IBM Aptiva Hardware Handbook page 51

Step 3
Is anything displayed on the monitor?
There is a problem with the system unit if:
Yes
•
A three or four digit error code appears. Find the code in "Error codes, descriptions, and corrective actions" on
page 52, and take the action listed.
•
A box containing an error code and message appears. Follow the instructions in the message. For instructions on
using the Configuration/Setup Utility, see page 61.
•
A blinking cursor appears. Check your Services and Support Guide for information on obtaining service.
•
The image on the screen is unreadable (the image is scrolling, blinking, or flashing). Follow these steps:
a. You may have selected a Monitor Horizontal Frequency setting that your monitor does not support. Follow the
steps under "Monitor Horizontal Frequency" on page 9 to select another setting.
b. Complete these steps to reset your computer:
1. Disable the Power-on Password option in the Security feature of the Configuration/Setup Utility.
2. Record any Configuration settings that you have changed (customized) from the default settings (for
example, Monitor Horizontal Frequency). You will have to re-enter these later. For instructions on using the
Configuration/Setup Utility, see page 61.
3. Turn off the system unit. Reset your computer by holding down both mouse buttons while you turn on the
system unit. Release the mouse buttons when something appears on your screen.
Note: Resetting your computer changes all of the settings in the Configuration/Setup Utility to the factory
defaults. After resetting your computer, re-enter any customized settings in the Configuration/Setup
Utility.
•
The colors displayed are wrong. Check to make sure the monitor cable is correctly and securely connected to the
system unit. Your Read Me First booklet shows how the cable should be connected.
•
Nothing happens when you use the mouse or keyboard.
a. Make sure the keyboard and mouse cables are correctly and securely connected to the ports on the back of
the system unit.
The keyboard port has this symbol next to it to help you:
The mouse port has this symbol next to it to help you:
b. Turn the system unit off, and then turn it on again.
If the problem you are having does not appear in this list, look for a description of the problem in the troubleshooting
tables that begin on page 42.
No There is a problem with the monitor.
a. Make sure your monitor cables are correctly and securely connected. Your Read Me First booklet shows how the
cables should be connected.
b. Adjust the brightness and contrast controls. For instructions, see "Adjusting monitor controls" on page 4.
If the problem continues, check your Services and Support Guide for information on obtaining service.
Problem solving steps 41