Computer never stops beeping or has a solid beep

Updated: 12/10/2023 by Computer Hope
Illustrated speaker playing beeps.

When troubleshooting computer issues during the boot-up process, beep codes are quite helpful. For instance, they can let you know if your video card memory has problems or there's a problem with the real-time clock. If you hear a long, continuous beep or a consistent series of short ones from your computer, the following sections may help you.

Not passing POST

If your computer is not booting or you're not getting any display, your computer is not passing the POST (power-on self-test). Although it varies by BIOS (basic input/output system), a long, uninterrupted beep when turning on the computer may indicate it's not receiving enough power, a PCI Express card is loose, or there's a motherboard issue.

A series of beeps with different tones and intervals can mean anything from video errors, to one or more of the fans malfunctioning, to CPU (central processing unit) or RAM (random-access memory) failure.

A good first step is disconnecting the computer's power cord and opening the case. Verify that all power connections are firmly in place (i.e., the ones for the motherboard, case fans, and video card). Then, ensure that all cards are properly seated. Once you've checked these items, see if the fans are spinning by leaving the case open and powering up the computer.

If your computer still beeps after trying the steps above, you may need a more specific diagnosis. Look at our beep code page and follow all the suggestions on our POST troubleshooting steps page.

Keyboard issue

If the computer boots and works normally, apart from the constant beeping or solid beep, you're likely encountering a keyboard issue. We recommend the following:

  1. Unplug the keyboard for 30 seconds.
  2. While unplugged, inspect the keys to ensure none are stuck in a depressed position (as if you're holding a key down).
  3. Plug the keyboard back into the computer.

If the problem continues and you have another keyboard, try an alternate keyboard.

Other input device

If you have other input devices, like a joystick, gamepad, or numeric pad, temporarily disconnect it to verify it's not causing your problem. In some situations, these devices may send a signal to the computer and cause the beeping.