User Manual

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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 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: Failure in the installation of the Audio driver.
Solution: Be sure to first remove the current audio device from
your system. Please follow the instruction on the installation of
audio driver.
Problem: The display screen is dark
Solution: Make sure that the computer is not in Suspend mode.
Check the Brightness controls for the screen. If the controls are
turned too far down, the screen will be dark.
Problem: An incorrect date and time are displayed.
Solution: Correct the date and time using the DOS DATE and
TIME commands or the options in the Setup Utility. If the date and
time become incorrect after a short time, your CMOS battery may
be depleted. Contact your dealer to change the battery.
Problem: You hear irregular beeps during operation of the
Notebook and the system halts.