Computer Fails to start up

buzzzsaw · 03-27-2008, 12:20 AM

I have a problem with a computer, where when I turn the computer on, it lights up, but doesn't make any other sounds. It acts like there is no processor, and aside from that being an issue, which is not as I checked, I'm not sure what else would cause the computer to act in that manner.

The computer is a Dell P4 2.66 processor running windows xp professional with on-board audio and video.

What I am looking for is information on how to use a meter, and literature on the different resistances a motherboard should have to be able to find a shorted out circuit.

I realize that the best solution would probably be to get a new computer, but the computer isn't mine, and I would like to be able to tell the person what is exactly wrong with it, whether someone dropped something metallic inside the computer (which is what I think happened), or if the processor is just fried.

quiktek · 03-27-2008, 12:32 AM

What exactly lights up when you turn it on??

buzzzsaw · 03-27-2008, 12:34 AM

The power light on front of the computer. It makes no noise except for the fan on the power supply running.

quiktek · 03-27-2008, 12:49 AM

Change your power supply, it's probably fried.

buzzzsaw · 03-27-2008, 02:38 AM

Ok, I checked the voltage to the wires on the power supply, and all the wires are sending out the voltage listed on the powersupply with the exceptions of the ground wires.

I did notice that some of the capacitors are well rounded on top, which also may be a problem, but I would like to be able to rule out the processor without having to remove the processor, finding another motherboard to plug it into, and testing it that way.

03-27-2008, 12:20 AM	#1 (permalink)
buzzzsaw New Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Posts: 3	Computer Fails to start up I have a problem with a computer, where when I turn the computer on, it lights up, but doesn't make any other sounds. It acts like there is no processor, and aside from that being an issue, which is not as I checked, I'm not sure what else would cause the computer to act in that manner. The computer is a Dell P4 2.66 processor running windows xp professional with on-board audio and video. What I am looking for is information on how to use a meter, and literature on the different resistances a motherboard should have to be able to find a shorted out circuit. I realize that the best solution would probably be to get a new computer, but the computer isn't mine, and I would like to be able to tell the person what is exactly wrong with it, whether someone dropped something metallic inside the computer (which is what I think happened), or if the processor is just fried.

Thread Tools
Show Printable Version Email this Page
Display Modes
Linear Mode Switch to Hybrid Mode Switch to Threaded Mode

Similar Threads
Thread	Thread Starter	Forum	Replies	Last Post
Old computer (1999') won't start	remember	Desktop Computers	12	01-05-2008 04:58 AM
Computer will not start	amsterdamn	General Computer Chat	2	02-18-2007 05:35 PM
Need PROFESSIONAL help on buying a new computer.	audiobahn1000	Desktop Computers	21	08-21-2006 11:19 PM
can anybody help me in fixing errors......plssssss	krissonhead	Computer Security	31	05-25-2006 04:55 PM
want new computer - where to start	kbkids	Desktop Computers	8	12-28-2004 10:44 PM

03-27-2008, 12:32 AM	#2 (permalink)
quiktek Bronze Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 79	What exactly lights up when you turn it on??

03-27-2008, 12:34 AM	#3 (permalink)
buzzzsaw New Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Posts: 3	The power light on front of the computer. It makes no noise except for the fan on the power supply running.

03-27-2008, 12:49 AM	#4 (permalink)
quiktek Bronze Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 79	Change your power supply, it's probably fried.

03-27-2008, 02:38 AM	#5 (permalink)
buzzzsaw New Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Posts: 3	Ok, I checked the voltage to the wires on the power supply, and all the wires are sending out the voltage listed on the powersupply with the exceptions of the ground wires. I did notice that some of the capacitors are well rounded on top, which also may be a problem, but I would like to be able to rule out the processor without having to remove the processor, finding another motherboard to plug it into, and testing it that way.