Help with my aunty's computer please!

[nicktay2605]

Hi guys, I'm trying to sort out a problem with my aunty's computer and really need some help. Her computer turns on, the green power led stays solid green, you can hear the fans spinning, but nothing else happens. The monitor stays in power save mode and I can't get any response using the keyboard or mouse. Also, the caps lock and scroll lock keys on the keyboard don't work; the num lock does, but it's behaving strangely, sometimes has to be held down to stay on for example.

It's a pre-built system with an integrated graphics card running Windows XP. My best guess is that it's a motherboard problem, as that would explain why the monitor isn't receiving any signal and the keyboard and mouse don't work. Is this likely to be the problem or could it be anything else? Is there any way for me to test for faults without having any spare parts? She doesn't have much money and really can't afford to buy a totally new machine so I desperately need some help trying to fix this!

 

[joem1983]

Try and reset the CMOS. Reseat the RAM, try one slot of RAM. Reseat the cables, check theyre all connected inside and out.

 

[nicktay2605]

Can I reset the cmos if the computer won't boot? I've tried the RAM and all the cables are definitely connected. Could it be a dead power supply? I'm guessing it's got to be that or the mobo?

 

[Jordan97]

Does it normally give a POST beep?

 

[Inaharry]

Unfortunately, it does sound like a mobo or CPU problem.

It's worth trying a full power cycle, (unplug the power from the PSU and let it drain completely) and try powering on again.

You should be able to reset the CMOS by changing the jumper on the motherboard temporarily, (normally from pins 1-2 to 2-3, it should be printed on the mobo somewhere, usually near the battery).

You could also try removing all memory modules and powering on. This should give you the single long beep error code. If not, then there's definitely a problem...