Hi FarmerFred,

We will have to perform the ‘LCD BIST’ (Built in Self-test) on the computer. Please follow the steps mentioned below to run the “LCD BIST’.

1. Turn of the computer.
2. Press and hold down the ‘D’ key on the keyboard and press the Power button.
3. You will see different colors on the LCD screen. Please check if the issue reoccurs on the screen.

In addition, please connect the system to an external monitor and check if the issue reoccurs.

Also, please boot into the BIOS screen (F2 during boot up) and check if you are facing the flickering on the BIOS screen.

I did not notice any flickering during the "'LCD BIST.'  While I was in BIOS I did not see any flickering as well.  Connecting the laptop to an external monitor I had no flickering on the second monitor or on the dell computer.  All this was done on battery power.

The screen only flickers once every ten seconds or so whenever I am on battery power and the screen's brightness is turned down to middle to lowest setting.

Hi FarmerFred,

I would suggest you to update the BIOS on the system. Please enter your service tag # on the link below, select the OS, then download the BIOS from BIOS section onto the system and install it.

http://dell.to/18r60nI

Also, please connect a known good AC adapter on the system to check if issue reoccurs.

On mine the screen only flickers when on battery mode... I'm guessing it's got something to do with the laptop going into power saver mode and turning the screen brightness down.  If you adjust the screen brightness  up it should go away.

I shouldn't have to do that. I want the screen brightness low while in class. It doesn't matter. I returned the second laptop that had the same problem as the first and got my money back. I'll be avoiding dell products from here on out.

I purchased the same machine and I am having the same issue.  I have read other threads saying that the issue is with Dell Intelligent Display, but I have disabled that option and the issue persists.  I have also disabled all other related battery saving display options, including Dell Extended Battery Life, Intel Display Power Saving Technology, and Intel Extended Battery Life for Gaming.  None of these options have resolved the issue.  Any advice is appreciated or else I will have to return my machine as well.

You have to update BIOS and Video Card drivers! I had the same problem and that works for me. Ask dell if you dont know how to do it