Computer issue(fails to boot)...

[Soeru]

So I finally got my hands on an electrical voltage converter so I can use my European comp over here. I set it all up and turn my comp on, only to hear it load and then make a long beep. This beep lasts a few seconds and pauses for about 1 or 2 seconds in between each beep. Nothing appears on the monitor, and the keyboard is plugged in.

I popped the case open and checked/untangled some IDE cables and tried it again, but still nothing. It's slightly dusty on the inside, but it has worked on me even in dirtier conditions, so that's not the issue.

What could the problem possibly be? I would really appreciate some help, I've never had such a serious hardware issue. Thanks in advance.

[Borman]

Take the ram out and resinsert it.

[GODJonez]

If you know the model and constructor of the motherboard, google it with keywords beep signals. I once found a site that had many motherboards with all their beep codes, but can't remember or find it anymore.

[Myst]

knowing the beeps is the key. The type of beeps tells you what the problem is. but it varies per BIOS.

The exact meaning of the beep codes depends on the type and version of BIOS that you have. The three most popular types of BIOS are those made by Award, American Megatrends (AMI) and Phoenix

sounds like you have a 1-beeper there. (or a long beep)

for AMI read this http://www.pcguide.com/ts/x/sys/beep/amiB1-c.html lotsa text and possible solution, including the possibilty of RAM like Borman suggested

for Award http://www.pcguide.com/ts/x/sys/beep/award1-c.html (also suggests the RAM)

for Phoenix it wasn't very detailed. I hope you don't have one
http://www.pcguide.com/ts/x/sys/beep...x/index-c.html

anyways it does sound like a RAM problem.
If taking the ram out and resinserting it doesn't help, buy new RAM. luckily those are the lesser expensive parts of a PC

[Norgus]

Before you try buying new stuff, try re-inserting everything starting with the stupidly simple stuff (keyboard, monitor, graphics card etc)

[Soeru]

Heh, thanks, I'll try re-attaching the RAM and gfx card. Unfortunately, the electrical transformer I got is a piece of shit, and all three replacement fuses I got with it burned out in less than an hour. I'm mailing it back for a replacement(and possibly, if it happens again: my cash back, and I'll have to look for another). So I won't be able to try this until I get a transformer back, but I'll keep it in mind, thanks a lot. I can always steal the RAM from this comp if mine is really fucked up.


Btw, it's a Microstar comp/mobo. I don't remember what BIOS I had, I haven't used the mofo in 6 or 7 months...

[rpgseeker]

try checking your RAM speed and read your motherboard manual...that come with it...check what is the requirement....

[Paul Miller]

Resetting the BIOS might be a good idea, if you have the mobo manual, it will tell you where the jumper is for that, or you can just remove the battery for a while.

[Ultimate X]

instead of the converter cant u get a new power supply

[Soeru]

instead of the converter cant u get a new power supply

I thought of that, but they're pretty expensive, and I don't want to risk blowing my motherboard up because it's not compatible or something... Installing them is a bitch too.

Well, I'm mailing that shit back today. Hopefully I'll get my replacement soon.

Edit: My parts are fine, the comp is just how I left it working a few months ago. I'll just have to reattach the RAM/gfx card...