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September 10th, 2024 02:26

XPS 17 9700 unable to access one-time bios or boot setup

XPS 17 9700

XPS 17 9700

I have the above problem with my XPS 17 9700. If I don't press either F2 or F12 it just sticks at the Dell logo screen. 

I have tried the following steps in order to solve the problem :

1. RTC reset (same as removing the CMOS battery in older laptops). Makes no difference. 

2. Built in diagnostic check (press Fn key whilst turning on). This flashes up several different colour screens and eventually goes to the Dell logo where it sticks.

3. BIOS recovery (ctrl+esc whilst powering on). This only gives me two options 1, flash the existing BIOS or 2, reset to defaults. Neither option appears to do anything.

I'm at a bit of a loss what to do now, obviously there is power, the fans, screen and keyboard all work correctly. 

1 Rookie

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3 Posts

September 11th, 2024 19:27

I found it was a problem with the SSD that came with the laptop. I replaced it with a new one and I have managed to get it to boot and install Windows.


I thought I'd try using the original SSD as a 2nd drive (having assumed it was corrupt partitioning causing the problems) thinking the laptop would boot normally off the new SSD allowing me to format the original one. However this took me back to square one.

All working now, thanks for the help and advice, it was much appreciated. 

8 Wizard

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6K Posts

September 10th, 2024 04:03

Perform step 3 again but with a BIOS recovery image on a USB stick.

To rule out F key malfunction, connect a USB keyboard and keep on spamming F2 or F12 during boot up.

2 Intern

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225 Posts

September 10th, 2024 07:57

When you are stuck at the logo interface, you need to try to see if you can enter the BIOS. If you cannot enter, it is recommended to unplug the hard drive and restart the computer to observe. If you can pass the logo after unplugging the hard drive, it can basically be considered that the hard drive is faulty.

1 Rookie

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4 Posts

September 10th, 2024 08:58

It sounds like you've already tried some good troubleshooting steps for your Dell XPS 17 9700, but unfortunately, the issue still persists. Here are a few more suggestions that might help resolve the problem:

  1. Clear CMOS via Motherboard Jumper: Since the RTC reset did not help, try locating the CMOS jumper on the motherboard and reset it that way. Some Dell laptops may have this feature, and it could help with clearing any stuck BIOS settings.

  2. Attempt an External BIOS Recovery (USB Method):

    • Download the latest BIOS for the XPS 17 9700 from Dell’s support page using another computer.
    • Create a bootable USB drive and copy the BIOS file onto it.
    • Use the BIOS recovery feature again (Ctrl + Esc while powering on), but this time, use the USB drive to attempt a BIOS reflash.
  3. Check for Hardware Issues:

    • Disconnect all external peripherals (including USB devices, docks, etc.) and try booting again.
    • If possible, try removing the RAM and then reseating it or testing with one stick at a time.
    • Check the SSD or storage device connections inside the laptop.
  4. Try a Hard Reset:

    • Disconnect the charger and remove the battery if possible.
    • Hold down the power button for 15-30 seconds to discharge any residual power.
    • Reconnect the battery and power up the device again.
  5. Dell Support Assistance: If these steps still don't work, it could be a more significant issue, such as a corrupted BIOS that may require professional repair. Dell support may need to perform a more in-depth hardware analysis or a motherboard replacement if it’s under warranty.

1 Rookie

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3 Posts

September 10th, 2024 13:05

@kubet6886​ I'll try steps 2 then 4. I'll need to purchase a usb-c drive as I only have usb-a ones that need to be connected via a usb hub (and are not recognised by the BIOS recovery).

Once done I'll post back with my results. 

1 Rookie

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4 Posts

September 10th, 2024 15:51

I'm experiencing the exact same issues with an XPS 13 9310 (after a firmware update)

10 Elder

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44.2K Posts

September 10th, 2024 19:14

@Charlemagne Galloway  - You may need to replace the motherboard battery, not just clear BIOS, before going further...

8 Wizard

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6K Posts

September 11th, 2024 06:36

The XPS 9700 does not have a separate CMOS battery.  An RTC reset was sufficient.

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