IBM Aptiva Hardware Handbook page 57

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 60, 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 Setup Utility, see page 69.
•
A blinking cursor appears. Check your A Guide to HelpWare and All the Extras folder for information on obtaining
service.
•
The image on the screen is unreadable (the image is scrolling, blinking, or flashing). You may have selected a
monitor setting that your monitor does not support.
a. If you are working in Microsoft Windows:
Complete these steps to reset your computer, and then follow the steps under "To set the monitor resolution,
size of fonts, and number of colors follow these steps:" on page 11 to select another setting.
1. If you created a Power-on Password, disable it by using the Security Options menu of the 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
Setup Utility, see page 69.
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 Setup Utility to the factory defaults. After
resetting your computer, re-enter any customized settings in the Setup Utility.
b. If you are working in OS/2 Warp, follow these steps:
1. Turn the computer on. If the computer is already on, press the Ctrl, Alt, and Delete keys at the same time
to restart it.
2. When a small white box appears in the upper left corner of your screen, press the Alt and F1 keys at the
same time.
3. When the "Recovery Choices" screen appears, press V.
4. See "Setting up your monitor" on page 9 to choose the correct settings for your monitor.
5. Reinstall the video drivers. For instructions on reinstalling video drivers, see page 139.
(Steps continued on the next page.)
Problem solving steps 45