HI

I've had a quick scan through old threds but I can find anything regarding this problem.

I have now come accross this problem with about 4 different PC's (with different hardware) and this is what happons:

When the Pc is turned on you sometimes get 1 long beep and 3 quick beeps...and there is no video output. but after restarting the machine a few times it boots fine.

Now I could understand if there was a problem and it didn't work all the time but it's a really intermitent problem.

Anyone know what it could be? I thought it could be something to do with memory timmings but after tweeking the bios this didn't seem to cure the problem.

Thanks

Ashley

I have found two sites that show beep codes.
http://www.computerhope.com/beep.htm#05 http://www.computercraft.com/docs/beeps.html

Depending on your system's BIOS your beep codes can mean different errors.
On some BIOS's it indicates bad RAM others suggest bad VGA.

In either case, because it is an intermittent problem I might suggest that you remove both your video card and ram. Blow out the sockets and re-install your boards. Use compressed air designed for cleaning computers, do not use compress air from a compressor or air-pig, they often spray a lot of moisture. And if your desperate and deside to do the blowing yourself make darn sure you don't spit. http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/wink.gif

FYI - Computer chips and cards experience what is known as "Chip Creap". As the computer warms and cools from being turned on and off, the expansion and contraction of metal components cause chips and cards to creep out of their sockets.

I good sign of this would be when your computer experiences this problem more often when cold and components have contracted causing looser connections. By time you have tried booting 3, 4 times parts start to warm up and therefor expand making connections tighter.

Good Luck and Happy Holidays.