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Windows Forum / Windows 98 / General Topics / August 2007System is acting very strange - What do I do?
Hello. I am using an old Windows 98 computer that doesn't seem to work properly. Apart from all the hard drive and boot problems, there are more problems with the drivers on the computer. Here are the problems: 1. When I finally decided to try it (after some considerable time) it said that it found a permanent hard drive failure. What The? 2. At startup, the sound driver produces this loud 'BEEP'. I have no idea what it is, but it also happens when I insert the PC Card. There is also no sound. 3. After installing a mouse driver from a CD, it told me that the driver would be ready to use - after resolving a conflict. Do I fix it? Yes. But it doesn't let me! 4. The display settings are using the wrong color. "John, just change it in the Display properties!". Can't do that either. I was thinking of updating the drivers anyway. 5. After running a few programs on the computer, decided to stop editing the system files through DOS. Computer screen goes white and system stops responding. 6. There is some sort of program called 'Britticana 2005' installed on it. Have no idea what that is for. I guess that is why the person who gave it to us didn't pick up the laptop! 7. The keyboard doesn't work while I am in the 'Windows 98 Startup Menu'. Am I suppose to update the BIOS and Keyboard drivers as well? That is just some of the problems I found out. I suppose it is a virus, but I don't know how to install an antivirus program on it without the screen going blank. I am going to try the System Restore and MS-DOS Scandisk and Scanreg, but while it does that, I am going to have to study how to identify and remove a virus. Any help is really appreciated. John. | Hello. I am using an old Windows 98 computer that doesn't seem to work | properly. [quoted text clipped - 40 lines] | | John. Sure, maybe we can help... but you really have to give us something to work with... How about what make and model for the first answer. How about the exact error messages. How about what diagnostic routines you have already tried... As for the beeps, likely BIOS attempts to advise of issues, was there any pattern? And did you check the internal batteries for CMOS/BIOS and any other additional (some have three).  SignatureMEB http://peoplescounsel.orgfree.com ________ Opps, and Brittanica 2005 is likely an encyclopedia... I can answer most of those questions. The model is a Compaq Armada, however, I do not know the date that it was manafactured. The exact error messages looked something like this: "IntelliSafe detected a permanant hard disk error" I have tried to create a new user account, editing the 'WIN.ini' file and deleting all the users, but none of those worked. Yes, there was a pattern for the beeps - There were 2 short rising beeps, and it also happens when the PC Card is inserted. No, I couldn't check for CMOS/BIOS batteries. But the battery in the laptop does not charge at all. I hope this could answer some questions. John. > Sure, maybe we can help... but you really have to give us something to work > with... [quoted text clipped - 10 lines] > And did you check the internal batteries for CMOS/BIOS and any other > additional (some have three). | I can answer most of those questions. | | The model is a Compaq Armada, however, I do not know the date that it was | manafactured. The exact error messages looked something like this: It still may be useful to have the model number if available... like e***, v***, 7400, 7800, m300, m700, etc. | "IntelliSafe detected a permanant hard disk error" Okay, doesn't look good: United States Patent 6980381 - http://www.patentstorm.us/patents/6980381-description.html But on the HP/Compaq site there is some mention of specific hard drives [Hitachi,,,] with problems, apparently requiring a firmware update/upgrade. But without the model number this is all a "shot in the dark". http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/Product.jsp?lang=en&cc=us&prodC lassId=-1&prodTypeId=321957&prodCatId=82710&prodSubCatId=89335 - pick your model | I have tried to create a new user account, editing the 'WIN.ini' file and | deleting all the users, but none of those worked. Okay, NIX the file modifications for a bit... | Yes, there was a pattern for the beeps - There were 2 short rising beeps, | and it also happens when the PC Card is inserted. Let's get the model and specs out of the way.... | No, I couldn't check for CMOS/BIOS batteries. But the battery in the laptop | does not charge at all. That's not good. When those go bad [unless its a *new defect* rather than too many deep discharges] you have a real good indication that the interior batteries [CMOS/other] need checked. It has been noted [laptop forums mainly], that some laptops do not work well without SOME battery power available. | I hope this could answer some questions. | | John. They did, and it doesn't look good, but let's at least look at the specific model number specs. and issues to make sure... | > Sure, maybe we can help... but you really have to give us something to work | > with... [quoted text clipped - 10 lines] | > And did you check the internal batteries for CMOS/BIOS and any other | > additional (some have three). SignatureMEB http://peoplescounsel.orgfree.com ________ >| No, I couldn't check for CMOS/BIOS batteries. But the battery in the >| laptop does not charge at all. [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] > too many deep discharges] you have a real good indication that the > interior batteries [CMOS/other] need checked. Yes, if the BIOS battery is dead the BIOS will probably reset to its defaults, which may assume a different configuration, e.g different hard drive - I had that once years ago: an 80MB disk was suddenly assumed to be a 60MB one by the BIOS, result being the laptop stopped working. I would go into BIOS setup at power on and verify all the settings are right. You may need the manual for the machine to verify what the settings should be. Note though that if the battery is dead then it will forget the settings again on power off, however if changing the BIOS settings fixes the problem you will at least have isolated the problem and can try and get the BIOS battery replaced. Of course it might be that the drive really is failing, having checked the BIOS settings and ensured the disk is being detected correctly you'd want to run a surface scan, (or preferably manufacturer's diagnostics program if available, these will usaully look at the SMART data etc and see information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors etc). Yes, I need to get to the BIOS setup, but I do not know the key combination! We got this laptop from someone else, and yet, no CD, no instructions, no recovery disk etc. I do not want to look at all the components in the laptop to see if my battery is dead, due to the fact that capacitors can hold large amounts of electricity. I tried one key combination, but it didn't go into BIOS/CMOS Setup. I would say it was probably manafactured in between 1996 - 2000. > >| No, I couldn't check for CMOS/BIOS batteries. But the battery in the > >| laptop does not charge at all. [quoted text clipped - 21 lines] > available, these will usaully look at the SMART data etc and see > information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors etc). You don't know what make/model the machine is? SignatureGary S. Terhune MS-MVP Shell/User www.grystmill.com > Yes, I need to get to the BIOS setup, but I do not know the key > combination! [quoted text clipped - 36 lines] >> available, these will usaully look at the SMART data etc and see >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors etc). Sorry, missed the previous post. SignatureGary S. Terhune MS-MVP Shell/User www.grystmill.com > Yes, I need to get to the BIOS setup, but I do not know the key > combination! [quoted text clipped - 36 lines] >> available, these will usaully look at the SMART data etc and see >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors etc). The usual key for Compaq BIOSes is F10. It would be good to know what model number the machine is. Here's one set of instructions for replacing the BIOS battery that I came across: http://www.tertullian.org/rpearse/armada/index.htm Kinda folksy, but has some interesting hints. Really, I've been into laptops a lot, and so long as you disconnect the main battery and give it some time for the capacitors to discharge, there's not really much risk, if any, other than you mucking something up -- those things are NOT fun to work on. SignatureGary S. Terhune MS-MVP Shell/User www.grystmill.com > Yes, I need to get to the BIOS setup, but I do not know the key > combination! [quoted text clipped - 36 lines] >> available, these will usaully look at the SMART data etc and see >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors etc). Model Number? Sure! Compaq Armada 1592DT Hope it helps! > The usual key for Compaq BIOSes is F10. It would be good to know what model > number the machine is. Here's one set of instructions for replacing the BIOS [quoted text clipped - 47 lines] > >> available, these will usaully look at the SMART data etc and see > >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors etc). Maybe this will help you. http://tinyurl.com/3xu2ap Did you manage to get into BIOS yet? F10 work? SignatureGary S. Terhune MS-MVP Shell/User www.grystmill.com > Model Number? Sure! > [quoted text clipped - 67 lines] >> >> available, these will usaully look at the SMART data etc and see >> >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors etc). Sorry Gary. F10 didn't work. However, you may be correct in some circumstances. My other Compaq laptop uses the F10 key to get into BIOS/CMOS setup... I will read the website and see what works and what doesn't! If I can or can't fix the problem, I will get back to the website and reply. Thank you for the link. > Maybe this will help you. > http://tinyurl.com/3xu2ap [quoted text clipped - 72 lines] > >> >> available, these will usaully look at the SMART data etc and see > >> >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors etc). From the manual: http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/UCR/SupportManual/TPM_284809-003_rev3_ us/TPM_284809-003_rev3_us.pdf To access Computer Setup (or Diagnostics) on the Compaq Utilities menu, follow these steps: 1. Restart the computer by clicking Shut Down on the Windows Start menu. (Or turn on power.) 2. Press F10 as soon as the cursor appears in the upper-right corner of the screen. IMPORTANT: The cursor is displayed on the screen for about two seconds. If you do not press F10 during this time, you must restart the computer and try again. SignatureBrian A. Sesko { MS MVP_Shell/User } Conflicts start where information lacks. http://basconotw.mvps.org/ Suggested posting do's/don'ts: http://www.dts-l.org/goodpost.htm How to ask a question: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/555375 > Sorry Gary. F10 didn't work. However, you may be correct in some > circumstances. My other Compaq laptop uses the F10 key to get into BIOS/CMOS [quoted text clipped - 81 lines] >> >> >> available, these will usaully look at the SMART data etc and see >> >> >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors etc). Brian A and Gary, I could not start the Compaq Utilities. The computer will constantly beep and I then have to shut it down. What cursor? Mouse or MS-DOS cursor (blinking cursor)? --------- > From the manual: > http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/UCR/SupportManual/TPM_284809-003_rev3_ us/TPM_284809-003_rev3_us.pdf [quoted text clipped - 92 lines] > >> >> >> available, these will usaully look at the SMART data etc and see > >> >> >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors etc). When you say, "constantly beep", is that when you're pressing the FD10 key repeatedly, or holding it down? Does it quit when you stop pressing any key? If so, that's just the "stuck-key" error. The cursor we're talking about is similar to a DOS cursor, just a plain horizontal line fragment that blinks. IIRC, it might even be at the upper right instead of upper left. Do you see any blinking cursor at all? If so, as noted, it only appears for a short time, and you only want to try F10 when it appears, not before or after (so as to avoid the "stuck key" error.) Only other way I know to force BIOS is to replace the CMOS battery, and with Compaq, I'm not even sure that would work. Compaqs, especially of that era, were downright weird machines. Did a lot of things very differently from the rest of the crowd. Hmmm... Not sure about that machine, but seems to me that at least some laptops, if not most, have/had a Fn or F-lock key that you have to press before the F keys will work... I think... Not really too familiar with the things, not like I am with desktops. SignatureGary S. Terhune MS-MVP Shell/User www.grystmill.com > Brian A and Gary, I could not start the Compaq Utilities. The computer > will [quoted text clipped - 128 lines] >> >> >> >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors >> >> >> >> etc). This is actually 'John' but I changed my profile name to 'BinaryConverted'. Either way, repeatedly pressing or holding the F10 key down will cause the machine to constantly beep. And it is not going into BIOS/CMOS setup. Yes, cursors when the system boot's, but many different types. The first blinks when I get this damned message which takes up most of the boot time: "****** KB OK" It blinks for more than two seconds. Next one is after the 'Windows 98 Second Edition' logo appears. Again, more than two seconds. After that, I see the wallpaper and suddenly Windows 98 appears. Have to go with you on this one :)) "Compaqs, especially of that era, were downright weird machines." The one I am using now is a completely DUMBFOWL - it is a Compaq aswell. Ok. Yes, I will try one the 'Fn' key on the keyboard before the F10. And one question: Do I need to post a new topic just to make this easier to access? SignatureForums - Aren''t they wonderful? > When you say, "constantly beep", is that when you're pressing the FD10 key > repeatedly, or holding it down? Does it quit when you stop pressing any key? [quoted text clipped - 148 lines] > >> >> >> >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors > >> >> >> >> etc). > This is actually 'John' but I changed my profile name to 'BinaryConverted'. > [quoted text clipped - 9 lines] > > It blinks for more than two seconds. Do you see the POST or the Compaq logo at boot? The POST screen shows the memory count, drive detection, kb/mouse detection and a few other things. If you see the POST, as soon as it appears press the PAUSE key immediately. Look for anything that mentions "To Enter Setup - Press (key)". Press any key to resume boot and immediately press the key noted to enter setup. If it gets by then you'll have to reboot and try again. > Next one is after the 'Windows 98 Second Edition' logo appears. Once you get to the Windows logo it's to late and passed being able to enter the BIOS. > Again, more than two seconds. > After that, I see the wallpaper and suddenly Windows 98 appears. [quoted text clipped - 8 lines] > And one question: Do I need to post a new topic just to make this easier to > access? No. Yes, they're a great resource for help and information. SignatureBrian A. Sesko { MS MVP_Shell/User } Conflicts start where information lacks. http://basconotw.mvps.org/ Suggested posting do's/don'ts: http://www.dts-l.org/goodpost.htm How to ask a question: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/555375 >> When you say, "constantly beep", is that when you're pressing the FD10 key >> repeatedly, or holding it down? Does it quit when you stop pressing any key? [quoted text clipped - 15 lines] >> before the F keys will work... I think... Not really too familiar with the >> things, not like I am with desktops. <snipped> I don't see a Compaq logo at boot. I am just not sure about these blinking cursors. After more than two seconds it shows another cursor again (as if I press the 'ENTER' key after it says '****** OK') -- Forums - Aren't they wonderful? > > This is actually 'John' but I changed my profile name to 'BinaryConverted'. > > [quoted text clipped - 60 lines] > >> > <snipped> http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/SoftwareIndex.jsp?lang=en&cc=us &prodNameId=96537&prodTypeId=321957&prodSeriesId=96219&swLang=8&taskId=135&swEnv OID=20 - Download drivers and software http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/ProductList.jsp?lang=en&cc=us&p rodTypeId=321957&prodSeriesId=96219&taskId=135 - Armada general - locate files Check Chapters 9 and 10 of the manual which Brian directed you to. SignatureMEB http://peoplescounsel.orgfree.com ________ | Brian A and Gary, I could not start the Compaq Utilities. The computer will | constantly beep and I then have to shut it down. [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] | | > From the manual: http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/UCR/SupportManual/TPM_284809-003_rev3_ us/TPM_284809-003_rev3_us.pdf | > To access Computer Setup (or Diagnostics) on the Compaq Utilities menu, follow these | > steps: [quoted text clipped - 90 lines] | > >> >> >> available, these will usaully look at the SMART data etc and see | > >> >> >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors etc). Thank's MEB. I will try to install the drivers as soon as possible. SignatureA story of success always has a beginning. > http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/SoftwareIndex.jsp?lang=en&cc=us &prodNameId=96537&prodTypeId=321957&prodSeriesId=96219&swLang=8&taskId=135&swEnv OID=20 - > Download drivers and software [quoted text clipped - 140 lines] > | > >> >> >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors > etc). Your welcome, let us know how it turns out.. SignatureMEB http://peoplescounsel.orgfree.com ________ | Thank's MEB. | | I will try to install the drivers as soon as possible. | | > http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/SoftwareIndex.jsp?lang=en&cc=us &prodNameId=96537&prodTypeId=321957&prodSeriesId=96219&swLang=8&taskId=135&swEnv OID=20 - | > Download drivers and software http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/ProductList.jsp?lang=en&cc=us&p rodTypeId=321957&prodSeriesId=96219&taskId=135 - | > Armada general - locate files | > [quoted text clipped - 8 lines] | > | | > | > From the manual: http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/UCR/SupportManual/TPM_284809-003_rev3_ us/TPM_284809-003_rev3_us.pdf | > | > To access Computer Setup (or Diagnostics) on the Compaq Utilities menu, | > follow these [quoted text clipped - 122 lines] | > | > >> >> >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors | > etc). Thank You MEB! It solved the problem. It looks like everything is working perfectly and the drivers are up-to-date. ----- Note to 98 Guy: Reply to this post and be considered UN-WELCOME. SignatureA story of success always has a beginning. > http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/SoftwareIndex.jsp?lang=en&cc=us &prodNameId=96537&prodTypeId=321957&prodSeriesId=96219&swLang=8&taskId=135&swEnv OID=20 - > Download drivers and software [quoted text clipped - 140 lines] > | > >> >> >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors > etc). | Thank You MEB! | | It solved the problem. It looks like everything is working perfectly and the | drivers are up-to-date. | ----- | Note to 98 Guy: Reply to this post and be considered UN-WELCOME. Glad to hear that its working, though you should try to find a friend to replace those internal batteries sometime in the future, and pick up a replacement main battery. There is no good reason older computers can't continue to provide satisfaction to their users, just takes a little TLC, and an occassional "jump start", and a bit of maintanence. And my thanks to all who provided additional help to John. | > http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/SoftwareIndex.jsp?lang=en&cc=us &prodNameId=96537&prodTypeId=321957&prodSeriesId=96219&swLang=8&taskId=135&swEnv OID=20 - | > Download drivers and software http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport/TechSupport/ProductList.jsp?lang=en&cc=us&p rodTypeId=321957&prodSeriesId=96219&taskId=135 - | > Armada general - locate files | > [quoted text clipped - 8 lines] | > | | > | > From the manual: http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/UCR/SupportManual/TPM_284809-003_rev3_ us/TPM_284809-003_rev3_us.pdf | > | > To access Computer Setup (or Diagnostics) on the Compaq Utilities menu, | > follow these [quoted text clipped - 122 lines] | > | > >> >> >> information that is invisible to scandisk about failing sectors | > etc). SignatureMEB http://peoplescounsel.orgfree.com ________ YW, <gd&r>. SignatureGary S. Terhune MS-MVP Shell/User www.grystmill.com > | Thank You MEB! > | [quoted text clipped - 193 lines] > sectors > | > etc). > Brian A and Gary, I could not start the Compaq Utilities. The computer will > constantly beep and I then have to shut it down. [quoted text clipped - 16 lines] >> not >> press F10 during this time, you must restart the computer and try again. <snipped> The cursor they mention appears in the Upper Right-hand Corner. Do you see that cursor or only ones on the left? From reading the manual, it's mentioned that: <quote> The Compaq Utilities menu will appear immediately after the computer has been turned on and the Power-On Self-Test (POST) has been completed. </quote> Have you tried a continual tapping of F10 from the moment you power up? Also the manual states: <quote> You can also view most of the same information in Compaq Diagnostics for Windows in the Control Panel. </quote> If they are not available in CP the only way I find to enter "Setup" aka BIOS is with F10. SignatureBrian A. Sesko { MS MVP_Shell/User } Conflicts start where information lacks. http://basconotw.mvps.org/ Suggested posting do's/don'ts: http://www.dts-l.org/goodpost.htm How to ask a question: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/555375 > The usual key for Compaq BIOSes is F10. It would be good to know what model > number the machine is. Here's one set of instructions for replacing the BIOS [quoted text clipped - 5 lines] > really much risk, if any, other than you mucking something up -- those > things are NOT fun to work on. I wrote that page, and on the whole I wouldn't want to do this job again. I ended up with a laptop with a battery held in with a bit of tape, which tended to come off if I moved the laptop around. The plastic brackets inside the laptop were just too fragile. All the best, Roger Pearse > Hello. I am using an old Windows 98 computer that doesn't seem to work > properly. [quoted text clipped - 5 lines] > 1. When I finally decided to try it (after some considerable time) it said > that it found a permanent hard drive failure. What The? Download/run a disk diagnostic utility to check the drives integrity from the HD manufacturer support site. If the drive is done in or has many bad sectors which indicates it's on its way south, you'll need to install another drive in its place. Will it boot to Safe Mode? Do you have another PC available to connect the HD in as a slave to see if you can access the disk? > 2. At startup, the sound driver produces this loud 'BEEP'. I have no idea > what it is, but it also happens when I insert the PC Card. There is also no > sound. Check your beep pattern for the BIOS installed here for causes: http://www.bioscentral.com/beepcodes/awardbeep.htm http://www.f-prot.com/products/home_use/dos/ > 3. After installing a mouse driver from a CD, it told me that the driver > would be ready to use - after resolving a conflict. Do I fix it? Yes. But it > doesn't let me! If you can boot to Safe Mode you will be able to remove any/all unessential device drivers not needed to use Windows. Once removed shut down and remove/disconnect any/all hardware peripherals/adapters leaving only the monitor, mouse and keyboard connected. If you can successfully boot to Windows, shut down, install the video adapter and see if it will boot successfully to Windows. If you can, shut down, install the sound card and boot. Keep doing this until all devices are installed or the sytem fails to boot due to the device just installed, that of course is if you were able to boot with only the mon/kb/mouse. > 4. The display settings are using the wrong color. "John, just change it in > the Display properties!". Can't do that either. I was thinking of updating > the drivers anyway. That's what you need to do if you can get into Windows. > 5. After running a few programs on the computer, decided to stop editing > the system files through DOS. Computer screen goes white and system stops > responding. Editing System files, not good. What System files? > 6. There is some sort of program called 'Britticana 2005' installed on it. > Have no idea what that is for. I guess that is why the person who gave it to > us didn't pick up the laptop! You sure it's not Encyclopedia Britticana? If this is a laptop I guess you'll have to skip removing physical harware. > 7. The keyboard doesn't work while I am in the 'Windows 98 Startup Menu'. > Am I suppose to update the BIOS and Keyboard drivers as well? The way it's looking I'm not sure if anything will help. > That is just some of the problems I found out. I suppose it is a virus, but > I don't know how to install an antivirus program on it without the screen [quoted text clipped - 3 lines] > while it does that, I am going to have to study how to identify and remove a > virus. http://www.f-prot.com/products/home_use/dos/ > Any help is really appreciated. > > John. SignatureBrian A. Sesko { MS MVP_Shell/User } Conflicts start where information lacks. http://basconotw.mvps.org/ Suggested posting do's/don'ts: http://www.dts-l.org/goodpost.htm How to ask a question: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/555375 Watch this, MEB, as I craft a properly composed and edited usenet reply. Something you are unable or too lazy to do. > Hello. I am using an old Windows 98 computer that doesn't seem > to work properly. > > 1. it said that it found a permanent hard drive failure. > What The? Your hard drive is failing, and diagnosing all other problems is not useful until or unless you obtain a new hard drive and re-install windows-98. Hard drives have a finite lifespan, which is generally 5 years. While drives made in the past 3-4 years have really good MTBF (mean-time-between-failure), drives made back in 1998 - 2002 had lower MTBF's. | Watch this, MEB, as I craft a properly composed and edited usenet | reply. Something you are unable or too lazy to do. [quoted text clipped - 13 lines] | (mean-time-between-failure), drives made back in 1998 - 2002 had lower | MTBF's. Its a laptop idiot!!! Diagnostic routines for these older laptops must first deal with the potential internal batteries and their replacement... SignatureMEB http://peoplescounsel.orgfree.com ________ > | > Hello. I am using an old Windows 98 computer that doesn't seem > | > to work properly. > Its a laptop idiot!!! Based only on this cryptic paragraph: "There is some sort of program called 'Britticana 2005' installed on it. Have no idea what that is for. I guess that is why the person who gave it to us didn't pick up the laptop!" The last sentence doesn't make sense. Anyone who doesn't know what "Britticana" is probably isin't ready for computers anyways. > Diagnostic routines for these older laptops must first deal > with the potential internal batteries and their replacement... You can putz with batteries all you want. If we are dealing with a laptop, the OP is probably running it off it's AC adaptor anyways. "it said that it found a permanent hard drive failure" A hard drive with media errors will give all sorts of unpredictable software and operational errors. Unless there is important personal information or files on it, the best course of action is to replace the drive and re-install the OS and apps. | > | > Hello. I am using an old Windows 98 computer that doesn't seem | > | > to work properly. [quoted text clipped - 11 lines] | Anyone who doesn't know what "Britticana" is probably isin't ready for | computers anyways. Leave the person alone, you aren't exactly god's gift to mankind.... nor are you mensa material... | > Diagnostic routines for these older laptops must first deal | > with the potential internal batteries and their replacement... [quoted text clipped - 8 lines] | information or files on it, the best course of action is to replace | the drive and re-install the OS and apps. YEEEEAAAHHH, but with a laptop you have suspend/hibernation issues, loss of CMOS settings, and a myriad of other potentials to deal with, which are SPECIFIC/UNIQUE to laptops/notebooks. Plugging it into a power adapter corrects NONE of the issues the deep discharge or extended lack of use will cause with laptops/notebooks, and the potential IS that the hard drive may APPEAR as bad, when its nothing more than bad batteries/power [which may still take a charge if left plugged in, or need replaced] and resetting the laptop to the proper settings. So take your simplistic ideas to a forum where they may laud you as semi-intelligent,,, let this group continue to try to guide these people that come through here for help... MEB spewed: > So take your simplistic ideas to a forum where they may laud you > as semi-intelligent,,, You really are an a.s hole. | MEB spewed: | | > So take your simplistic ideas to a forum where they may laud you | > as semi-intelligent,,, | | You really are an a.s hole. Well, let's review your history here... When you brought your ideas to this group regarding IE hacks, I was the ONLY one who attempted to work with you on that... you didn't apparently pick-up on TESTING techniques required .... When you brought your ideas concerning hard drives to this group, we all tried to direct you to the materials you needed to understand and consider for your presentation... glad you picked up on SOME of that.. to bad you didn't grasp the full picture... When you started your "you don't need firewalls anymore" we but in particular I, tried to direct you to the FACTS of networking and Internet use, regretfully that was apparently beyond your abilities to understand... Shall I go through other of your posts here????? And here you are trying to direct someone to spend money for something BEFORE you have verified that is the problem.... So perhaps I may appear to be an *AH* NOW, but really, you need to THINK before you type... and let those who do understand SRTSP, apply them. SignatureMEB http://peoplescounsel.orgfree.com ________ "MEB spewed: > So take your simplistic ideas to a forum where they may laud you > as semi-intelligent,,, You really are an a.s hole." - 98 Guy "Well, let's review your history here... When you brought your ideas to this group regarding IE hacks, I was the ONLY one who attempted to work with you on that... you didn't apparently pick-up on TESTING techniques required .... When you brought your ideas concerning hard drives to this group, we all tried to direct you to the materials you needed to understand and consider for your presentation... glad you picked up on SOME of that.. to bad you didn't grasp the full picture... When you started your "you don't need firewalls anymore" we but in particular I, tried to direct you to the FACTS of networking and Internet use, regretfully that was apparently beyond your abilities to understand... Shall I go through other of your posts here????? And here you are trying to direct someone to spend money for something BEFORE you have verified that is the problem.... So perhaps I may appear to be an *AH* NOW, but really, you need to THINK before you type... and let those who do understand SRTSP, apply them." - MBE ----------------------------------------------------- NOW LETS GET OVER THIS CRAP AND GET ON WITH LIFE!!! OK? | "MEB spewed: | [quoted text clipped - 29 lines] | | NOW LETS GET OVER THIS CRAP AND GET ON WITH LIFE!!! OK? Agreed! So-- is your machine a laptop or not? Can you boot a Startup Diskette...?... http://www.bootdisk.com/ , if you don't already have one from "Control Panel, Add/Remove Programs, Startup Disk tab". Copy-protect the diskette, put it in & turn on the computer. At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? SignatureThanks or Good Luck, There may be humor in this post, and, Naturally, you will not sue, Should things get worse after this, PCR pcrrcp@netzero.net > So-- is your machine a laptop or not? Can you boot a Startup > Diskette...?... His hard drive was pooched, but he doesn't want to say that I was right, so he just let the thread die. |> So-- is your machine a laptop or not? Can you boot a Startup |> Diskette...?... | | His hard drive was pooched, but he doesn't want to say that I was | right, so he just let the thread die. I'm not 100% convinced it wasn't his battery or power supply that was pooched. But I'm outa here! I don't want to get between you & MEB anymore than between Angel & thanatoid! SignatureThanks or Good Luck, There may be humor in this post, and, Naturally, you will not sue, Should things get worse after this, PCR pcrrcp@netzero.net ROFL!! LOL!! Angel > |> So-- is your machine a laptop or not? Can you boot a Startup > |> Diskette...?... [quoted text clipped - 5 lines] > pooched. But I'm outa here! I don't want to get between you & MEB > anymore than between Angel & thanatoid! | ROFL!! LOL!! Ah, ha, ha-- BUT, careful! Don't put a dent into those wings! | Angel | [quoted text clipped - 15 lines] |> PCR |> pcrrcp@netzero.net SignatureThanks or Good Luck, There may be humor in this post, and, Naturally, you will not sue, Should things get worse after this, PCR pcrrcp@netzero.net You really need a kick in the a.s 98 Guy. SignatureA story of success always has a beginning. > > So-- is your machine a laptop or not? Can you boot a Startup > > Diskette...?... > > His hard drive was pooched, but he doesn't want to say that I was > right, so he just let the thread die. > You really need a kick in the a.s 98 Guy. You need a kick in the a.s for being a top-poster. Well, it doesn't look like you have being top-poster. Such a 'computer techinician' should know how to diagnose really REALLY old computers, even with Windows Vista already released. So I can tell you what - Next time you post in another topic, wax lyrical about the title of the post or the skill of the user before your big mouth opens. Go back to your graveyard. SignatureA story of success always has a beginning. > > > You really need a kick in the a.s 98 Guy. > > You need a kick in the a.s for being a top-poster. > So I can tell you what - No, I'll tell you what. Why don't you stop wasting space by posting unintelligible junk? Relax... You are tense! > Why don't you stop wasting space by posting unintelligible junk? Why don't you go away and bug somebody else? > No, I'll tell you what. Don't tell me what - You don't know ANYTHING about computers. SignatureA story of success always has a beginning. Ooops... Yes, a laptop. SignatureA story of success always has a beginning. > | "MEB spewed: > | [quoted text clipped - 38 lines] > > At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? | Ooops... | | Yes, a laptop. I see. Does it have a floppy drive? If you can boot a floppy, it might prove you are not having a power problem. I've posted elsewhere on how to get into BIOS. On my Compaq 7470, there is a square, blinking cursor that jumps from the top left to the top right corners of the screen-- that is when to hit F10 to get into BIOS. But on laptops it may be altogether different! Really, I think Brian A.'s instructions should have gotten you there! | -- | A story of success always has a beginning. [quoted text clipped - 50 lines] |> PCR |> pcrrcp@netzero.net SignatureThanks or Good Luck, There may be humor in this post, and, Naturally, you will not sue, Should things get worse after this, PCR pcrrcp@netzero.net Well, I'm not sure that startup is not a problem anymore. That one resolved itself. But I might need to access BIOS setup through Windows. Is there any way at all? SignatureA story of success always has a beginning. > | "MEB spewed: > | [quoted text clipped - 38 lines] > > At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? Normally, no, you can't access BIOS from within Windows. Why would you want to? SignatureGary S. Terhune MS-MVP Shell/User www.grystmill.com > Well, I'm not sure that startup is not a problem anymore. > [quoted text clipped - 45 lines] >> >> At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? I need to access it from Windows because F10 won't start the BIOS/CMOS setup program. And now, everything causes a blank screen, even at startup. SignatureA story of success always has a beginning. > Normally, no, you can't access BIOS from within Windows. Why would you want > to? [quoted text clipped - 48 lines] > >> > >> At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? BinaryConverted converted to John... What's next? Seriously, F10 isn't he only way to get into BIOS. In fact, AFAIK, it's only used on older Compaqs. Have we already gone through all this with you recently, or was that someone else? It's a laptop? You have the make/model? Have we been thorough all this already? (Have pity on an old man with a brain like Swiss cheese.) SignatureGary S. Terhune MS-MVP Shell/User www.grystmill.com >I need to access it from Windows because F10 won't start the BIOS/CMOS >setup [quoted text clipped - 58 lines] >> >> >> >> At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? I've supplied a link earlier to the manual for his laptop: http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/UCR/SupportManual/TPM_284809-003_rev3_ us/TPM_284809-003_rev3_us.pdf From all I've read on it I believe it had Win95 originally installed, I may be in err though and F10 is the only key mentioned. SignatureBrian A. Sesko { MS MVP_Shell/User } Conflicts start where information lacks. http://basconotw.mvps.org/ Suggested posting do's/don'ts: http://www.dts-l.org/goodpost.htm How to ask a question: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/555375 > BinaryConverted converted to John... What's next? > [quoted text clipped - 60 lines] >>> >> >>> >> At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? Yeah, I remember now. Has anyone suggested removing and replacing the mobo battery? Or is that just too hard to deal with on that machine? Wonder if the manual mentions it... SignatureGary S. Terhune MS-MVP Shell/User www.grystmill.com > I've supplied a link earlier to the manual for his laptop: > http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/UCR/SupportManual/TPM_284809-003_rev3_ us/TPM_284809-003_rev3_us.pdf [quoted text clipped - 77 lines] >>>> >> >>>> >> At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? | Yeah, I remember now. Has anyone suggested removing and replacing the mobo | battery? Or is that just too hard to deal with on that machine? Wonder if | the manual mentions it... Batteries? Yep first response. Apparently too difficult [CMOS/BIOS]. And the main battery is dead... From: "MEB" <meb@not here@hotmail.com> References: <FA0DFC70-F25E-4665-A5C9-319EEF1A5B5E@microsoft.com> Message-ID: <u#gdvR4xHHA.4392@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl> SignatureMEB http://peoplescounsel.orgfree.com ________ | > I've supplied a link earlier to the manual for his laptop: http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/UCR/SupportManual/TPM_284809-003_rev3_ us/TPM_284809-003_rev3_us.pdf | > From all I've read on it I believe it had Win95 originally installed, I | > may be in err though and F10 is the only key mentioned. [quoted text clipped - 74 lines] | >>>> >> | >>>> >> At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? Hmmm... Maybe just reach in there and pull on something, anything... JUST KIDDING! Though I'd be tempted if it were mine... SignatureGary S. Terhune MS-MVP Shell/User www.grystmill.com > | Yeah, I remember now. Has anyone suggested removing and replacing the > mobo [quoted text clipped - 114 lines] > | >>>> >> At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a > listing? Nope, no mention, and no schematics... Well, F10 ought to do it, and repeatedly tapping the key as soon as the machine is turned on is the way to do it (as you suggested elsewhere. Since mo mention is made of it, I presume there's nothing like an F-Lock key (may they burn in hell for that one!) SignatureGary S. Terhune MS-MVP Shell/User www.grystmill.com > Yeah, I remember now. Has anyone suggested removing and replacing the mobo > battery? Or is that just too hard to deal with on that machine? Wonder if [quoted text clipped - 83 lines] >>>>> >> >>>>> >> At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? Perhaps another "Burn in hell" is warranted, from the manual: Problem: Every time the computer is turned on, the date and time have to be set. Possible cause: Real-time clock battery is at the end of its life. Solution: Call your Compaq authorized service provider to replace real-time clock battery. On another note, they do have an Fn key that they use in combo with other keys and at least one combo locks/unlocks the kb/mouse. Couldn't find anything I thought was relevant to locking/unlocking F keys though. I'm going to have another go-round to see if I can find info on the CMOS battery. SignatureBrian A. Sesko { MS MVP_Shell/User } Conflicts start where information lacks. http://basconotw.mvps.org/ Suggested posting do's/don'ts: http://www.dts-l.org/goodpost.htm How to ask a question: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/555375 > Yeah, I remember now. Has anyone suggested removing and replacing the mobo battery? > Or is that just too hard to deal with on that machine? Wonder if the manual [quoted text clipped - 70 lines] >>>>> >> >>>>> >> At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? HAH!!!! Found and now posted. See 7.10 Lithium Real Time Clock Battery: http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bc/docs/support/SupportManual/c00139858/c00139858.pdf SignatureBrian A. Sesko { MS MVP_Shell/User } Conflicts start where information lacks. http://basconotw.mvps.org/ Suggested posting do's/don'ts: http://www.dts-l.org/goodpost.htm How to ask a question: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/555375 > Yeah, I remember now. Has anyone suggested removing and replacing the mobo battery? > Or is that just too hard to deal with on that machine? Wonder if the manual [quoted text clipped - 70 lines] >>>>> >> >>>>> >> At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? Now, THAT'S what I call dedication!!! Bravo! SignatureGary S. Terhune MS-MVP Shell/User www.grystmill.com > HAH!!!! Found and now posted. > See 7.10 Lithium Real Time Clock Battery: [quoted text clipped - 89 lines] >>>>>> >> >>>>>> >> At the A:\ prompt, enter "DIR" (no quotes). Did you get a listing? | Well, I'm not sure that startup is not a problem anymore. | | That one resolved itself. OK. Good enough. | But I might need to access BIOS setup through Windows. | Is there any way at all? There is no normal way for you to get to BIOS once in Windows. Terhune might know an abnormal one. Here is what I normally post for getting into BIOS... You must press a key at boot to enter BIOS Setup. If you don't know the key to press, try "Esc" at the manufacturer's logo. Then, the key to press to enter BIOS setup will show up. Quickly press it. For my Compaq Presario 7470, it is F10. In BIOS, use TAB & the arrow keys to navigate, & ENTER to select. (Well, there may be a legend showing your keys are different.) While in there, you'd better go through all the menus & jot down the settings. If they are not set to defaults, and somehow, someday, they are cleared, all these settings may need to be input again. .....Quote of Candlin about............... .....keystrokes to get to BIOS Setup.... Usually DEL, but F1, F2, F10 are also common. Other keystrokes which might work are: AMI BIOS: Del key during the POST DTK BIOS: Esc key during the POST Award BIOS: Ctrl-Alt-Esc Misc BIOS: Ctrl-Esc Phoenix BIOS: Ctrl-Alt-Esc or Ctrl-Alt-S IBM PS/2 BIOS: Ctrl-Alt-Ins after Ctrl-Alt-Del If all else fails, shut down, power off, unplug the keyboard, and power up again, as some older systems will default to the CMOS Setup if a keyboard is not found. ......End of Quote............................ And here are WEB sites I've collected here at this NG, but haven't recently clicked... http://sysopt.earthweb.com/biosbmc.html BIOS beeps http://www.amptron.com/html/bios.beepcodes.html http://www.comptechdoc.org/hardware/beepcodes/1.htm http://www.computerhope.com/beep.htm http://www.tcwo.com/support/new/beeps.htm BIOS beeps http://www.bioscentral.com/ BIOS Central http://www.extremetech.com/article/0,2299,s%3D1005%26a%3D1614,00.asp BIOS Info http://www.itcp.net/~awsh/ BIOS & hardware Optimization Guide ftp://ftp.heise.de/pub/ct/ctsi/ctbios15.zip ctbios Identify BIOS http://www.cgsecurity.org/ BIOS manipulator, Password recoverer | -- | A story of success always has a beginning. [quoted text clipped - 50 lines] |> PCR |> pcrrcp@netzero.net SignatureThanks or Good Luck, There may be humor in this post, and, Naturally, you will not sue, Should things get worse after this, PCR pcrrcp@netzero.net |
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