Computer is absolutely dead-Fixed!

[computerchic]

Im fixing a computer for a old war hero, who is writing his autobiography. He has a
Gateway Flexatxstc BRO essential 700C desktop.

He doesnt go on the internet. Just uses it to write his life story.

In june, he left to go away and just came back and it wont turn on. No fans, no lights,nothing.
He said he shut it off.

He changed power cords, wall outlets...all of the above.

I have it now and no power. Will opening it up help?

*****UPDATE:

I opened it up, and cleaned it out and it powered on without the cover on. Everything is all set.
However when I put the cover on and press the start button, it doesnt work, can someone help me?****

Thanks!

[Carbon Dudeoxide]

Welcome to ComputerHope.

When you press the power button, EXACTLY what happens?

Also, what model is the computer?

[computerchic]

Gateway Flexatxstc BRO essential 700C desktop. not sure if you need more info than that.


Nothing happens. no lights no fan, no noise whatsoever.  Should I open it up and clean it out?
Its not a tower, its a desktop...it's old..lol  So, it will not be as easy to open like a tower.....

If I need to open it, what should I look for?

Thanks for helping! :-)

[Carbon Dudeoxide]

Wow, that is a pretty old System.

Anyways, before getting into the computer, make sure you've grounded yourself (to prevent static) and also remove the power cord.

First thing I would try is removing the CMOS Battery (on the motherboard) for about 10 minutes and then putting it back in to see if it boots or not.

If it doesn't check and double-check all the connections in the computer are secure and connected.

Here are some cleaning tips if you're interested:
http://www.computerhope.com/cleaning.htm
(never use a vacuum)

[computerchic]

It is old, but this guy has all his writings on it...I guess he served with Buzz Aldren and others. Was in the battle of the bulge. This guy is a true hero and I just want to make things easier for him.

I will try what you suggested. Now if that fails, can I make that hard drive a slave to mine and get the contents onto my computer?  Where can I buy a ide to usb connector? Im hoping a retail store has one and I dont have to order it online.  Any help is appreciated!

thanks cindi

[Carbon Dudeoxide]

You don't have to access it via USB. You just have to hook it next to the Master Hard Drive as a Slave Drive.
(Make sure you set the jumpers on the hard drive to Slave)

[Carbon Dudeoxide]

Just a note: Topic Solved over PM.

It seems the thing just needed a little cleaning.