Table of Contents
Advertisement
If the computer still does not start, you may have a hardware
problem.
The Power-On Self Test
The Power-On Self Test (POST) runs every time you turn on or reset
the Notebook. The POST checks memory, the main system board, the
display, the keyboard, the disk drives, and other installed options.
A few seconds after you turn on your computer, a copyright message
appears on your display screen. A memory test message appears next;
as the test continues, memory size increases until all installed memory
is tested. Normally, the only test routine visible on the screen will be
the memory test.
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.
97
Advertisement
Table of Contents
