Laptop Boot Up Problems

Laptop computer

Few computer problems are more frustrating than a laptop that refuses to boot, as troubleshooting becomes infinitely more difficult when you are unable to get into the operating system. By understanding the common causes of laptop booting problems, you may be able to spare yourself the cost of paying an electronics store by resolving the issue on your own.

Laptop computer

Error Messages

If a laptop is unable to boot, there will usually be an error message giving you some idea of the problem's cause. Read this error message to know where to begin in the troubleshooting process. Some common error messages seen on laptop computers during the booting process include "NTLDR" messages, which deal with the operating system, and messages relating to the hard drive and the power supply.

Identifying a Software Issue

If a laptop has trouble booting and displays error messages generated by Windows, the cause is often a failed driver installation or other change that rendered the computer unstable. This type of issue can often be resolved by starting Windows in safe mode, then using the System Restore utility to roll the computer back to the previous configuration. If an external peripheral was recently added to your laptop, such as an external DVD drive, try booting the laptop with the device disconnected, then reconnecting it once Windows is fully loaded.

Identifying a Hardware Issue

Random booting issues on a laptop--those that seem to come and go with no explanation--are often caused by a problem with the hardware. Other symptoms of a possible hardware issue include a system that does not get past the POST screen (the initial monochrome screen displayed when the unit is turned on), or an error message containing the word SMART (this refers to an internal health monitoring system used by hard drives).

Identifying a Heat Issue

For all electronics, heat can be a killer. Heat-related issues can be caused by using the laptop in an unsafe way (such as by putting the laptop on a surface that blocks the air intake port), or by dust building up inside the cooling system. An unacceptable level of noise emanating from the cooling can generally signify that the cooling system needs to be cleaned in order to prevent a more serious issue. If a laptop has a booting problem that only tends to arise after the machine has been in use for extended periods, heat is likely to be the cause.

Prevention/Solution

Do not neglect your laptop's power supply. Laptop power supplies are often quite fragile, and are susceptible to damage from heat (exacerbated by being trapped under a desk or chair) as well as damage to the shielding surrounding the cable. Problems caused by a faulty power supply are often not instantaneous; it can take time for a power-related issue to become evident. To avoid booting problems that may be caused by a power issue, replace your laptop's power supply at the first sign of physical damage.

References

• Laptop Repair - Troubleshooting Toshiba, Dell, HP, IBM Acer and Sony laptops
• Troubleshooting Laptop Hardware Problems
• Laptop Troubleshooting Guide