Can't see BIOS or Safe Mode Options

[sheemone00]

When I boot my computer and I push DEL to enter the BIOS, but when I do, the screen just turns black (more like it's off) and I can't see it.

I'm pretty sure I'm actually in the BIOS, since a similar thing happens when I push F8 to get into Safe Mode.

I push F8, push down couple times and ENTER and Windows will load up in Safe Mode.

Some Specs:

Mobo: Soltek SL-K8AN2E-GR
CPU: AMD 64 2800
Video: ATI 9700 Pro
RAM: Mushkin 3300 (512x2)
HDD: IBM Deskstar

 

[dfuze]

Does it say on the screen to press delete? I've heard some mobo manufacturers
require a different key press to enter bios. I'm not sure about soltek.

 

[sheemone00]

Yes, it does say DEL on the bottom.

 

[imported_Kiwi]

Before getting too deeply into the symptoms, there is one thing to make sure of, first. Only the newest chip sets and MB designs can automatically use USB (and the ones that can do so might not even HAVE any ps/2 ports). If this applies in your case, you might do better when accessing the BIOS, to temporarily "borrow" a PS2 keyboard from an older PC.

That's half of the deal. The other half is to look out for the oddity called "FN Lock" that is a so-called "feature" on some MS keyboards, and makes using the F8 rather difficult (no matter what port the keyboard is attached to!)


:frown:

 

[sheemone00]

The keyboard uses the PS2 port and there is not "FN Lock" feature on the keyboard.

The keyboard functions perfectly fine, since I can push F8 and boot into safe mode just fine. The problem is I can't see the menu where I choose the Normal Mode, Safe Mode, Safe Mode w/ Networking, etc... after I push F8. Same with the BIOS.

 

[boomerang]

I'd reset the CMOS as a first step.

 

[sheemone00]

I cleared my CMOS, but the same problem is occuring.

Here is a general scheme of what happens:

1. I turn on computer
2. I can hear the system boot-up, but I can't see anything on my monitor. (shows the no signal sign)
3. My monitor starts "working" (I can see what's going on) once it hits the WinXP Log-In screen.

I think the problem maybe between my graphics card and my mobo from what I've noticed.

Another odd thing is that when I restart my computer from Windows, the monitor functions properly and I can see the memory check, and the general start-up routine. The only time I can't see this screen is when I turn on my computer for the first time.

Regardless if I can see the start-up screen or not, when I press DEL to enter the BIOS, the monitor sort of goes "dead" and just goes black. I'm pretty sure the BIOS is accessed, but I just can't see it.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Quodus]

the monitor on the restart is quite normal it just means the monitor doesnt have a chance to go to sleep before it boots up again. as for the bios thing try hooking up a different monitor like an old crt . its worth a go!

 

[sheemone00]

I've figured it out.

It was my S-Video cable hooked on my Video Card from my TV that was causing the problem....

 

[BadThad]

Originally posted by: sheemone00
I've figured it out.

It was my S-Video cable hooked on my Video Card from my TV that was causing the problem....

Thanks for the update....good to know!