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View Full Version : Biostar M7MKA motherboard - refuses to boot


danleff
05-01-2001, 06:04 AM
My system won't boot w/ Athlon 800 mhz installed. I get the "splash" bios screen that states use "del" to get into the bios, however the keyboard will not function - system stops here.
-Tried 3 brands of memory (unbuffered pc100)
-tried 2 power supplies Enermax 359 watt and highpower 300 watt
-Keyboard works, and yes, I used the correct connector on the computer
-cards are seated.
-clearing CMOS did not help
-sent back to computergeeks and they stated that it tested ok, sent it back.
-tried removing components one at a time - all work on another machine.

Apparently others have had this problem, but could not find a solution. Biostar just keeps saying to try another power supply.

Help would be much appreciated!

mjc
05-01-2001, 08:33 AM
This may not be possible to do, but some MOBOs have labels printed on them identifying each connection, check and see if the connector for the keyboard is actually soldered to the spot labeled keyboard, also check to see if there is a sloppy solder job at the same spot.

Have you tried usin a USB keyboard?


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mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.fortunecity.com/skyscraper/highrise/11/index.htm)

danleff
05-01-2001, 07:21 PM
I have not tried to use a USB keyboard, but will try to find one to use (or I guess buy one). I will also try to see if the solder job/id is there. I will also try to reseat the memory and Athlon processor. Since the retailer did not send me back the users manual, I have to rely on the online one (not the best). I will re-post my results. Thanks for the tip.

mjc
05-01-2001, 10:13 PM
Call/write/email and tell them you want your manual back!

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mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.fortunecity.com/skyscraper/highrise/11/index.htm)

danleff
05-02-2001, 07:01 PM
WELL, I am unable to determine if the solder job is OK, as the ps2 and keyboard connector, module on the mobo is over the connector/solder point on the mobo. I ordred a usb keyboard (what the heck, I can use it on my main machine -the one I am having trouble with is being built for my daughter). Will a usb keyboard work if I am unable to get to the bios settings to assure that usb is enabled?

mjc
05-02-2001, 07:54 PM
Maybe, usually the default is enabled for USB, most often the need is to disable it if you're having problems (like Windows not shutting down properly one of the things to try is disable USB in BIOS). But you aren't to that point yet, (yeah I know I'm being real helpful with a definite maybe.... http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif ) I think the chances are pretty good that alredy is enabled, maybe Raandy or one of the others can say for sure.....

If it is a standard module then it should be soldered to the correct locations, that doesn't eliminate a bad job though. Did they test it in the exact configuration you are setting it up as or just run some tests on it (like seeing if x circuit is getting power)?

Also have tried just video, RAM, keyboard to power on?



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mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.fortunecity.com/skyscraper/highrise/11/index.htm)

danleff
05-02-2001, 08:06 PM
Yes, I tried it with just the video, ram and keyboard connected, disconnecting the hd, floopy one at a time. I even did not connect the cd rom yet, anticipating that I wanted a barebones system to troubleshoot any problems that came up. The retailer wanted me to look up the id code on the Athlon I had to see if it was an "original" but this 800 mhz Athlon (classic, which is the only one that works in this slot A Biostar mobo)works in my Asus K7M slot A mobo just fine!

As soon as I receive the usb keyboard, I will see what happens.

mjc
05-02-2001, 10:09 PM
Just as I thought, you've checked all the obvious things, it is either the keyboard(which works on another system or possibly the keyboard controller, which the USB keayboard should bypass...) or some other device conflict which can't be found yet......

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mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.fortunecity.com/skyscraper/highrise/11/index.htm)

danleff
05-03-2001, 05:28 AM
Yes, the keyboard works on another machine. For the heck of it, I will try the IBM keyboard off my main machine and also I will try a pci video card in case the agp is a problem (agp bridge) although it is a new tnt2 card, although the video id comes up. I will try to find the keyboard contoller chip to see if it is seated properly? Maybe another memory chip,, while I wait for the usb keyboard. Thanks!

tjaymadison
05-03-2001, 09:37 AM
Could your mobo possibly have a hardware jumper on it to select for a USB KB? If not, just plugging one in is probably not going to solve your problem. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/frown.gif

In my Award BIOS setup program, disabled is the default setting for "USB Keyboard Support", and I'd imagine this is the norm for this option in most others. Otherwise you'd have to have a USB KB to boot the first time. After USB is enabled for the KB, it seems like the logical consequence would have to be that the PS/2 KB port is disabled. I don't think a system could recognize two KB's on different ports.


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"When I nod my head, hit it with the hammer."
-- (Moe, holding nail, to Curly, holding hammer)

[This message has been edited by tjaymadison (edited 05-03-2001).]

mjc
05-03-2001, 10:04 AM
Most often the keyboeard controller chip is soldered, and yeah it seems some mobos are enabled some aren't, just can't really tell until it is tried becuase I don't know of anywhere that lists that kind of info......

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mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.fortunecity.com/skyscraper/highrise/11/index.htm)

danleff
05-03-2001, 05:21 PM
Yes, I found the test information on the board at Biostar, and the normal default for USB Keyboard is "disabled." I will keep trying. By the way, Biostar support returned my e-mail message and stated that the mobo is only tested to 750 mhz, suggesting that I buy a new Athlon at the lower speed. I wonder why the board is advertized at up to 900 mhz??? also, if the retailer tested it at 800 mhz and 900??? I am aware that the mobo will only handle a "classic Athlon" which is what I have - Biostar asked if this is what I have. Wonder if I should also try to put my 900 mhz "classic" from my good machine in and see what happens?

JJJ
05-04-2001, 12:30 PM
have your tried changing the jumper setting of the proccesser so the mobo can handel the new proccesser. Some mother boards have a defult shutdown mechanism which if you greatly underclock or overclock a proccesser the comp wont boot up unless this problem is fixed. try that it should work cuz ive had the problem trying to overclock my proccesser.

P.S. sorry bout my spelling i was typing fast and to busy to fully concentrate on this.

danleff
05-04-2001, 06:48 PM
I believe that this mobo is jumperless, but I will check this out. Thanks for the information!

danleff
05-05-2001, 10:13 AM
This message is for Tjay. I read your advice for clearing the CMOS directed to helpmeplz. My motherboard directions don't mention powering up after setting the bios jumpers to clear the cmos. Is this a step that I may have missed? The directions state to switch the jumper, wait 5 seconds then place the jumper back in normal position. Maybe, I did not clear the cmos properly? Is another step to take the battery out for a few hours, then put it back in?

mjc
05-05-2001, 10:17 AM
Taking the battery out and waiting a few hours should also work.

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mjc
Links list:Computer Links (http://www.fortunecity.com/skyscraper/highrise/11/index.htm)

All Control Agents must memorize Rule 5 before proceding to Rule 6

sea69
05-05-2001, 12:23 PM
hi

I have been following this, and as you have stated that your MB does not support this Athlon @ above 750Mhz (or at least the matter is in question) , and also I have a *8ooMhz* athlon(t-bird) that works with either keyboard just fine. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/eek.gif

Now, back to the PS.

My Athlon has a 250watt PS, and works fine.. The MAIN thing is it an AMD APPROVED PS... and compatible with your MB.

hmmmmmmmmmmmm..........


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sea1_69@hotmail.com

homepage (http://www.seanweb1.homestead.com/3.html)



[This message has been edited by sea69 (edited 05-05-2001).]

danleff
05-05-2001, 01:46 PM
I tried two power supplies, a Highpower HPC300-101 rev:co and Enermax EG365P, both are on the AMD approved list.. I'm persistent.

Does anyone know how to id the processor by the code number. I was apparently sold a classic, as the mobo does not support t-bird. Good thing I opted for the 1 year replacement warrantee.

By the way, has anyone had trouble posting - sometimes the posting does not take?

Randy_tx
05-05-2001, 10:40 PM
Sure seems like a simple problem with the motherboard not being able to handle 100mhz X 8 multiplier to me....are U sure it doesnt have "jumpers" on it??

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Will XP save Me ?

Reid
05-05-2001, 11:04 PM
AMD's site is not much good for finding information, but EPOX said:

AMD processors can be easily identified by reading the part number printed on the top of their black casing. In the part numbering after the initial "AMD" statement will follow a single letter.

A = AMD Athlon "Thunderbird" and K = AMD Athlon "Classic".

AMD-A 0850MPR24B A is an example of an AMD Althon "Thunderbird" processor.

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reido@my-deja.com

Friends don't let friends install Windows ME

danleff
05-06-2001, 06:06 AM
I have read the manual cover to cover - no jumpers are mentioned for the cpu multipier. The only jumper that is not coverd in the manual is one right next to the battery (2 jumper pins). Thanks for the id information - it is a classic - AMDK800MTR52B. I do know that it does work, as I tried it in an Asus K7M with no problem. I think that I might give up and try another mobo, but will wait to try the USB keyboard when I get it.

tjaymadison
05-06-2001, 07:27 PM
Nobody checks 'Da Guide anymore. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif
My system has a CMOS clear jumper but when I use it, it doesn't seem to do anything (http://www.pcguide.com/ts/x/comp/mbsys/cmos_BatteryFailing.htm)

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"I am not able to rightly apprehend the kind of confusion of ideas that could provoke such a question."
-- Charles Babbage, mathematician, computer pioneer, analytical engine designer (1791-1871)

[This message has been edited by tjaymadison (edited 05-06-2001).]

sea69
05-06-2001, 07:31 PM
good point tj, Charles has done so much work HERE.

We need to use the search in the guide here 1st.

There are answers for MOST questions RIGHT HERE!

http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif

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sea1_69@hotmail.com

homepage (http://www.seanweb1.homestead.com/3.html)

tjaymadison
05-06-2001, 07:50 PM
Sea -- AMEN TO THAT! That link I posted the first time was the one from the right page on the screen, but
after cut and paste, it links to a different page. Is this something to report to anyone, like Pete or Charles?

Sorry. Link above is really here (http://www.pcguide.com/ts/x/comp/mbsys/cmosclearcmosjumper-c.htm). http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/frown.gif http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/redface.gif

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"I am not able to rightly apprehend the kind of confusion of ideas that could provoke such a question."
-- Charles Babbage, mathematician, computer pioneer, analytical engine designer (1791-1871)

[This message has been edited by tjaymadison (edited 05-06-2001).]

[This message has been edited by tjaymadison (edited 05-06-2001).]

sea69
05-06-2001, 07:57 PM
click edit, and make sure you didn't make a mistake 1st... and I'm sure Pete will see this anyways.. hehe

http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif


edit: Charles says (via email) that there was a BOT running again here... Why why why do these IDIOTS do this??????/
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sea1_69@hotmail.com

homepage (http://www.seanweb1.homestead.com/3.html)

[This message has been edited by sea69 (edited 05-06-2001).]

danleff
05-06-2001, 08:54 PM
Guys, thanks for all the work. I re-read the entire postings. Sea69: to avoid any confusion, Biostar told me that the motherboard was not tested with a processor over 750 mhz; the board is advertized as running classics up to 900 mhz. This mobo is approved by AMD on their website for up to 800 mhz. The technicians at Computergeeks told me that they tested my mobo with a 800 AND 900 mhz processor with no problems. Also, the heatsink and fan is a coolermaster AMD approved DP25-H54 up to 1000 mhz.

danleff
05-08-2001, 07:28 PM
Searched around various search engines - found one guy who had the same problem. It seems that w/processors over 700, the bios has a problem. He claims that a bios upgrade is available and to try a lower speed processor, which worked for him. Just picked one up on e-bay. He says that after the bios revision is installed it should recognize the 800 mhz processor. Problem is I don't see any bios upgrades, but will do my homework. The bios id is weird - on boot-up states "203A5A42" as the bios - don't seem to be able to find it in any bios guides. I'll let you all know how I make out. I have to tell you - I have learned a lot from you guys and the pc troubleshooting guide!

danleff
05-09-2001, 08:40 PM
Bingo! I got ahold of a 500 mhz cpu and the system booted straight up! I applied the bios update flash and will try the 800 mhz tomorrow. At this point, if only the 500 mhz works, this is good enough for me for a second machine. I'll let you all know how I made out. Until then, thanks for helping me be persistent and do my homework!

tjaymadison
05-09-2001, 08:49 PM
Good Work, Dan! http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/biggrin.gif Hope it's a smooth road.


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"I am not able to rightly apprehend the kind of confusion of ideas that could provoke such a question."
-- Charles Babbage, mathematician, computer pioneer, analytical engine designer (1791-1871)

danleff
05-10-2001, 07:42 PM
No go with the 800 mhz. I guess I will have to live with 500 for now and wait for the new frustration board to show up/ bother Biostar again. I went for a Color Power slot A board - I know via chipsets better. Something to play with. I guess I like to challenge/punish myself since I am on a low budget! Wish me luck! I hope that I d not have to return for help! Should have went with a Tyan and spent the cash originally??? My old one for my old K-6 chip worked flawlessly - this is the mobo I am using right now. Maybe my daughter won't get it back. My Asus K7M ain't bad either. It is running a slot A 900 mhz without a glitch.

Thanks guys (and galls??) for all the help.