Help fixing computer

saulat_99

New Member
Not sure where to post this but it sounds like a hardware issue to me, maybe a motherboard problem.

My brother bought a computer off ebay a few weeks ago with windows and several programs preinstalled. He doesn't think it is a pirate windows 7 because he can update it. He has a recovery disc but no windows disc. His problem started 2-3 days ago. He says that if he restarts from the start button the monitor shuts off while the tower stays on and he gets a beep every 10-15 seconds. Says that even on a hard reset it starts up beeping with no monitor feed. If he flips the main power switch in the back off then on it will start up. The problem also occurs if he leaves the computer running, perhaps when it goes to idle. He just tested it and it took ~15 minutes to happen. Anyone know what may be wrong? Told him to find the MOBO and BIOS so I can post them here.

He has 4GB patriot extreme RAM (DDR2 I think)
Processor - AMD quad core not sure the model
Graphics card - ATI HD 4200
Mobo - Will post if he can find out
 
Sounds like it may be an intermittent memory issue. Make sure all he sticks are seated properly, then try running memtest.
 
The seller replied to my brother and said it sounds like a motherboard issue. He said my brother can send it back and he will fix it under the warrenty for free. Also said he could be ana ss and say go to a computer store but this would be the best support he can give. Sounds like my brother should have the warrenty with the hardware. Think it is just someone that builds to order and sells on ebay.
 
He will send the computer back tomorrow to have it fixed if he does not come up with a fix sooner. Here is the email correspondence between him and the seller if it helps.

Seller
Open up the clear side cover...just x2 screws. disconnect the fan... and inspect everything. Take out the memory sticks and "EVENLY PUT THEM BACK IN USING YOUR THUMBS ON BOTH SIDES" and see how everything runs. Also, go the the "support" folder and run some tests.

For
Memory Test...when given the option type in "1000" and run the test
Graphics....open it up and click "Scan for artifacts"
For the processor....do the maximum heat option...I think the middle one

Brother
I checked the RAM and then ran the memory test. It went for 5-7 min before the monitor went off. Ran the graphics test and saw a cube turn for 5 seconds then it did the same. Got it restarted again and tried the processor speed test and the monitor went off again as soon as I tried to open it followed by the same beeping while the tower stayed on.

Seller
At this point would you like to return it and get it fixed. You ship it to me...labor for free and I'll ship it back for free. This is the best support I can do. Everything is warranted... technically. I could be a ass and tell you to take it to a computer store but it's best to endure a one time shipping and a two week delay.

Tell me what you think and sorry for your troubles.
The tests shows me that there is a display problem.... probably a new motherboard is needed.
 
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