SupportAssist diagnostics
About this task
The SupportAssist diagnostics (previously known as ePSA diagnostics) performs a complete check of your hardware. The
SupportAssist diagnostics is embedded in the BIOS and is launched by it internally. The SupportAssist diagnostics provides a set
of options for particular devices or device groups. It allows you to:
● Run tests automatically or in an interactive mode.
● Repeat tests
● Display or save test results
● Run thorough tests to introduce additional test options and provide extra information about the failed device(s)
● View status messages that indicate if the tests are completed successfully
● View error messages that indicate if problems were encountered during the test
NOTE:
Some tests are meant for specific devices and require user interaction. Ensure that you are present in front of the
computer when the diagnostic tests are performed.
For more information, see
Built-in self-test (BIST)
M-BIST
M-BIST (Built In Self-Test) is the system board's built-in self-test diagnostics tool that improves the diagnostics accuracy of
system board embedded controller (EC) failures.
NOTE:
M-BIST can be manually initiated before POST (Power On Self Test).
How to run M-BIST
NOTE:
M-BIST must be initiated on the system from a power-off state either connected to AC power or with battery only.
1. Press and hold both the M key on the keyboard and the power button to initiate M-BIST.
2. With both the M key and the power button held down, the battery indicator LED may exhibit two states:
a. OFF: No fault detected with the system board
b. AMBER: Indicates a problem with the system board
3. If there is a failure with the system board, the battery status LED will flash one of the following error codes for 30 seconds:
Table 22. LED error codes
Blinking Pattern
Amber
2
2
1
2
4. If there is no failure with the system board, the LCD will cycle through the solid color screens described in the LCD-BIST
section for 30 seconds and then power off.
LCD Built-in Self Test (BIST)
Dell laptops have a built-in diagnostic tool that helps you determine if the screen abnormality you are experiencing is an inherent
problem with the LCD (screen) of the Dell laptop or with the video card (GPU) and PC settings.
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Troubleshooting
SupportAssist Pre-Boot System Performance
White
1
8
1
4
Check.
Possible Problem
CPU Failure
LCD Power Rail Failure
TPM Detection Failure
Unrecoverable SPI Failure