[Ham-Computers] RE: Dell Dimension 4700 problem.

[Hsu, Aaron (NBC Universal)]

Ken,

It sounds like either the firmware is corrupted or the drive has gone south.  Yes, the 6 blinks is most likely an error message, but without knowing the model of the drive, it's hard to determine exactly what the message means.

If you can determine the manufacturer and model of the drive (either via Windows Device Manager, or, pop the case open), you can then see if Dell has a firmware update for the drive.  There are also other sources for firmware, but Dell is the first place you should look as it's a Dell system.

Here's a thought...does the system boot from CD/DVD media?  For example, if a WinXP installation CD is inserted prior to boot, does the system boot from the CD/DVD?  Due to the "quick boot" option of Dell systems, you may need to insert the CD/DVD and then reboot the system so it can detect the media prior to boot.  If the system boots to the CD/DVD, then it's not a hardware problem.

Good luck and Happy 4th!

  - Aaron, NN6O


-----Original Message-----
Sent: Tuesday, July 03, 2007 4:17 PM
Subject: [Ham-Computers] Dell Dimension 4700 problem.

Hi Fellows,

My DVD drive on my Dell has not worked for some time.  When I boot up, the DVD drive light flickers like normal boot up but then blinks 6 positive blinks about 1/2 second apart.  Is this some kind of error signal? If so, does anyone know what the signal means?

I have hesitated calling Dell because almost always get some yokel in Indonesia or India or some foreign place who wants you to go thru simple simon tests on and on until you get thoroughly disgusted and hang up. That's what they want - they cannot diagnose just make you disgusted with the simple simon krappp until you hang up!

Any info appreciated!
Take care,

Ken   N5CM