How to Fix the 1 White and 3 Amber Flashes Error on Dell Laptops

Original discussion: 1 White and 3 amber flashes

Description of Issue

The 1 white and 3 amber flashes error code on Dell laptops typically indicates a CMOS battery failure. This small battery on the motherboard helps retain BIOS settings. When it fails, it can cause various issues, including this specific error code.

Common Causes

1. CMOS Battery Failure: The most frequent cause, indicating the need to replace the CMOS battery.
2. Memory Issues: Sometimes, this error can be related to memory detection problems.
3. Motherboard Issues: In rare cases, it might indicate a more serious issue with the motherboard.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Power Cycle the Laptop:
• Disconnect the power cord.
• Press and hold the power button for 30 seconds.
• Reconnect the power cord and try powering on the laptop.
2. Reseat or Replace the CMOS Battery:
• If comfortable, open the laptop and locate the CMOS battery.
• Reseat the battery or replace it with a new one.
• Refer to the laptop's manual for specific instructions.
  
  
3. Check Memory Modules:
• Ensure memory modules are properly seated.
• If possible, reseat or replace the memory modules.
  
  

Important: The 1 white and 3 amber flashes error might be commonly mistaken for other error codes related to memory issues. Reseating the memory modules can be a good troubleshooting step to rule out memory detection problems. Memory errors can sometimes present similar symptoms, so addressing this can help ensure a comprehensive approach to resolving the issue.

If the above steps don't resolve the issue, contact Dell support for further assistance.