HP pavilion Series, Reference Manual

Page: 112 / 175

Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Troubleshooting Your Computer
112 Reference Guide
Hard disk drive problems
If the computer’s hard drive doesn’t spin
•
Make sure the computer has power. If necessary, connect the AC adapter, and make
sure it is fully plugged into a power source and into the rear of the computer.
•
Remove and reinsert the hard drive—see “To replace the hard disk drive” on
page 102.
If the hard disk makes a buzzing or whining noise
•
Back up the drive immediately.
•
See whether the noise is coming from elsewhere, such as the fan or a PC Card drive.
If files are corrupted
•
For Windows 98, run the Scandisk surface scan to check the hard disk. From the Start
menu, click Programs, Accessories, System Tools, Scandisk.
•
For Windows 2000 or XP, open My Computer, select the disk you want to scan, click
File, Properties, and use the Tools tab.
•
Run the virus-scanning program—see “To protect against viruses” on page 43.
•
Test the hard disk drive with the e-Diagtools diagnostics— see “Testing the
Hardware” on page 129.
•
If necessary, format the hard disk and reinstall the original factory software—see “To
recover the factory installation of your hard disk” on page 138.
Heat problems
Keep in mind that your computer normally gets warm during routine operation. Charging
the battery and running games and other programs that drive CPU usage toward 100%
can further increase the computer’s temperature.
If the computer gets abnormally hot
•
Always set the computer on a flat, firm surface, so that air can flow freely around and
underneath it.
•
Make sure the air vent on the left side of the computer is clear.
•
Make sure the fan is working properly. If needed, test the fan’s operation—see
“Testing the Hardware” on page 129.