Manual Title Variable
4–5
BIOS Overview
Beep Codes and Error Messages
If the computer powers on but does not start properly, it attempts to report the error in two ways:
■
It emits a modulated audio signal followed by one or more distinct beeps—this is preboot
diagnostics.
■
It displays an error message on the screen – this is a BIOS error.
Pre-Boot Audio Signal and Beeps
Preboot diagnostics is performed by a micro-controller on the system board, which generates
audio signals when an error is encountered. The pre-boot audio signal can be used to identify the
hardware component that needs troubleshooting or replacement:
The modulated audio signal can be interpreted by a support provider equipped with the
Virtual Call Assistant. (For more information about the Virtual Call Assistant, refer to
the
Virtual Call Assistant User’s Guide,
available at
http://www.compaq.com/support.
)
Beeps Issue/Meaning
Resolution
✎
When the power switch is depressed, to activate the computer and there are no faults found, the
computer will start up with no unusual or special sounds. If a fault is found during the start-up,
the computer will generate a series of ringing tones followed by the correct number of beeps
shown in this table that correspond to the fault found.
1
Processor fault
1. Check that processor and heatsink ar properly installed.
2. Replace processor
2
Power supply overload
1. Disconnect all external devices and restart the computer.
If the computer starts correctly, add devices,
one-at-a-time until the overload situation is achieved and
the faulty device is identified.
2. If the computer does not start, disconnect the internal
drives and start the computer. If the computer starts
correctly, add devices, one-at-a-time until the overload
situation is achieved and the faulty device is identified.
3
Memory error
1. Verify that memory modules are properly installed in the
computer.
2. Check that memory modules are the design specified by
Compaq.
3. Try replacing memory modules with other known good
modules.
4
Graphics solution error Replace the system board.
5
Plug and Play
initialization error
Replace the system board.
6
Corrupted ROM BIOS
Reflash the ROM BIOS.
7
Defective system board Replace the system board.
