Computer Will Not Start

[tefp80121]

I built this computer years ago and have had no problems until yesterday.

Last night I turned off the computer (via Windows XP). When I went to start again will not start. The fans turn on for a second. There is a long beep and a quick short beep. The LED 2 on the motherboard flashes red for a second. The motherboard reads 8.3.

I am stumped by this one as I have never had a single bit of problems every since I built it years ago.

Motherboard: Abit AX8
Power Supply: Antec 500 watt

 

[Harvey]

1. Power down, open the case, unplug and reseat your RAM and video card. If you have an air can, blow out the dust bunnies and accumulated pet hair while you have it open.

While you're in there, look at the power capacitors. Those are the tall, cylindrical components about .3 - .4" wide on the motherboard. If the tops any of them are domed, rather than flat, they're bad. Replacing them is only worth it if the board is new enough to be worth the effort and you know what you're doing with a solder iron. Even then, it still may not work because removing old through hole (as opposed to surfact mount components) can ruin the connections to the inner layers of the circuit board.

2. Remove all but one stick of RAM, and try again. If that fails, try other sticks, one at a time.

If that resolves the problem, you may have one or more bad sticks of RAM.

Let us know what happened with those first steps, and we can go from there.

Good luck.

 

[C1]

That code (1 long then 1 short beep) signifies an MB issue (IBM BIOS code).

Recommend that you pull the unit down for cleaning and inspection to just the MB (leave CPU + heatsink installed). Vacuum MB (including RAM slots); clean RAM contacts with DeOxit and cycle all movable board jumpers to ensure good contact. Inspect under side of MB for dust. Inspect capacitors for leakage. Ensure no loose metallic objects present in the case (or on under side of MB; eg, some metal screw that rolled under the MB and is creating a circuit disruption). Inspect PS and fan. Vacuum PS unit/fans and perform external function test. Clean all heatsinks (CPU) and fans (CPU cooler, PS and case) using a suitable artists paint brush while applying vacuum cleaner to prevent dust redistribution.

Reassemble and test. If problem still exists, try a PS substitution.

 

[tefp80121]

Did everything that both of you suggested. Tried different RAM and PSU and same problem.

I have seen bad capacitors before (Dell) and sure didn't see anything amiss in that regard. However, I really looked VERY closely and note one capacitor that has a slight bulge.

Sounds like next step is to replace motherboard. Since it is a 939 slot board sounds like I will be replacing the CPU also.

 

[KGB]

Have you tried clearing the CMOS?

 

[pete1229]

Cap has a bulge, it's time, I'm afraid to say, for a new build or at least a new Mobo.

 

[KGB]

Got a soldering iron?

Try replacing the cap. Whaddaya got to lose?

 

[tefp80121]

Yes, I already tried clearing the CMOS.

Where would I find capacitors to replace it with?

Nobody makes 939 socket boards anymore so it sounds like a new motherboard AND CPU.

 

[Harvey]

Where would I find capacitors to replace it with?

Unless you're good at soldering and you know how to select electronic components, don't try. Removing through hole (as opposed to surface mounted) components is dicey because you can easily break the connections to the inner layers of a mult-layer board and not even see the damage.

If you think you are up to it, know that just replacing caps with any parts having the same value and voltage ratings isn't good enough for digital gear. Even if places like Radio Shack have the values you need, they may not carry caps rated high enough for temperature range, high frequency characteristics and leakage.

To identify the parts you need, check the manufacturer's exact model number for the part(s). If you can't find the exact make and model of the original part, DigiKey's catalog usually lists the relevant specs for various makers' parts, or you can go to other cap manufacturers' sites to look for cross reference information, or you may be able to find what you need by searching Google.

Nobody makes 939 socket boards anymore so it sounds like a new motherboard AND CPU.

You can still find them on trading forums like our FS/T forum and on auction sites, but you'll be getting used gear with an undetermined lifespan.

Considering the time, the cost and the risk, it's probably better to sell your good parts, CPU, RAM, vid card, etc., for cash to help pay for a new setup. In addition to a faster CPU, you'll get newer, faster RAM, and the new board will support PCI-e 2 and SATA 2 or 3, which will accept your current parts and allow you upgrade your vid card and HD, later.

Hope that helps.