Problem with computer

[johncharding]

  I have a Sony Pentium 4 Desk top, which  when powered up the fan runs but thats all it does not boot into windows. I then power it down and try again. After several tries it beebs and then I know its OK and will launch windows XP. Ive tried it with nothing plugged in not even the monitor. Still same problem.
My thoughts are a Power supply problem but before I go and get a replacement.Can anybody help. Have you has a similar problem?

[BillyH]

My thoughts are a RAM problem in the lower address range

To eliminate this - down load a free bootable Memory checker - follow the instructions to make a bootable CD then run it

It will test your RAM so you can ID any problems

If it isnt this post again and i'll have another think

[TURTLEC]

I've seen similar problems before where the machine seems to power up but Windows does not start.

The last time it occurred it was an overheating problem. (strange at boot up time but there you go).

This was on a friends DELL PC and what had happened was that the Heat Sync had come loose
and was not doing its job.

This can also be caused by excessive dust build up around the 'box' or fan.

You might try booting up with the case open before doing anything too brutal.

[Liam]

If you have a second pc google Beep tests.
The number of beeps that the PC/laptop gives is a help to what the problem is.
I would agree with the previous owner saying it is the ram. 
Take out the ram and put it back in.  I found sometimes that it is just a contact problem especially if it is an intermittent problem.

More about beep tests here
http://www.pchell.com/hardware/beepcodes.shtml

Hope they are some help,
Liam
    Standard Original IBM POST Error Codes

1 short beep
   Normal POST - system is ok
2 short beeps    POST Error - error code shown on screen
No beep    Power supply or system board problem
Continuous beep    Power supply, system board, or keyboard problem
Repeating short beeps    Power supply or system board problem
1 long, 1 short beep    System board problem
1 long, 2 short beeps    Display adapter problem (MDA, CGA)
1 long, 3 short beeps    Enhanced  Graphics Adapter (EGA)
3 long beeps    3270 keyboard card

[johncharding]

Thanks Guys

I'll keep you posted.

 

[johncharding]

Hi

I said I would keep you posted.

Up until now the Sony PC has booted up either first time, mostly 2nd time or I have had to switch off up to three times.

Presently living with it in the hope it will go away. Backing up religiously to external drive.

 Like to hear from anyone has cured  the same problem.

John