Dell: How to collect tech-support / diagnostic bundle

By Sai Kiran Pandrala · reviewed by Sai Kiran Pandrala, Editor Last verified: 2026-05-30

What this guide covers

How to collect tech-support / diagnostic bundle in the Dell support ecosystem.

Resolve

1. Run show tech-support | save tftp://10.10.1.100/tech.txt.
2. Save output off the device via SCP / SFTP / TFTP.
3. Compress before uploading to support.
4. Attach to the case along with a clear symptom statement.

Useful URLs

• Support portal: https://www.dell.com/support
• Open a case: https://www.dell.com/support/incidents-online
• Bug / advisory search: https://www.dell.com/support/manuals/
• Knowledge base: https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc
• Security advisories (PSIRT): https://www.dell.com/support/security
• Warranty lookup: https://www.dell.com/support/productsmfe/en-us/

Frequently asked questions

Will this work on my specific Dell OS10 / SmartFabric OS version?

The procedure reflects current Dell OS10 / SmartFabric OS behaviour. Older releases may need minor syntax adjustments. use the CLI help (? or tab-completion) to verify.

Should I open a Dell ProSupport case immediately?

Open one if you suspect hardware failure or the symptom persists after a maintenance-window reload. Make sure your support entitlement is active first.

Where can I find the Dell official documentation?

https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc, search the product family + feature name.

Is this procedure safe in production?

Test in a lab or maintenance window first. Capture pre-change state so you can roll back.

Related guides

• All Dell fix guides → /dell/
• All vendor guides → /vendors/

Related fixes

Related guides worth a look while you sort this one out:

• Dell: How to check device end-of-life / end-of-support date
• Dell: How to check warranty / support contract status
• Dell: How to open a support case
• Dell: How to renew support contract
• Dell: third-party optics: compatibility and support risk
• Dell: How to transfer support to a new owner

References

• Dell support portal: https://www.dell.com/support
• Dell knowledge base: https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc
• Dell security advisories: https://www.dell.com/support/security
• Open a case: https://www.dell.com/support/incidents-online

Reference material, not professional advice. Validate against your specific Dell OS10 / SmartFabric OS version and test in a non-production environment before applying.

Identify

When this symptom shows up on a Dell: device, three patterns repeat:

1. Recent firmware update changed behavior: the symptom started within a week of an OTA push. Rollback or wait for the hotfix. 2. Environmental trigger, temperature, humidity, line voltage, network changes. Look at what changed in the environment. 3. Cumulative wear. components like batteries, gaskets, fans degrade over time. Replace the consumable rather than chasing a software fix.

Knowing which pattern applies saves time on the wrong fix.

Safety + preconditions

Before any work on a Dell: device:

• Unplug from mains for any internal-access procedure.
• Discharge stored energy (capacitors in PSUs, residual battery charge) per manufacturer guidance.
• Use ESD-safe handling for boards and modules, no carpet, no wool sleeves.
• Avoid moisture; never apply liquids near vents or connectors.
• If you smell smoke, see scorch marks, or feel uneven heat, stop and escalate.

Validate

On a Dell: device, the test is rarely "reboot and see". Use this list:

• Active reproduction: trigger the original failure path on purpose.
• Indirect reproduction: do an activity that would expose the same subsystem.
• Status indicator review: every LED / display / app status should be green.
• 24-hour soak: leave the device under normal load overnight; check the next morning.
• Telemetry check: review the device or app's diagnostic log for new error entries.

When to call Dell: support instead

Escalate if:

• The same symptom returns within 24 hours of a clean fix.
• You see physical damage (burn marks, swollen battery, cracked PCB).
• The device is in warranty and a hardware replacement is the cheaper outcome.
• Repair requires specialised tools you don't own (alignment jigs, calibration software).
• Following the official path keeps the warranty intact, which matters more than the time spent.

More frequently asked questions

Will this void my warranty?

Applying official firmware updates and following the user manual will not affect warranty. Opening sealed components, jumping safety circuits, or using third-party parts can void warranty in most jurisdictions.

What if my model isn't exactly the same revision?

Cross-check the model code on the rating plate against the manufacturer support page. Major firmware generations sometimes shift the menu path; the option is usually under a similarly-named section.

What if the fix returns after a reboot?

Persistent fault returns mean either: a hardware fault (escalate), a configuration that's being overwritten by a sync source (check cloud profiles), or a regression in a recent firmware update (rollback).

How long does this fix usually take?

Most users complete the steps in 20-45 minutes the first time, and 5-10 minutes on subsequent runs once the menu paths are familiar.

Does this affect other devices on my network?

Generally no. The procedure is local to this device. Network-side changes (firmware updates that affect TLS, SMB, or routing) are flagged explicitly in the steps.