XPS 8920, boots but power LED blinks 2,1

Question

my desktop (2017ish old xps 8920) is under my desk and i usually just reach for the power button to turn it on or bring it out of the sleep mode. today i notice the power button is blinking a 2,1 signal (2 amber/orange blinks closely apart, 1 amber/orange blink with a longer pause). knowledge base article (000145872) says it is a motherboard failure but the computer is running seemingly fine. should i be worrying about an imminent computer failure and is there any further test/action i should do? thanks!!

Chino de Oro · Answer

You can replace the coin cell battery as a maintenance task. Then clearing CMOS using jumper. If the blink code is persisted, run a pre-boot diagnostics via F12 for hardware issue. Refer to service manual for battery and jumper info.

https://www.dell.com/support/manuals/en-us/xps-8920-desktop/xps-8920-service%20manual/procedure?guid=guid-2a199221-cdfc-4dfe-b196-da786913bc78&lang=en-us

redxps630 · Answer

If it is just the power button blink but pc works fine (powers on and boots smoothly), I would hold on to service the pc right away. We typically suggest CMOs service when pc stops POST (blank monitor, no Dell logo). Chino’s suggestion is good maintenance. like a car dashboard service light blink signal it may just be a suggestion that you should schedule a maintenance service at the dealership or DIY at your convenience but not urgently.

(edited)

itsmrtang · Answer

thanks for both replies. today the computer stays with a solid white power light after it starts. will keep an eye on the computer and report back if anything changes.

redxps630 · Answer

yw. it is just like my Toyota, amber light blink one day but car works fine, next day light out.  some glitch.  no worries if pc works now but get your new CR2032 in stock if one day you really need it.

RoHe · Answer

You might also want to run the PSU BIST test, in case that blink code was caused by inadequate power to motherboard from a (possibly) weak PSU...

XPS Desktops

XPS 8920, boots but power LED blinks 2,1

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