Computer not starting up

He has: 131 posts

Joined: Jun 2008

Hi,
I have this problem with my parent's computer where it will suddenly not start up at all. It worked the day before this problem occurred. When it starts up it will beep over and over but not boot or power the usb connections however the fans do spin and the lights come on. I had the cover off and there is nothing that is unplugged. It is a Dell if that helps.

Model:
Dell inspiron 531S Desktop

The specs are:
2.0ghz Sempron
512 mb mem
80 gig hdd
dvd/cd rom drive
Windows Vista home basic

decibel.places's picture

He has: 1,494 posts

Joined: Jun 2008

Hi C,

Just found a good site, Let Me Google That for You

It could be loose/bad RAM

What is the beep code?

You could also try entering the boot menu on startup by holding the F2 key - or the F3 key to restore factory settings and you will lose all documents and programs you added.

[edit]

I know on my HP that when I enter the restore factory defaults utility, I have an option of rolling back to a restore point rather than wiping out all my docs and programs - had to do that once when I messed too much with my registry.

He has: 131 posts

Joined: Jun 2008

There is two beeps than a pause then two more beeps and so on. I'll check the memory slots.

Yep that was it, just switched slots and now it works just fine.

Thanks decibel.places

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