Re: computer won't boot

Thanks for your reply, you provided me with some information I wasn't aware
of, concerning the fans.
--
sandy j


"GHalleck" wrote:


sandy j wrote:

I'm using windows xp prof, I never had anything like this happen to me
before on any other Windows operating system or any other monitor/computer.
I was at my desktop, and the system started shutting down. The shut down
got hung up, so I pushed the reset button, and the system started to reboot
(I never got back to my desktop), and hanging up, again I pushed the reset
button. One of the times I pushed the reset button, I heard 3 error beeps (1
long 2 short). I looked the beep error up, and the documentation indicated
it might be the graphics/video card. I checked with the person I got the pc
from to find out how old the card is, and was told it is only a couple of
years old.
The monitor screen starts up with a black background and a "monitor self
test" box that moves around the screen. The light on the monitor is green
when I first start (plug in the CPU) and then turns amber. I tried the
monitor
on another computer and the monitor worked fine.
The CPU's power light comes on and there is also a yellow light that is lit
(but since I can't power down normally, I'm unplugging the CPU). When I
push the power button (plug the CPU in) the only thing I can hear are the
fans. I probably only had the computer on for 1/2 hour and there are 4
cooling fans in the case so I don't believe the computer is overheating.

End result now the system won't reboot, and it seems as though there's no
connection between the CPU and the monitor. Can this CPU be saved and/or
the info on my hard drive? I want to do as much trouble shooting as
possible, before invest in a new graphics/video card or take it to one of
those expensive
technicians. Please Help
Thanks

The obvious problem seems to be the video card and it really does not
matter just how old it currently is. Test by borrowing a video card,
install it and turn on the computer. If the video card is the problem,
then replace it. Otherwise, depending on your technical knowledge, some
trouble-shooting by a computer shop may be needed.

(And, BTW, one cannot rely on the chassis fans to determine whether or
not the CPU is being adequately cooled. The CPU typically has its own
fan (or ventilation system) to keep it cool and if the CPU overheats,
it will promptly be shut down...hopefully in time.

.

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