How to Troubleshoot an HP Desktop Computer That Won't Start
HP computers are among the most popular for both home and business users, and these computers are typically quite reliable. Even so, it is important for both businesses and individual computer owners to know how to troubleshoot their PCs if something goes wrong. Knowing how to troubleshoot your own computer can save you a lot of hassle--and a lot of money.
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Instructions
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Push the power button on the PC and watch for the green light to come on. The green light on the front of the PC is your indication the PC has power. If the computer does not start, it is important to first determine the source of the problem. If you see an amber or an orange light on an HP computer, it generally means that the processor board has failed. If the processor board is bad, you will need to order a replacement directly from HP or from an HP-authorized service center. These systems are proprietary, and replacing the failed board with a standard model from another manufacturer will not work.
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Listen for beeps after the power button has been depressed. If you do not hear any beeps, it is an indication the PC may not be receiving electrical power. If you do hear beeps, it is important to refer to the user guide for your model of HP computer to determine what those beeps mean. These beeps are also known as POST (power-on self test) codes, and different beeps (long and short) have different meanings. For instance, one series of beeps may indicate the video is not working, so your HP computer may be starting even though you see no video.
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Test the electrical outlet the computer is plugged into by plugging another device into the same outlet. If the outlet is not working, plug the computer into a different outlet and test it. If the outlet is good, continue your troubleshooting.
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Remove the computer case by pulling on the release lever and lifting the case free of the chassis. Locate the power supply at the back of the PC, in front of where the power cord connects to the chassis. A faulty power supply will prevent the PC from starting, and if that is the source of the problem, a replacement power supply will need to be ordered. Some models of HP computers, especially Presario and Evo models, suffered from power supply and cooling fan issues, so it is always a good idea to examine these two parts carefully.
Locate the cooling fan on the computer. The cooling fan should be located near the power supply. Push the power button, listen for the noise of the fan and watch for the fan to start spinning. If the fan is not spinning, there is no power getting to the PC and the power supply will need to be replaced. If the power supply does need to be replaced, keep in mind these power supplies are proprietary and you will need to purchase a replacement directly from HP or from an HP-authorized service center.
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Comments
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I think that it may be possible that the Memory is failing, because the POST Sequence loads itself into the first 64k of Memory before it starts. Also, and HP/Compaq Power Supply may work also. Sources: I have one myself.
