LED error code problem.

Question

Hi all, this is my first post here so be gentle. ^_^ I have been fixing PC's and laptops for a few years quite succesfully but this is winning so need a Dell tech for help. The laptop in question is; Dell Inspiron 1501 Model number:- PP23LA Service tag:- <ADMIN NOTE: Service tag removed per privacy policy> It's way out of warranty so the chap asked what I could do with it as money is tight. The LED error code is solid Caps lock and flashing Scroll lock which I can find no info on and I can't believe no one in the Google universe has come across. The power is OK, the fan is OK, the modem is OK, the Wi-Fi card is OK. I've swapped out the RAM modules and the HDD. I've changed the button cell for the BIOS. I've done a complete strip-down and clean. I've reapplied TIM to the CPU and a new thermal pad to the GPU(onboard). I've done the power reset thingy(?). I've hooked the lappy to a external monitor and keyboard with no joy. Any one out there KNOW what this error code is for please? Thanks, Jusyn.

DELL-Babita S · Accepted Answer

Hi Jusyn,

Welcome to Dell Community Forum.

The solid Caps Lock and flashing Scroll Lock LED error code is indicative of USB initialization failure.

You need to remove any USB devices (which you may have already done since you have removed several internal hardware components previously) or replace the system board.

The link below may be helpful:

Notebooks cannot complete POST: http://dell.to/10NjwN5

Please reply if you have further queries.

Thanks and regards,
Babita S
#iworkforDell

For easy access to drivers, manuals and product updates, please visit our Support Site .

ejn63 · Answer

Is the num lock solid on, off or flashing?

Jux_Zeil · Answer

@ejn63 - Number lock LED is off.

@ DELL-Babita S - Thanks for the pointer. Had a feeling it might be that, and yes, all devices have been removed(including the internal devices possibly using the USB controller). But why does the laptop not start just because the USB fault? I've had desktop Mobos work just fine when a USB IC chip has failed. Could you give me any info on the chip used please as I might try to replace it from a donor unit?

ejn63 · Answer

The USB controller is integrated into the chipset - you can't replace that chip.  If you want to fix the system you'll need a replacement mainboard. www.parts-people.com/index.php

Jux_Zeil · Answer

QFN soldering job then?

Jux_Zeil · Answer

@jn63 - Even the host controller chips? As you yourself said, i's a chipset(more than one). ATI Southbridge is the chip under the Wi-Fi card I take it?

ejn63 · Answer

It is part of the southbridge yes - I suppose if you can find the chip and have the equipment, you can change it.  It's certainly not doable with a handheld soldering iron though.  It may not even be the chip that's bad - could be a cold solder joint somewhere.

ejn63 · Answer

Yes.  The chips are often bonded to the board with adhesive as well - the chance of successfully replacing a chip that was initially soldered by machine is not high.

Jux_Zeil · Answer

@enj63 - Cheers. Thanks for the extra help.

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