Dell Latitude 7230 (PCR / ePCR) – Power and Charging Troubleshooting

Summary

This step-by-step guide helps technical staff diagnose basic power and charging issues on Dell Latitude 7230 rugged tablets used in Fire Apparatus. Follow each step in order before escalating.

Who This Article Is For

Technical staff supporting Fire Department and Public Safety field devices.

Step 1 — Try a Proper Power-On

Action: Press and hold the tablet’s power button for 5–10 seconds. A quick tap may not trigger startup.

Look for: Any screen activity or the power/indicator light. If nothing happens, continue to Step 2.

Power button and indicator light

Step 2 — Check the Power Source

Action: Verify the tablet’s power supply—either LIND or Dell—is securely connected to both the vehicle outlet and the device. Inspect cables for damage.

• If the supply’s indicator light is off, it may not be receiving vehicle power.

• If the light is on but the tablet won’t charge, continue to Step 3.

LIND power supply

Dell power supply

If the vehicle is a pickup/SUV (Rescue units): check the 12V LIND plug

These vehicles often use a LIND inverter with a 12V plug into a cigarette-style port on the center console.

• Make sure the plug is firmly seated in the 12V port.

• Confirm the plug’s green indicator light is on (port is supplying power).

• If the light is off, reseat the plug or try a different 12V port if available.

12V LIND plug connection with green power light

Step 3 — Test the Power Supply Output

Action: Use the County-provided mobile phone in the apparatus. Plug it into the USB output on the LIND/Dell power supply.

• Phone charges normally: The power supply likely works; continue to Step 4.

• No or intermittent charge: Suspect the power supply or vehicle connection.

Step 4 — Inspect the Tablet’s USB-C Port

Action: Examine the tablet’s USB-C port for bent pins, debris, or looseness.

• No visible damage: Try a known-good adapter/cable and retest.

• Visible damage: Replace the device or send for repair.

No visible damage to port

Visible damage to port

Step 5 — Determine Responsibility & Next Steps

• LIND power supply / vehicle connection issue: Refer to Resource Management or Fleet.

• Tablet issue (no power with known-good adapter or visible port damage): Handled by ITS for repair or replacement. (The IT Service Desk will escalate to EUS.)

This guide is a field reference and does not replace standard EUS diagnostics or manufacturer warranty processes.

Contact and Support

For questions or updates regarding this article, contact the IT Service Desk.