Intermittent beep codes and freezing

[john1352]

Hi, I have a problem with my computer. Sometimes when I turn it on, I hear the beep code: 1 long, then 3 short. Nothing happens on the monitor and the num lock light will not turn on/off. If I try again, it will usually work on the second or third try. It will also sometimes freeze within the first few minutes of turning on (sometimes before the desktop loads, usually after), but once it gets past there it is usually ok. As the trouble starts before windows does, I suspect it is a hardware problem. Most of the computer is about 4yrs old. I have the following set up:

Motherboard: p5k se
CPU: intel core 2 duo E6750 @ 2.66GHz
GPU: Nvidia Geforce GTS 450
Monitor: Viewsonic VA903-3
2GB ram
Windows vista SP2 32-bit

If you need more info, please ask, thanks for taking the time to read.

 

[nikorr]

It sounds likeComputer RAM (memory) related issue. Did u do any upgrades or do anything in the case or didn't use the PC for while? Try these steps to fight the issue.

Answer

Some of the below steps recommend removing physical parts within the computer. While in the computer it is highly recommend that you be aware of ESD and its potential hazards. Information about ESD and proper grounding techniques are found on our ESD help page.

Remove added memory

If you've recently added or tried to add additional memory to the computer and have started getting these beeps. Remove all new memory you've added to the computer. If the computer works fine after removing the new memory you're encountering either an incompatibility or defective new memory.

What type of computer memory to use in a memory upgrade?
Open computer and reseat memory

Sometimes when the computer is moved or over time a memory stick can become loose causing the computer to be unable to read the memory or get errors as it's reading it. Try fixing this issue by opening the computer removing each of the memory sticks you have in the computer and then placing them back into the computer.

Swap memory location

If reseating the memory did not resolve the issue try swapping the location of the memory. If you have only one stick of memory in the computer try moving it to another slot and then boot the computer.

If you have more than one stick of memory try removing all but one stick of memory and boot the computer. If this does not resolve the issue try removing that stick of memory and try one of the other sticks of memory.

Try another computers memory

If you have access to another computer that uses the same memory, try using its known good memory in your computer.

If another computers memory works you know that you have bad memory. If another computers memory does not work and it is compatible with your computer unfortunately your motherboard or the slots on the motherboard are defective causing it to be unable to properly read the memory, which means the motherboard will have to be replaced.

Replace memory

If it is determined the memory in the computer is bad we suggest that you replace it.

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http://www.computerhope.com/beep.htm

 

[nikorr]

Can u reset the BIOS?
How To Clear CMOS @ http://pcsupport.about.com/od/fixtheproblem/tp/clearcmos.htm

 

[nikorr]

And if that does not help, replace the battery. The CR 2032 model.

 

[john1352]

Thanks, I will try what you have said.

 

[nikorr]

Fingers crossed : )