Desktop PC will not boot up [Resolved]
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- Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
Desktop PC will not boot up [Resolved]
06-01-2009 9:23 AM
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If anyone has any similar experience who can offer advice I would be most grateful.
Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
06-01-2009 9:37 AM
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1 long, 2 short beeps Display adapter problem (MDA, CGA)
1 long, 3 short beeps Enhanced Graphics Adapter (EGA)
3 long beeps 3270 keyboard card
Pheonix code
1-3-3 You'll need to replace the motherboard.
O dear
Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
06-01-2009 10:00 AM
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I'll try some more obvious checks of connections, etc. this evening, and a more thorough read of the manuals. Can you tell me where you got your info on the beep codes, and what is the significance of Phoenix code (which I've never heard of before).
If its the motherboard then rather than risk spending money on a replacement motherboard, given the age of the machine and my lack of experience I will probably go out and buy a new desktop. PSU failed a year ago and was replaced, memory upgrade was ordered last weekend and arrived in the post this morning (hopefully I can get a refund).
Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
06-01-2009 10:31 AM
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I assume you can't get into the BIOS to find out what one you have. In which case just google for BIOS beep codes to see if you find any matches.
Try removing things like memory and graphics card (if it's not on-board) and see if the beep codes change - you should get a code saying no memory etc.
If the beep codes still stay the same with memory & graphics removed (and any other PCI/ISA cards removed) and nothing else connected to the mobo except the power connectors then it sounds like it's terminal
Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
06-01-2009 12:00 PM
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A google on BIOS beep codes comes up with only one manufacturer (Phoenix) which matches the 1-3-3-1 code that my PC gives out. The explanation is simply given as "28 Autosize DRAM", and I haven't a clue what this means.
Sounds like I might have to open up the case and make sure memory module and graphics card (if present) is properly seated. I want to get the PC booted up before I add the new memory, since once the packaging is opened I won't be able to return it for a refund.
Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
06-01-2009 12:08 PM
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Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
06-01-2009 12:20 PM
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Busy night ahead.
Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
06-01-2009 1:07 PM
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To argue with someone who has renounced the use of reason is like administering medicine to the dead - Thomas Paine
Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
06-01-2009 1:54 PM
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The error refers to the BIOS trying to detect and size the DRAM so that could indicate a badly seated ram modules, a bad ram module or a bad mobo.
If you intend to remove any components, make sure you remove the power cable completely as there is still 5V standby power to the mobo when the system is switched off. Also make sure you earth yourself by touching the metal case before touching any ram modules.
Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
07-01-2009 8:46 AM
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Reports of my PC's demise appear to have been overstated.
I thought I would try to boot up the machine last night to confirm the number of beeps - guess what, it all worked normally. So I decided to do a full backup of personal data and full virus/spyware scan for good measure. By the time that was completed, I did a quick check of monitor connections, opened up the case and removed the memory module and put it back . Powered back up, everything worked fine, I was so pleased I went to the pub - forgetting to put in the extra memory I had bought!
Thanks to all for the helpful advice, if it happens again I know what to try and where to get further help if needed.
Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
07-01-2009 10:31 AM
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My sister's e-machine will sometimes hang on the big 'e' splash screen when she powers that up. I've never been able to find out what causes it.
Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
08-01-2009 8:28 AM
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Quote from: StickyMick Chip creep, maybe?
Never heard of this before, but from my engineering background I'm guessing this could be some sort of creep ratchetting effect due to temperature cycling, which affects connections between motherboard and installed components.
However, the same fault occured this morning, with the same 1-3-3-1 beep code. Manuals confirm the BIOS is Phoenix.
Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
08-01-2009 10:09 AM
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Have you got the new RAM installed yet? If yes, try removing the old module and placing the new one in it's place on it's own. If you haven't already tried that.
Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
08-01-2009 11:08 PM
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Re: Desktop PC will not boot up
09-01-2009 10:09 AM
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Edited by maranello - 15/01/09 15:00. Numerous power ups have passed with no problems since the last thorough clean of the memory slot and contacts on the 256MB module. I have learned a lot about BIOS codes thanks to the advice in this thread, and gained a bit more confidence at taking the cover off. Might think about installing an additional drive as a live backup device. Not so sure about taking the PC out for a drive in order to make it work better, although if there is a meal and a few drinks included this usually compensates for neglecting my wife whilst I take over the study and leave PC bits and tools all over the place.
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