HP Compaq Presario CQ3212L, Compaq Presario CQ3285L, Compaq Presario CQ3100KL Started Guide
Getting Started
Business PCs
Document Part Number: 384106-001
May 2005
Use this guide after you have completed the steps detailed in the
Quick Setup guide. It will help you set up factory-provided
software. It also includes basic troubleshooting information
should you have problems during the initial startup process.
© Copyright 2005 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
The information contained herein is subject to change without notice.
Microsoft and Windows are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the
U.S. and other countries.
The only warranties for HP products and services are set forth in the
express warranty statements accompanying such products and services.
Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty.
HP shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions
contained herein.
This document contains proprietary information that is protected by
copyright. No part of this document may be photocopied, reproduced, or
translated to another language without the prior written consent of
Hewlett-Packard Company.
WARNING: Text set off in this manner indicates that failure to
Å
follow directions could result in bodily harm or loss of life.
CAUTION: Text set off in this manner indicates that failure to follow
Ä
directions could result in damage to equipment or loss of information.
Getting Started
Business PCs
First Edition (May 2005)
Document Part Number: 384106-001
Contents
Installing & Customizing the Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Installing the Operating System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Microsoft Security Updates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Installing Microsoft Critical Updates that are
Loaded on the System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Downloading Updates from the Microsoft
Windows Update Web Site. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Accessibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Installing or Upgrading Device Drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Customizing the Monitor Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Protecting the Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Transferring Files and Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Restoring the Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Turning Off the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Finding More Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Using the Documentation and Diagnostics CD. . . . . . . .8
Before You Call for Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Helpful Hints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Basic Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Solving General Problems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Solving Hardware Installation Problems. . . . . . . . . . . .22
Interpreting Diagnostic Lights and Audible Codes. . . .25
Getting Started www.hp.com iii
Getting Started
Installing & Customizing the Software
CAUTION: Do not add optional hardware or third-party devices to
Ä
the computer until the operating system is successfully installed. Doing
so may cause errors and prevent the operating system from installing
properly.
Be sure there is a 4-inch (10.2-cm) clearance at the back of the
✎
unit and above the monitor to permit the required airflow.
Installing the Operating System
The first time you turn on the computer, the operating system is
installed automatically. This process takes about 5 to 10 minutes,
depending on which operating system is being installed.
Carefully read and follow the instructions on the screen to
complete the installation.
CAUTION: Once the automatic installation has begun, DO NOT
Ä
TURN OFF THE COMPUTER UNTIL THE PROCESS IS COMPLETE.
Turning off the computer during the installation process may damage
the software that runs the computer or prevent its proper installation.
If the computer shipped with more than one operating system
✎
language on the hard drive, the installation process could take up
to 60 minutes.
Getting Started www.hp.com 1
Getting Started
If your computer was not shipped with a Microsoft operating
system, some portions of this documentation do not apply. For
complete operating system installation and configuration
instructions, refer to the operating system documentation.
Additional information is available in online help after you install
the operating system.
Microsoft Security Updates
This system has been delivered to you from the HP factory with
Microsoft Critical updates loaded on your system and ready for
installation that were available at the time of development. HP
and Microsoft strongly recommend that you install the Microsoft
Security Updates loaded on your system, and then connect to the
Microsoft Windows update Web site to acquire any additional
critical Microsoft Security updates recommended for your
operating system.
Installing Microsoft Critical Updates that are
Loaded on the System
Please install the critical updates that were loaded on the system
before connecting to the Internet.
1. Click Start > All Programs > Software Setup. The
Welcome screen appears.
2. On the Welcome screen, click Next.
a. If Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack Hotfixes
appears as a Software Setup application choice, ensure
that it is checked.
b. If Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack Hotfixes does
not appear as a Software Setup application choice, then
the updates were preinstalled at the factory. Click Cancel
and proceed to step 5.
2 www.hp.com Getting Started
3. Click Next to proceed with the installation.
A status bar indicating the progress of the installation is
displayed.
4. From the Setup Complete window, click Finish to reboot the
computer.
5. Proceed with the steps in the Downloading Updates from
the Microsoft Windows Update Web site section to ensure
you have all of the latest updates for your system.
Downloading Updates from the Microsoft
Windows Update Web Site
1. To set up your Internet connection, click Start > Internet
Explorer and follow the instructions on the screen.
2. Once an Internet connection has been established, click the
Start button.
3. Select the All Programs menu.
Click on the Windows Update link at the top of the menu.
Getting Started
You will be directed to the Microsoft Windows Update Web
site.
You may see one or more pop-up windows that will ask you
to install a program from
4. Click Ye s to install the programs from
www.microsoft.com.
www.microsoft.com.
5. Click the Scan for Updates link when it appears.
After scanning, click the Critical Updates and Service
Packs link when it appears under the heading Pick updates
to install.
A list of updates will appear with all updates selected by
default.
It is recommended that you install all of the updates listed in
this section.
Getting Started www.hp.com 3
Getting Started
6. Click on the Review and Install Updates link.
7. Click the Install Now button. This will start downloading the
critical updates and automatically install them.
8. After the updates have been installed, Windows XP will
prompt you to reboot the machine. Be sure to save any files or
documents that you may have open before rebooting. Then
select Ye s to reboot the machine.
Accessibility
HP is committed to designing products, services, and programs
with improved usability and accessibility for all customers. HP
products with Microsoft Windows XP preinstalled, or that are XP
Ready, are designed for accessibility. These products are tested
with industry-leading Assistive Technology products to ensure
equal access—anytime, anywhere . . . to anyone.
Installing or Upgrading Device Drivers
When installing optional hardware devices after the operating
system installation is complete, you must also install the drivers
for each of the devices.
If prompted for the I386 directory, replace the path specification
C:\i386, or use the Browse button in the dialog box to
with
locate the i386 folder. This action points the operating system to
the appropriate drivers.
Obtain the latest support software, including support software for
the operating system from
www.hp.com/support. Select your
country and language, select Download drivers and software,
enter the model number of the computer, and press
4 www.hp.com Getting Started
Enter.
You can also obtain the latest support software on CDs. The
following Web site provides information on how to purchase a
support software CD subscription:
http://h18000.www1.hp.com/support/files/desktops/us/purcha
se.html
If the computer has a writable optical drive, install the appropriate
✎
application to be able to write to the drive (see the CDs that came
with the system).
Customizing the Monitor Display
If you wish, you can select or change the monitor model, refresh
rates, screen resolution, color settings, font sizes, and power
management settings. To do so, right-click on the Windows
Desktop, then click Properties to change display settings. For
more information, refer to the online documentation provided
with the graphics controller utility or the documentation that
came with your monitor.
Getting Started
Protecting the Software
To protect the software from loss or damage, keep a backup copy
of all system software, applications, and related files stored on the
hard drive. Refer to the operating system or backup utility
documentation for instructions on making backup copies of your
data files.
Transferring Files and Settings
Use the Microsoft Windows XP Files and Settings Transfer
Wizard to move files and settings from the old computer to the
new one. Click Start > All Programs > Accessories > System
Too ls > Files and Settings Transfer Wizard.
Getting Started www.hp.com 5
Getting Started
Restoring the Software
Restore the original operating system and factory-installed
software by using the Restore Plus! CD and any other CDs that
came with the computer. Carefully read and follow the
instructions provided for the restore solution that came with the
computer.
For questions about or problems with this CD, please contact
customer support.
Turning Off the Computer
To properly turn off the computer, first shut down the operating
system software. In Microsoft Windows XP Professional, click
Start > Shut Down. In Microsoft Windows XP Home, click
Start > Turn Off Computer. The computer automatically shuts
down.
Depending on the operating system, pressing the power button
causes the computer to enter a low-power or “standby” state
instead of automatically turning the power off. This allows you to
conserve energy without closing software applications; later, you
can start using the computer immediately without having to
restart the operating system and without losing any data.
CAUTION: Manually forcing the computer off bypasses the
Ä
standby state and can cause loss of unsaved data.
To force the computer off manually, press and hold the power
button for four seconds.
On some models, you can reconfigure the power button to work
in On/Off mode by running Computer Setup. Refer to the
Computer Setup (F10) Utility Guide on the Documentation and
Diagnostics CD for more information about using the Computer
Setup utility.
6 www.hp.com Getting Started
Finding More Information
Refer to the Documentation and Diagnostics CD for additional
product information in easy to access PDF format. The CD
contains the following publications:
■ Quick Setup (available in print and Adobe Acrobat PDF on
the CD) Helps you connect the computer and peripheral
devices.
■ Getting Started (available in print and PDF on the CD) Helps
you set up factory-provided software; also includes basic
troubleshooting information should you encounter any
problems during initial startup.
■ Hardware Reference Guide (PDF on the CD) Provides an
overview of the product hardware, as well as instructions for
upgrading this series of computers, and includes information
on RTC batteries, memory, and power supply.
■ Computer Setup (F10) Utility Guide (PDF on the CD)
Provides instructions on using this tool to reconfigure or
modify default settings for maintenance purposes or when
installing new hardware devices.
Getting Started
■ Desktop Management Guide (PDF on the CD) Provides
definitions and “how to” instructions for security and
Intelligent Manageability features that are preinstalled on
some models.
■ Network & Internet Communications Guide (PDF on the CD)
Provides basic networking information and instructions for
installing device drivers and using network interface
controller (NIC) features preinstalled on some desktop
models; also provides information about Internet Service
Providers and using the Internet.
■ Troubleshooting Guide (PDF on the CD)
A comprehensive guide that provides helpful hints for
troubleshooting this computer and scenarios for resolving
Getting Started www.hp.com 7
Getting Started
possible hardware or software problems; includes
information about diagnostic codes, as well as information on
running the diagnostics utility.
■ Safety & Regulatory Information Guide (PDF on the CD)
Provides safety and regulatory information that ensures
compliance with U.S., Canadian, and various international
regulations.
If you do not have an optical drive capable of reading CDs, you
✎
may download the product documentation from the Web at
http://www.hp.com/support. Select your country and language,
select See support and troubleshooting information, enter the
model number of the computer, and press Enter.
Using the Documentation and Diagnostics CD
1. Insert the CD into the optical drive.
There may be a slight delay while the software on the CD
checks the Windows Regional Settings. If a recent version of
Adobe Acrobat or Acrobat Reader is not found on the
computer, it will be installed automatically from the CD.
2. Read and follow the prompts to complete the installation.
The menu and books are displayed in the language chosen
during initial system setup or as specified later in the
Windows Regional Settings. If the Regional Settings do not
match one of the languages supported on the CD, the menu
and books are displayed in English.
3. Click the title of the book you want to read.
If there is no optical drive activity for two minutes or more, it may
be that Autorun is not enabled on the computer.
8 www.hp.com Getting Started
Getting Started
To ru n th e Documentation and Diagnostics CD if it does not run
automatically:
1. Click Start > Run.
2. Type:
X:\DocLib.exe
(where
3. Click OK.
If the computer is running a Linux operating system, the
Documentation and Diagnostics CD will not autorun. To view the
documents on the CD, download and install Adobe Acrobat
Reader for Linux from
X is the drive letter designator for the optical drive)
www.adobe.com.
Before You Call for Technical Support
If you are having problems with the computer, try the appropriate
solutions below to try to isolate the exact problem before calling
for technical support.
■ Run the diagnostics utility. Refer to the Troubleshooting
Guide on the Documentation and Diagnostics CD for more
information.
■ Run the Drive Protection System (DPS) Self-Test in
Computer Setup. Refer to the Computer Setup (F10) Utility
Guide on the Documentation and Diagnostics CD for more
information.
The Drive Protection System (DPS) Self-Test software is
✎
available on some models only.
Getting Started www.hp.com 9
Getting Started
■ Check the power LED on the front of the computer to see if it
■ If the screen is blank, plug the monitor into a different video
■ If you are working on a network, plug another computer with
■ If you recently added new hardware, remove the hardware
■ If you recently installed new software, uninstall the software
■ Boot the computer to the Safe Mode to see if it will boot
is flashing red. The flashing lights are error codes that will
help you diagnose the problem. Refer to “Interpreting
Diagnostic Lights and Audible Codes” on page 25 in this
guide for details.
port on the computer if one is available. Or, change out the
monitor with a monitor that you know is working properly.
a different cable into the network connection. There may be a
problem with the network plug or cable.
and see if the computer functions properly.
and see if the computer functions properly.
without all of the drivers loaded. When booting the operating
system, use “Last Known Configuration.”
■ Refer to the comprehensive online technical support at
www.hp.com/support.
■ Refer to “Helpful Hints” on page 12 in this guide for more
general suggestions.
■ Refer to the comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide on the
Documentation and Diagnostics CD for more detailed
information.
■ Run the Restore Plus! CD.
CAUTION: Running the Restore CD will erase all data on the hard
Ä
drive.
10 www.hp.com Getting Started
Getting Started
To assist you in resolving problems online, HP Instant Support
Professional Edition provides you with self-solve diagnostics. If
you need to contact HP support, use HP Instant Support
Profession Edition's online chat feature. Access HP Instant
Support Professional Edition at:
Access the Business Support Center (BSC) at
www.hp.com/go/bizsupport for the latest online support
information, software and drivers, proactive notification, and
worldwide community of peers and HP experts.
If it becomes necessary to call for technical assistance, be
prepared to do the following to ensure that your service call is
handled properly:
■ Be in front of your computer when you call.
■ Write down the computer serial number and product ID
number, and the monitor serial number before calling.
■ Spend time troubleshooting the problem with the service
technician.
www.hp.com/go/ispe.
■ Remove any hardware that was recently added to your
system.
■ Remove any software that was recently installed.
■ Run the Restore Plus! CD.
CAUTION: Running the Restore CD will erase all data on the hard
Ä
drive.
For sales information and warranty upgrades (HP Care Pack), call
✎
an authorized service provider or dealer.
Getting Started www.hp.com 11
Getting Started
Helpful Hints
If you encounter problems with the computer, monitor, or
software, see the following list of general suggestions before
taking further action:
■ Check that the computer and monitor are plugged into a
working electrical outlet.
■ Check to see that the voltage select switch (some models) is
set to the appropriate voltage for your region (115V or 230V).
■ Check to see that the computer is turned on and the green
power light is on.
■ Check to see that the monitor is turned on and the green
monitor light is on.
■ Check the power LED on the front of the computer to see if it
is flashing red. The flashing lights are error codes that will
help you diagnose the problem. Refer to “Interpreting
Diagnostic Lights and Audible Codes” on page 25 in this
guide for details.
■ Turn up the brightness and contrast controls of the monitor if
the monitor is dim.
■ Press and hold any key. If the system beeps, then the
keyboard should be operating correctly.
■ Check all cable connections for loose connections or
incorrect connections.
■ Wake the computer by pressing any key on the keyboard or
pressing the power button. If the system remains in suspend
mode, shut down the computer by pressing and holding the
power button for at least four seconds then press the power
button again to restart the computer. If the system will not
shut down, unplug the power cord, wait a few seconds, then
12 www.hp.com Getting Started
Getting Started
plug it in again. The computer will restart if automatic start
on power loss is set in Computer Setup. If it does not restart,
press the power button to start the computer.
■ Reconfigure your computer after installing a non–plug and
play expansion board or other option. See “Solving Hardware
Installation Problems” on page 22 for instructions.
■ Be sure that all the needed device drivers have been installed.
For example, if you are using a printer, you need a driver for
that model printer.
■ Remove all bootable media (diskette, CD, or USB device)
from the system before turning it on.
■ If you have installed an operating system other than the
factory-installed operating system, check to be sure that it is
supported on the system.
Getting Started www.hp.com 13
Getting Started
■ If the system has multiple video sources (embedded, PCI, or
CAUTION: When the computer is plugged into an AC power
Ä
source, there is always voltage applied to the system board. You must
disconnect the power cord from the power source before opening the
computer to prevent system board or component damage.
PCI-Express adapters) installed (embedded video on some
models only) and a single monitor, the monitor must be
plugged into the monitor connector on the source selected as
the primary VGA adapter. During boot, the other monitor
connectors are disabled and if the monitor is connected into
these ports, the monitor will not function. You can select
which source will be the default VGA source in Computer
Setup.
14 www.hp.com Getting Started
Basic Troubleshooting
This section concentrates on problems that you might encounter
during the initial set up process. A comprehensive
Troubleshooting Guide is available on the Documentation and
Diagnostics CD and under the reference library at
http://www.hp.com/support. Select your country and language,
select See support and troubleshooting information, enter the
model number of the computer, and press
Solving General Problems
You may be able to easily resolve the general problems described
in this section. If a problem persists and you are unable to resolve
it yourself or if you feel uncomfortable about performing the
operation, contact an authorized dealer or reseller.
Solving General Problems
Problem Cause Solution
Computer appears
locked up and will
not turn off when the
power button is
pressed.
Computer will not
respond to USB
keyboard or mouse.
CAUTION: When attempting to resume from standby mode, do not
Ä
hold down the power button for more than four seconds. Otherwise, the
computer will shut down and you will lose your unsaved data.
Software control of
the power switch is
not functional.
Computer is in
standby mode.
System has locked
up.
Enter.
Press and hold the power button
for at least four seconds until the
computer turns off.
Press the power button to
resume from standby mode.
Restart computer.
Getting Started
Getting Started www.hp.com 15
Getting Started
Solving General Problems (Continued)
Problem Cause Solution
Computer date and
time display is
incorrect.
Cursor will not move
using the arrow keys
on the keypad.
Cannot remove
computer cover or
access panel.
RTC (real-time clock)
battery may need to
be replaced.
Connecting
✎
the computer
to a live AC
outlet
prolongs the
life of the
RTC battery.
The Num Lock key
may be on.
Smart Cover Lock,
featured on some
computers, is locked.
This feature
✎
is not
available
on all
models.
First, reset the date and time
under Control Panel
(Computer Setup can also be
used to update the RTC date
and time). If the problem
persists, replace the RTC battery.
See the Hardware Reference
Guide on the Documentation
and Diagnostics CD for
instructions on installing a new
battery, or contact an
authorized dealer or reseller for
RTC battery replacement.
Press the Num Lock key. The
Num Lock light should not be on
if you want to use the arrow
keys. The Num Lock key can
be disabled (or enabled) in
Computer Setup.
Unlock the Smart Cover Lock
using Computer Setup.
The Smart Cover FailSafe Key, a
device for manually disabling
the Smart Cover Lock, is
available from HP. You will need
the FailSafe Key in case of
forgotten password, power loss,
or computer malfunction.
16 www.hp.com Getting Started
Solving General Problems (Continued)
Problem Cause Solution
Poor performance is
experienced.
Processor is hot. 1. Make sure the airflow to
the computer is not
blocked. Leave a 4-inch
(10.2-cm) clearance at the
back of unit and above the
monitor to permit required
airflow.
2. Make sure the fans are
connected and working
properly (some fans only
operate when needed).
3. Make sure the processor
heatsink is installed
properly.
Hard drive is full. Transfer data from the hard
drive to create more space on
the hard drive.
Low on memory. Add more memory.
Hard drive
fragmented.
Program previously
accessed did not
release reserved
memory back to the
system.
Virus resident on the
hard drive.
Too many
applications running.
Defragment hard drive.
Restart the computer.
Run virus protection program.
1. Close unnecessary
applications to free up
memory.
2. Add more memory.
Getting Started
Getting Started www.hp.com 17
Getting Started
Solving General Problems (Continued)
Problem Cause Solution
Poor performance is
experienced.
(continued)
Some software
applications,
especially games,
are stressful on the
graphics subsystem.
Cause unknown. Restart the computer.
1. Lower the display resolution
for the current application
or consult the
documentation that came
with the application for
suggestions on how to
improve performance by
adjusting parameters in the
application.
2. Add more memory.
3. Upgrade the graphics
solution.
18 www.hp.com Getting Started
Solving General Problems (Continued)
Problem Cause Solution
Computer powered
off automatically and
the Power LED
flashes Red two
times, once every
second, followed by
a two-second pause,
and the computer
beeps two times. The
beeps continue for
five iterations, then
stop. The LED flashes
continue until the
problem is resolved.
Processor thermal
protection activated:
A fan may be
blocked or not
turning.
OR
The heatsink is not
properly attached to
the processor.
1. Ensure that the computer
air vents are not blocked
and the processor cooling
fan is running. Leave a
4-inch (10.2-cm) clearance
at the back of unit and
above the monitor to permit
required airflow.
2. Open hood, press power
button, and see if the
processor fan spins. If the
processor fan is not
spinning, make sure the
fan's cable is plugged onto
the system board header.
Ensure the fan is
fully/properly seated or
installed.
3. If fan is plugged in and
seated properly, but is not
spinning, then replace the
processor fan.
4. Reseat processor heatsink
and verify that the fan
assembly is properly
attached.
5. Contact an authorized
reseller or service provider.
Getting Started
Getting Started www.hp.com 19
Getting Started
Solving General Problems (Continued)
Problem Cause Solution
System does not
power on and the
LEDs on the front of
the computer are not
flashing.
System unable to
power on.
Press and hold the power button
for less than 4 seconds. If the
hard drive LED turns green,
then:
1. Check that the voltage
selector, located on the rear
of the power supply on
some models, is set to the
appropriate voltage. Proper
voltage setting depends on
your region.
2. Remove the expansion
cards one at a time until the
5 V_aux light on the system
board turns on.
3. Replace the system board.
20 www.hp.com Getting Started
Solving General Problems (Continued)
Problem Cause Solution
System does not
power on and the
LEDs on the front of
the computer are not
flashing.
(continued)
OR
Press and hold the power button
for less than 4 seconds. If the
hard drive LED does not turn on
green then:
1. Check that the unit is
plugged into a working AC
outlet.
2. Open hood and check that
the power button harness is
properly connected to the
system board.
3. Check that both power
supply cables are properly
connected to the system
board.
4. Check to see if the 5 V_aux
light on the system board is
turned on. If it is turned on,
then replace the power
button harness.
5. If the 5 V_aux light on the
system board is not turned
on, then replace the power
supply.
6. Replace the system board.
Getting Started
Getting Started www.hp.com 21
Getting Started
Solving Hardware Installation Problems
You may need to reconfigure the computer when you add or
remove hardware, such as an additional drive or expansion card.
If you install a plug and play device, Windows XP automatically
recognizes the device and configures the computer. If you install
a non–plug and play device, you must reconfigure the computer
after completing installation of the new hardware. In Windows
XP, use the Add Hardware Wizard and follow the instructions
that appear on the screen.
Solving Hardware Installation Problems
Problem Cause Solution
A new device is not
recognized as part
of the system.
Device is not seated
or connected
properly.
Cable(s) of new
external device are
loose or power
cables are
unplugged.
Power switch of new
external device is not
turned on.
When the system
advised you of
changes to the
configuration, you
did not accept them.
Ensure that the device is
properly and securely connected
and that pins in the connector
are not bent down.
Ensure that all cables are
properly and securely connected
and that pins in the cable or
connector are not bent down.
Turn off the computer, turn on
the external device, then turn on
the computer to integrate the
device with the computer
system.
Reboot the computer and follow
the instructions for accepting the
changes.
22 www.hp.com Getting Started
Getting Started
Solving Hardware Installation Problems (Continued)
Problem Cause Solution
A new device is not
recognized as part
of the system.
(continued)
Computer will not
start.
Power LED flashes
Red five times, once
every second,
followed by a
two-second pause,
and the computer
beeps five times. The
beeps continue for
five iterations, then
stop. The LED flashes
continue until the
problem is resolved.
A plug and play
board may not
automatically
configure when
added if the default
configuration
conflicts with other
devices.
Wrong memory
modules were used
in the upgrade or
memory modules
were installed in the
wrong location.
Memory is installed
incorrectly or is bad.
Use Windows XP Device
Manager to deselect the
automatic settings for the board
and choose a basic
configuration that does not
cause a resource conflict. You
can also use Computer Setup to
reconfigure or disable devices to
resolve the resource conflict.
1. Review the documentation
that came with the system
to determine if you are
using the correct memory
modules and to verify the
proper installation.
2. Observe the beeps and
LED lights on the front of the
computer. See “Interpreting
Diagnostic Lights and
Audible Codes” on
page 25 to determine
possible causes.
3. If you still cannot resolve
the issue, contact Customer
Support.
1. Reseat DIMMs. Power on
the system.
2. Replace DIMMs one at a
time to isolate the faulty
module.
3. Replace third-party memory
with HP memory.
4. Replace the system board.
Getting Started www.hp.com 23
Getting Started
Solving Hardware Installation Problems (Continued)
Problem Cause Solution
Power LED flashes
Red six times, once
every second,
followed by a
two-second pause,
and the computer
beeps six times. The
beeps continue for
five iterations, then
stop. The LED flashes
continue until the
problem is resolved.
Power LED flashes
Red ten times, once
every second,
followed by a
two-second pause,
and the computer
beeps ten times. The
beeps continue for
five iterations, then
stop. The LED flashes
continue until the
problem is resolved.
Graphics card is not
seated properly or is
bad, or system
board is bad.
Bad option card. 1. Check each option card by
For systems with a graphics
card:
1. Reseat the graphics card.
Power on the system.
2. Replace the graphics card.
3. Replace the system board.
For systems with integrated
graphics, replace the system
board.
removing the cards one at
a time (if multiple cards),
then power on the system to
see if fault goes away.
2. Once bad card is
identified, remove and
replace bad option card.
3. Replace the system board.
24 www.hp.com Getting Started
Getting Started
Interpreting Diagnostic Lights and Audible Codes
This section covers the front panel LED codes as well as the
audible codes that may occur before or during POST that do not
necessarily have an error code or text message associated with
them.
If you see flashing LEDs on a PS/2 keyboard, look for flashing
✎
LEDs on the front panel of the computer and refer to the
following table to determine the front panel LED codes.
The audible code sequence will repeat 5 times and then stop. The
✎
front panel LED codes will continue until the error is resolved.
Recommended actions in the following table are listed in the
✎
order in which they should be performed.
Diagnostic Front Panel LEDs and Audible Codes
Possible
Activity Beeps
Green Power LED
On.
Green Power LED
flashes every two
seconds.
Getting Started www.hp.com 25
None Computer on. None
None Computer in
Cause
Suspend to RAM
mode (only on
some models) or
normal Suspend
mode.
Recommended
Action
None required. Press any
key or move the mouse to
wake the computer.
Getting Started
Diagnostic Front Panel LEDs and Audible Codes
Activity Beeps
Red Power LED
flashes two times,
once every
second, followed
by a two-second
pause. The beeps
continue for five
iterations, then
stop. The LED
flashes continue
until the problem
is resolved.
2 Processor thermal
Possible
Cause
protection
activated:
A fan may be
blocked or not
turning.
OR
The heatsink/fan
assembly is not
properly attached
to the processor.
Recommended
Action
1. Ensure that the
computer air vents
are not blocked and
the processor cooling
fan is running. Leave
a 4-inch (10.2-cm)
clearance at the back
of unit and above the
monitor to permit
required airflow.
2. Open hood, press
power button, and
see if the processor
fan spins. If the
processor fan is not
spinning, make sure
the fan's cable is
plugged onto the
system board header.
Ensure the fan is
fully/properly seated
or installed.
3. If fan is plugged in
and seated properly,
but is not spinning,
then replace
processor fan.
4. Reseat processor
heatsink and verify
that the fan assembly
is properly attached.
5. Contact an
authorized reseller or
service provider.
26 www.hp.com Getting Started
Getting Started
Diagnostic Front Panel LEDs and Audible Codes
Activity Beeps
Red Power LED
flashes three
times, once every
second, followed
by a two-second
pause. The beeps
continue for five
iterations, then
stop. The LED
flashes continue
until the problem
is resolved.
3 Processor is not
Possible
Cause
seated properly or
not installed (not
an indicator of bad
processor).
Recommended
Action
1. Check to see that the
processor is present.
2. Reseat the processor.
Getting Started www.hp.com 27
Getting Started
Diagnostic Front Panel LEDs and Audible Codes
Activity Beeps
Red Power LED
flashes four
times, once every
second, followed
by a two-second
pause. The beeps
continue for five
iterations, then
stop. The LED
flashes continue
until the problem
is resolved.
4 Power failure
Possible
Cause
(power supply is
overloaded).
Recommended
Action
1. Open the hood and
ensure the 4-wire
power supply cable
is seated into the
connector on the
system board.
2. Check if a device is
causing the problem
by removing ALL
attached devices
(such as hard,
diskette, or optical
drives, and
expansion cards).
Power on the system.
If the system enters
the POST, then power
off and replace one
device at a time and
repeat this procedure
until failure occurs.
Replace the device
that is causing the
failure. Continue
adding devices one
at a time to ensure all
devices are
functioning properly.
3. Replace the power
supply.
4. Replace the system
board.
28 www.hp.com Getting Started
Getting Started
Diagnostic Front Panel LEDs and Audible Codes
Activity Beeps
Red Power LED
flashes five times,
once every
second, followed
by a two-second
pause. The beeps
continue for five
iterations, then
stop. The LED
flashes continue
until the problem
is resolved.
Red Power LED
flashes six times,
once every
second, followed
by a two-second
pause. The beeps
continue for five
iterations, then
stop. The LED
flashes continue
until the problem
is resolved.
5 Pre-video memory
6 Pre-video graphics
Possible
Cause
error
error.
Recommended
Action
1. Reseat DIMMs. Power
on the system.
2. Replace DIMMs one
at a time to isolate
the faulty module.
3. Replace third-party
memory with HP
memory.
4. Replace the system
board.
For systems with a
graphics card:
1. Reseat the graphics
card. Power on the
system.
2. Replace the graphics
card.
3. Replace the system
board.
For systems with
integrated graphics,
replace the system board.
Getting Started www.hp.com 29
Getting Started
Diagnostic Front Panel LEDs and Audible Codes
Activity Beeps
Red Power LED
flashes seven
times, once every
second, followed
by a two-second
pause. The beeps
continue for five
iterations, then
stop. The LED
flashes continue
until the problem
is resolved.
Red Power LED
flashes eight
times, once every
second, followed
by a two-second
pause. The beeps
continue for five
iterations, then
stop. The LED
flashes continue
until the problem
is resolved.
7 System board
8 Invalid ROM based
Possible
Cause
failure (ROM
detected failure
prior to video).
on bad checksum.
Recommended
Action
Replace the system board.
1. Reflash the ROM
using a ROMPaq
diskette. See the
“ROM Flash” section
of the Desktop
Management Guide
on the
Documentation and
Diagnostics CD.
2. Replace the system
board.
30 www.hp.com Getting Started
Getting Started
Diagnostic Front Panel LEDs and Audible Codes
Activity Beeps
Red Power LED
flashes nine
times, once every
second, followed
by a two-second
pause. The beeps
continue for five
iterations, then
stop. The LED
flashes continue
until the problem
is resolved.
Red Power LED
flashes ten times,
once every
second, followed
by a two-second
pause. The beeps
continue for five
iterations, then
stop. The LED
flashes continue
until the problem
is resolved.
9 System powers on
10 Bad option card. 1. Check each option
Possible
Cause
but is unable to
boot.
Recommended
Action
1. Check that the
voltage selector,
located on the rear of
the power supply
(some models), is set
to the appropriate
voltage. Proper
voltage setting
depends on your
region.
2. Replace the system
board.
3. Replace the
processor.
card by removing the
card (one at a time if
multiple cards), then
power on the system
to see if fault goes
away.
2. Once a bad card is
identified, remove
and replace the bad
option card.
3. Replace the system
board.
Getting Started www.hp.com 31
Getting Started
Diagnostic Front Panel LEDs and Audible Codes
Activity Beeps
System does not
power on and
LEDs are not
flashing.
None System unable to
Possible
Cause
power on.
Recommended
Action
Press and hold the power
button for less than 4
seconds. If the hard drive
LED turns green, then:
1. Check that the
voltage selector,
located on the rear of
the power supply, is
set to the appropriate
voltage. Proper
voltage setting
depends on your
region.
2. Remove the
expansion cards one
at a time until the 5
V_aux light on the
system board turns
on.
3. Replace the system
board.
32 www.hp.com Getting Started
Getting Started
Diagnostic Front Panel LEDs and Audible Codes
Activity Beeps
System does not
power on and
LEDs are not
flashing.
(continued)
Possible
Cause
Recommended
Action
OR
Press and hold the power
button for less than 4
seconds. If the hard drive
LED does not turn on
green then:
1. Check that the unit is
plugged into a
working AC outlet.
2. Open hood and
check that the power
button harness is
properly connected
to the system board.
3. Check that both
power supply cables
are properly
connected to the
system board.
4. Check to see if the
5V_aux light on the
system board is
turned on. If it is
turned on, then
replace the power
button harness.
5. If the 5V_aux light on
the system board is
not turned on, then
replace the power
supply.
6. Replace the system
board.
Getting Started www.hp.com 33
Loading...