Restart your computer and watch the screen for error messages and other announcements. As your computer starts up, it performs a number of self-tests, checking the PC's memory and other hardware components. Screen messages will announce the successful completion of a test or display error messages when there are problems.
Table 1 lists some of the error messages you might encounter when your PC first starts, what they mean, and what you can do about them. Note that the exact form of an error message will vary depending on the make and version of the computer's BIOS.
ERROR MESSAGE |
WHAT IT MEANS |
WHAT TO DO |
|---|---|---|
Non-system disk or disk error |
The system is trying to boot from a disk with no operating system. |
Remove a floppy disk, CD, or DVD from its drive. |
Missing operating system Operating system not found |
The computer can't find an operating system. |
Check hard drive settings in CMOS setup program. |
Memory address error Memory test fail Memory parity error at xxx |
There is a problem with the system RAM. |
Remove and reseat memory modules. |
Primary master hard disk fail Hard disk drive failure C: drive failure Not reading drive C: Fixed disk 0 failure |
The system can't find the hard drive. |
Check hard drive settings in CMOS setup program. Check the hard drive's power data cable connections. |
KB/interface error Gate A20 failure Keyboard error |
There is a problem with the keyboard. |
Disconnect and reconnect the keyboard. Check for stuck keys. |
CMOS checksum error CMOS checksum bad |
Your system has detected a change in the CMOS settings; a weak CMOS battery can cause this. |
Try opening and closing the CMOS setup program. You may have to re-enter your CMOS settings. |
CMOS battery state low system CMOS battery failed |
CMOS battery is low. |
Replace the CMOS battery. |
