Computer Hope
Hardware => Hardware => Topic started by: hammerash on October 01, 2007, 04:24:05 PM
-
I have HP desktop about 6 years old. new hard drives and reinstalled windows in June. It seemed OK then. I upgraded RAM to Kingston VR 2x1gig (from oem 2x 256MB) I think it was OK after that but at some point (I think it was weeks later) suddenly I heard beeping noise. Beep for about 3 seconds then stop for about 5 then kept repeating. Came to computer and found monitor blank (the light that changes from orange to green when there is signal was orange) and ctrl+alt+del does nothing. It is completely unresponsive. I hit power button and shut it off and when I restart it everything is fine. sometimes will go a week without problems. other times has recurred within few hours. Could it be the new RAM? other thought was that I had to slightly pull out graphic card to get RAM in. Could something be wrong with this connection? Should I reinstall graphic card? put in old RAM? (I really like the 2 gig!)
I leave computer on 24/7 because have USB TV tuner to tape shows. I had computer set to turn off hard disks and go to standby and shut off monitor. I just turned all these to "never" (just have screen saver active) and now will wait to see if problem recurs. Thoughts?
-
Its your ram....
The beeps are because you haven't inserted your ram correctly , i suggest you to change the slots each stick is in , and make sure there in place correctly *you should here 2 clicks* ....
Tony :)
This is 100% a ram problem .... just reinsert them and everything will be up and running ....
-
the ram was very hard to put in. As I said, I had to slightly pull out graphics card to get the one plastic tab to swing out. Then when putting the ram in, I had to really push HARD to get them to go. BUT, I did get two clicks for each one and the plastic release tabs all popped back up into place. The computer seemed to work fine afterwards. If it was ram, would it be an intermittant problem like I am having? Is it the beeps that make you so sure it is ram?
-
What is the model of your HP computer?
You may want to check the programs installed to see if it came with any hardware diagnostics software...so you can perform a full-system test.
-
Yeah if you have no signal on your screen and are receiving nothing but beeps ... its the ram not being seating correctly .... to put your mind at ease you can run a program which will tell you if there is anything at fault with the ram itself ...
http://www.memtest86.com/
Goodluck :)
Tony
-
This isn't 8 short beeps? I had a problem a while back, with a MSI board and it was to do with the graphics card, and it was 8 short beeps repeated till the power was cut, and that was something like "cannot write to video BIOS cache"
-
It is HP Pavilion 750n. It was not 8 beeps. It was just one beep, then pause, then just keeps repeating that pattern. I do have a lot of things that happened around same time. I had some bad sectors on hard drive. I ran diagnostics and I guess it isolated them and I didn't have problems anymore but since tape a lot of video with tv tuner, decided to replace HD with 200GB seagate. So I installed windows on this new drive. didn't have any problems. then decided to add ram. so I agree that the ram is suspect, but one thing is that it has never gone dead while I was using it. It always occurs when system is in standby and then just starts beeping. That is why I am trying to shut off the "standby" and "turn off hard disks" and "shut off monitor" in power setup. since I had such a hard time installing ram (removing graphics card and having to push extremely hard--was worried I was going to break the ram!) I was hoping to not have to do that again.
is the free download on the memtest link what I want or do I have to purchase to get tests I need?
-
Its free, i also agree it has to be you ram
-
Thanks all. I will run the memtest when I get home tonight. So if I remove the ram and reinstall it, any advice on doing this? clean the contacts with anything? I did get two clicks per module when I install last time. Do you think it is bad ram or bad install? How does the test tell me? If it fails the test, can I differentiate between bad ram and just bad install?
-
At this point it will serve little purpose to become too deeply involved in the technical jargon of Memory modules, such as Dimms, Simms, Dram and SDRam. Suffice to say for our purposes, all ram modules fit into memory slots on the motherboard. 486 motherboards use either 30pin simms or 72 pin simms. Pentium motherboards require at least 72pin simms or 168pin Dimm SDram modules.
30pin Simm
(http://freepctech.com/pc/001/images/30pinsimm2.jpg)
found on older 386/486 motherboards
72pin Simm
(http://freepctech.com/pc/001/images/72pinsimm2.jpg)
found on later 486 systems/early Pentium systems
168pin Dimm
(http://freepctech.com/pc/001/images/168pindimm2.jpg)
latest version of Ram Memory, often called:
PC100 and SDRam
The ram slots are typically easy to insert and uninstall memory. Memory modules fit in only one direction, with the Simms note the small cut on one side of the module, it corresponds with a tab in the memory holder. In using Dimms, 168pin ram, they have a distinctive pattern of three areas on the bottom of the module that must be aligned in order for the module to fit into the holder. Once a Dimm is in place the side clamps lock into place. This is the same with Simm modules, the small clips that hold them in place will lock once the module is properly installed.
On rare occasions the bottom of the module will not make good contact with the holder. You can remove any tarnish or other coatings that infringe upon good contact with the eraser of a pencil or rub them with a small amount of alcohol.
INSTALLATION OF RAM MODULES
Simms:
When installing SIMMs, most manufacturers require the module to be inserted at a 45 degree angle, then "snapped" forward to the correct position. Most Pentium systems require matched pairs of modules.
(http://freepctech.com/pc/001/images/simmholder.gif)
Dimms (SDRam):
Unlike SIMM installation, DIMMs may be "snapped" directly into the socket. Some DIMM sockets have minor physical differences. If your module doesn't seem to fit, please do not force it into the socket... attempt to return the module for one that fits your motherboard.
(http://freepctech.com/pc/001/images/dimmholder.gif)
Another issue that occurs is the use of mis-matched ram. In the case of Pentium or better motherboards and using Simms, the simm must be installed two at a time, matched pairs of ram.
If in fact the memory holders on the motherboard can become damaged or unable to properly seat memory in rare instances. The only hope for such problems is replacing the motherboard.
http://freepctech.com/pc/001/005.shtml
-
At this point it will serve little purpose to become too deeply involved in the technical jargon of Memory modules, such as Dimms, Simms, Dram and SDRam. Suffice to say for our purposes, all ram modules fit into memory slots on the motherboard. 486 motherboards use either 30pin simms or 72 pin simms. Pentium motherboards require at least 72pin simms or 168pin Dimm SDram modules.
30pin Simm
(http://freepctech.com/pc/001/images/30pinsimm2.jpg)
found on older 386/486 motherboards
72pin Simm
(http://freepctech.com/pc/001/images/72pinsimm2.jpg)
found on later 486 systems/early Pentium systems
168pin Dimm
(http://freepctech.com/pc/001/images/168pindimm2.jpg)
latest version of Ram Memory, often called:
PC100 and SDRam
The ram slots are typically easy to insert and uninstall memory. Memory modules fit in only one direction, with the Simms note the small cut on one side of the module, it corresponds with a tab in the memory holder. In using Dimms, 168pin ram, they have a distinctive pattern of three areas on the bottom of the module that must be aligned in order for the module to fit into the holder. Once a Dimm is in place the side clamps lock into place. This is the same with Simm modules, the small clips that hold them in place will lock once the module is properly installed.
On rare occasions the bottom of the module will not make good contact with the holder. You can remove any tarnish or other coatings that infringe upon good contact with the eraser of a pencil or rub them with a small amount of alcohol.
INSTALLATION OF RAM MODULES
Simms:
When installing SIMMs, most manufacturers require the module to be inserted at a 45 degree angle, then "snapped" forward to the correct position. Most Pentium systems require matched pairs of modules.
(http://freepctech.com/pc/001/images/simmholder.gif)
Dimms (SDRam):
Unlike SIMM installation, DIMMs may be "snapped" directly into the socket. Some DIMM sockets have minor physical differences. If your module doesn't seem to fit, please do not force it into the socket... attempt to return the module for one that fits your motherboard.
(http://freepctech.com/pc/001/images/dimmholder.gif)
Another issue that occurs is the use of mis-matched ram. In the case of Pentium or better motherboards and using Simms, the simm must be installed two at a time, matched pairs of ram.
If in fact the memory holders on the motherboard can become damaged or unable to properly seat memory in rare instances. The only hope for such problems is replacing the motherboard.
http://freepctech.com/pc/001/005.shtml
What a load of crap.....
-
lol.... Ermmm... Ok.. I dont really know what to say to that......
-
You just posted a load of information ..... from a site .... kudos link was posted .... but it has nothing to do with what this topic ..... your just giving him information on ram , quite frankly i don't even understand certain parts of what you just posted ...... its to in depth ..... and doesn't in anyway help this user .... all he needs to do is reinsert his ram correctly and run a mem test , if it doesn't work then his ram is faulty .....
-
He asked how to install his ram I told him.... Sorry if you cant understand... Lets see what the user thinks rather than what you think... considering you have a personal problem with me....
-
How its ment to be done without all spero-ts mumbo jumbo !!
1. You should shut down (Turn off) your computer, unplug your computer power cable. You can leave or disconnect all peripheral devices, such as your monitor, scanner, from the your PC. I leave all devices and cables plugged in and unplug the power cable only. Because it only takes me one minute to install a memory stick and twenty minutes to unplug and re-plug all peripheral devices and cables
2. Now you need to remove the computer's cover, read your computer manual if you don't know how to remove the Pc cover. This is a good time to take a good look inside your computer. If it's dirty and full of dust you may want to unplug all cables and take it outside and blow it clean with a can of compressed air. You can buy cans of compressed air from favorite computer store or from the Internet.
3. The computer is power off and the power cable is unplug and the cover is removed. You may want to lay you computer on it's side, this will make it easer to work on.
4. You need to ground yourself (removes static) before you handle your memory stick. I do this by touching the metal part of the computer case. You can do the same as I do or you can buy yourself professional grounding equipment at your favorite computer store it will cost you about $25 dollars.
5. Locate the notch on the bottom edge of the module to align it over the open memory slot.
6. Firmly insert the bottom edge of the memory into the slot.
7. You will here to clicks or one loud click .
Image A:
(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb196/richenstony/ram2.jpg)
Image B:
(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb196/richenstony/ramimage.jpg)
Image c:
(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb196/richenstony/ram4.jpg)
-
Tony I am done, not going to respond to anther comment you make towards me....
I dont understand why you can get over urself and just be mates....... but what ever...
-
guys please. don't need any arguing. I appreciate everyones help. I have DIMM memory 168 pin. I got on HP site prior to installing it and got instructions. On one of the modules, I couldn't pull the release lever down far enough to get it out. I had to pull graphics card out slightly to get lever all the way down. I pushed in new modules. One side would tend to go in first and then the other would be hard to get in. I pulled it out and push other side in first to make sure it wasn't a problem with the module fitting. It wasn't as the side that was hard to push in initially was not hard when I pushed it in first. The other side then would be hard. I did get it in and the levers popped back up and into the module cutout where it is supposed to sit. The computer then worked fine. It says I have 2G of RAM now, speed is improved.
I did find a test on my computer. HP has software that came on computer called PC Doctor. When I ran MEMORY test it didn't run. came up saying unable to allocate memory. so it is looking like memory issue, but I would think it wouldn't work at all or work poorly. It works fine, then just shuts down, and strangely, it doesn't occur when I am using it. It only occurs when computer is sitting. I am trying to determine if it is only when in standby mode cause I think it is (but not sure) I shut off standby and left computer on all night and it was fine this morning. I will wait for a while and see if occurs. If it doesn't occur, then I will turn standby on again and see if it occurs again. If it does, what would this mean? Why would going into standby cause this problem if it is RAM associated?
-
sorry man, did not mean to clutter up your thread....
-
Ok here is what I have done. I shut off power saving features but left screen saver on. I let computer sit all night and it was fine. Unlike before when it would start beeping within hours the last few times. however, until just recently, it only occurred very sporadically so can't really consider this as the problem--yet. Since several of you said it had to be RAM, I checked it out. It seemed fine. was in slots flush and the tabs to remove it (that pop up into slot in the modules) were in correct position. I decided to pull them out and switch them anyway. I got them in with definite clicks. I ran the memtest that someone sent link to. I let it run for about 6 hours and it made two passes with 0 errors. If the RAM were not seated correctly I would think it would get errors just like if the RAM were bad? I then cleaned everything real good. One of me fans (the one right on motherboard) was really clogged up with dirt. I got it all cleaned out and put everything back together and we'll see what happens. Oh yeh, I ran the PC doctor (software that came with my computer) and it still says could not allocate memory when I tried to run the memory test. I checked it out and it says that the software is to be used with the original OEM hardware configuration only--so I guess can't really consider this test valid. I have new DVD-RW, 2 new hard drives, and 2 new RAM modules!
-
Perphaps your psu is not correct for the new ram dvd drive etc... But hold up some one will be along to help further..
-
Go to reply #4 where Richenstony recommended
Memtest.
Memtest is a good reliable program.
-
I already did the memtest. See my last reply. I let it run for 2 passes (about 6 hours) and it had 0 errors.
-
Okay...from what I can tell your BIOS is giving you a warning...one long beep...stops...and then continues...no video....right?
Based on the information you've given us...the problem would tend to point to one or both of two things:
What I think the problem is:
1) Memory refresh rate...
Now, this is based on the fact that the BIOS is AMI. Probable cause: Memory is not compatible with the motherboard or the memory is actually bad.
What may be the cause, as well:
1) Failing or failed video card. Now this is just a shot in the dark, however...are you absolutely sure your memory is compatible and working? If not...this may be the other alternative you'll want to look into.
You can use Crucial Technologies to find memory compatible with your motherbaord...if you know the correct make and model...
If not...and you know the make/model of your computer...and haven't changed the motherboard, you may want to start here: Memory (http://www.saviour-pc.com/memory.html)
Now...I'm not trying to sell you anything...so don't think I'm spamming...but you can use that link to find the correct memory for your system and then see if you can find it cheaper wherever you'd like. I just thought I'd be helpful.
Good luck...and by all means...Please keep us posted...
-
Perhaps you could try your old ram in the machine ?
-
I checked HP site to get info on correct RAM, then went to Kingston site and I think they had something to verify that you were getting correct RAM also. I also told guys at comp usa and they said I had correct RAM. I already ran the memory test and it said no errors after 6 hours so can I assume that the ram is installed correctly and it is good? I also thought about something with video cause I did have to remove video card to install the ram. I made sure it was installed correctly when I reinstalled the ram this time. I plan to let my computer sit and see if the problem recurrs. If so then I will try putting the OEM RAM back in and see if it happens then. I will let you all know. thanks for the help