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View Full Version : Blank Screen During W2k Boot-up (W2K)



AllenReyes
03-20-2003, 11:46 AM
Hello everyone. This one's got me stumped ... Here's the scenario.

System Specs: DELL Precision 340 Workstation, Windows 2K, 256 MB RAM

Problem: Whenever someone powers on or restarts this workstation, about 2 out of 5 times W2K will load properly. The other 3 times, a blank screen appears right after the initial DELL BIOS boot-up. It doesn't even show the "Starting Windows 2000" process, its just a blank screen.

Attempted Solutions: I've swapped out the video card, monitor, primary HDD, disabled non-essential hardware, removed all PCI devices, and even polished the DELL logo on the case. Still having the same problem.

The only thing I did not replace was the memory module. The reason I think that this problem is *not* occurring because of bad memory is that once W2K loads, the user has no problems with the computer. Please correct me if I'm wrong. The last experience I've had with bad memory, the workstation kept freezing on the user. (Another long story...).

One test that DELL tech support had me do was boot from a DELL Resource CD. It worked every single time (Hope that this points someone to a solution). Any guidance will be MUCH appreciated.

Allen

Andy-S
03-21-2003, 02:45 PM
First thing I would do is clear CMOS. I have seen soem real flakey problems due to messed up CMOS settings.

If POST has completed then the next thing that occurs is the loading of the OS. If you have already tried replacing the HDD and you still have the same problem then try the CD drive in the primary IDE connector and see if it boots every time. This will help you determine if it is the controller on the motherboard.

Let me know the results.

Cheers
Andy

AllenReyes
03-21-2003, 05:04 PM
Thanks for the reply Andy-S. DELL sent a replacement motherboard and I went ahead and replaced it. The problem was fixed. I was curious to see what other steps I could have taken to try to fix the issue. Do you have a link that shows how to clear the CMOS? (Just in case I need it...)

Thanks again!

Allen

Andy-S
03-21-2003, 10:01 PM
The method for clearing CMOS can be different for different motherboards. It is normally done by setting a switch or jumper or using a push button on the motherboard. In most cases it can be cleared by removing the battery.

The user manual for your motherboard or system will provide the details.

Cheers
Andy