ELITEGROUP COMPUTER SYSTEMS 553LQGXX Users Manual

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This chapter describes locating and solving problems that you may encounter while
using your computer.

Locating a Problem

Problems with your computer can be caused by something as minor as an unplugged
power cord – or as major as a damaged hard disk. The information in this chapter is
designed to help you find and solve minor problems. If you try all the suggested
solutions and you still have a problem, make a list of what steps you have taken to

correct the problem and contact your dealer.
Successful troubleshooting is the result of careful observation, deductive reasoning,

and an organized approach to solving the problem.
The problems that you will encounter can be divided into two basic categories:

hardware problems and software problems. Hardware problems can be further divided
into electrical and mechanical problems. You will know you have a hardware
problem if the screen is dark, the computer cannot read the disk drives, or you get an
error message during the Power-On Self Test (POST).

Software errors can occur at several levels. The ROM BIOS and the operating system
can give you a large number of error messages. On top of this, each application
software package has its own set of error messages. It is important to determine
whether the software error message you are getting is from the application or the
operating system. Once you know this, you can look in the respective manual for a
solution to the problem.

Checking Cables and Connections

Start by performing a careful visual inspection of the exterior of the computer. If no
LEDs are illuminated, make sure that your computer and its peripherals are getting
power and communicating with each other properly.

To check the power cables, and connections:

If you have been using battery power, connect the Notebook to an external

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power source and make sure that the battery has a charge.
If you are using the Notebook with the AC adapter, check the power outlet, the

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power cord, and any power switches that may affect your computer.

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 Check the wall outlet or power strip with an item that you know is

functioning properly. A lamp or radio is a convenient item for checking the
power. You may also need to check the fuses and breakers in your electric
box.

 If the outlet is controlled by a wall switch, make sure that the switch is on.
 If the outlet is controlled by a dimmer switch, use a different outlet.
 If your computer is plugged into a power strip with an On/Off switch, make

sure the switch is on.

With the computer’s power switched off, check all cable connections. If the

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computer is connected to any peripheral devices, look for loose or disconnected
cables.

If the computer is too close to a wall, a cable connection may be loose or the cables
may be crimped.

Do not substitute cables for different devices (other than the
manufacturer recommended cables) even if they look exactly alike. The
wiring inside the cable may be different.

When you are certain that you have power available and all connections are

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good, turn the computer on again. If the computer still does not start, you may
have a hardware problem.

The Power-On Self Test

The Power-On Self Test (POST) runs every time you turn on or reset the Notebook.
The POST checks memory, the main system board, the display, the keyboard, the disk
drives, and other installed options.

A few seconds after you turn on your computer, a copyright message appears on your
display screen. A memory test message appears next; as the test continues, memory
size increases until all installed memory is tested. Normally, the only test routine
visible on the screen will be the memory test.

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Two classifications of malfunctions can be detected during the POST:

Error messages that indicate a failure with either the hardware, the software, or

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the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS). These critical malfunctions prevent the
computer from operating at all or could cause incorrect and apparent results. An
example of a critical error is microprocessor malfunction.

• Messages that furnish important information on the power-on and boot processes

(such as memory status). These non-critical malfunctions are those that cause
incorrect results that may not be readily apparent. An example of a non-critical
error would be a memory chip failure.

In general, if the POST detects a system board failure (a critical error), the computer
halts and generates a series of beeps. If failure is detected in an area other than the
system board (such as the display, keyboard, or an adapter card) an error message is
displayed on the screen and testing is stopped. It is important to remember that the
POST does not test all areas of the computer, only those that allow it to be
operational enough to run diagnostic programs.

If your system does not successfully complete the POST, but displays a blank screen,
emits a series of beeps, or displays an error code, consult your dealer.

General Hardware Problems

A few common hardware problems and suggested solutions are presented in the table
below:

Problem:

Solution:

follow the instruction on the installation of audio driver.

Problem:

Failure in the installation of the Audio driver.

Be sure to first remove the current audio device from your system. Please

The display screen is dark

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