Problems with Dimension C521

Can anyone even see me???!?!??

Hello,

I see you.

Ask away, and I will try to help. I know that you have a C521 system but don't know what version of Windows you use, or anything about your specs or problem. Until you reply, I will add a link to the C521 troubleshooting page just in case it might help.

Can I ask? How long did it take to post this, after you first found this site? :emotion-31:

And, could you please go here and offer your input? :emotion-21: :emotion-45:

Hello again,

No I don't find your better description yet. Now if you keep using 'this' thread I can help.

Ask your question here again please?

Thanks Darrell -  I have posted a better description.  Can you find it?  Also I did vote for your suggestion.  I am shocked at how cumbersome this place is to navigate.  Not user-friendly at all.  Thanks for responding.

Deb

Ok - When I turned on the computer today, I noticed the fan running much longer and even louder than normal.  I thought this was odd - then a blank/black screen came up.  That was it.  No normal startup etc.  When I went to hit the power button, it would not go "off".  It would just stay lit.  I think unplugged it, gave it a few and tried starting it up again.  This time it started as normal - no problems.  However, after being on for about 20 minutes, the screen went blank/black once again.  Again, could not power it off.  I repeated the steps I did earlier, and once again everything started without a hitch.  I have been on now for over 4 hours with no problems or interruptions.  I have windows xp.  Also, I noted this second time around that it gave me a date of January 2003?!  I have printed the C521 troubleshooting that you suggested and will look at the system and diagnostic lights the next time I power up.  Just wondering if you have any other input or suggestions as to what the problem may be?  Thanks for your time and help.

Deb

Hello again,

Unplug the system, and open it up.

Unplug and then reconnect every cable. Remove and replace each memory chip and add in card. While you are inside I suggest that you use a can of computer grade compressed air to clean out the system. Hold any fan blade that you clean so as to not over speed it.

Since the date has been reset, the motherboard battery may be dying or have come loose. Check it and replace if needed. They only cost a few bucks at many stores including Walmart type stores. The number is on the battery.

Once you are done, start the system into the setup BIOS settings as described in the links I posted. Reset the time, save and reboot.

Report back here with your results, and any other questions. :emotion-21:

debzeb

The directions for removing and replacing the parts inside the c521 are HERE.

If you replace the battery, a 3-V CR2032 lithium coin cell is needed, this can be purchased from a Radio Shack, WalMart, or most pharmacies, etc.

To enter the system setup, turn on (or restart) your computer and when the blue DELL logo appears, press F2 immediately.

See HERE

Bev.

I have never replaced any memory chip or add in card before in my 37 and a half years of life.  Not to be blonde here, (which to my defense I am btw) :)  is it just something I can pull out and put back in??  Also, how will I know if the motherboard battery is dying and needs replacing just by looking at it??  Finally, I do not know how to start the system into the setup BIOS.  The only links I thought I saw and the one I  printed out was the Troubleshooting C521 Service Manual.  I want to learn something here about all these things I am (gulp) clueless about.  Please be patient and can you give me some guidance here?  Thanks a bunch.

Lost in Ohio (aka debzeb)