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    What tests to run and what to lookout for after receiving Dell

    Discussion in 'Dell' started by bmnotpls, Oct 21, 2006.

  1. bmnotpls

    bmnotpls Notebook Deity

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    A 'Sticky' about the list of things to lookout for after receiving the new Dell laptop would be nice. It would help us to check if our machine is fine or a lemon and need to be returned and replaced.
     
    bmnotpls, Oct 21, 2006
    #1
  2. Leshii

    Leshii Notebook Evangelist

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    Not sure if this really needs a sticky...

    1. Make sure there is no physical damage.
    2. Make sure that non-essential devices work (sd card reader, dvd-rw, network card/modem/wireless, etc - whatever you'll be using). For all other components you'll know that something is not right w/o checking specifically.
    3. Re-format and install a clean copy of Windows following the guide in this thread (takes time but you will be glad you did it later on)
    4. Install a temperature/fan control application like I8kfanGUI to check device temperatures and fan operation. Generally temperatures under 60C are normal. Video card maybe more (depending on your laptop configuration). Hard drive, chipset and memory should be less (under 45C).
     
    Leshii, Oct 21, 2006
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  3. Alvito

    Alvito Notebook Consultant

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    Do I use the windows disc they give me? or does their windows disc also install all the crap software i'm trying to get rid of?
     
    Alvito, Oct 21, 2006
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  4. spartanpredator

    spartanpredator Notebook Consultant

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    The windows disc will give you a clean install of XP. All the bloatware is installed by Dell.
     
    spartanpredator, Oct 21, 2006
    #4