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I have an HP OmniBook XE3 that just won't boot. I Can't give you specific
specs on the system because each time it powers up, all I get is one long beep,
with no video.

I tried 1. removing battery and powering with power only.
2. powering with battery only
3. reseating memory
4. removing battery, memory, power cord and hold down power button 30 seconds.
All I get is one long beep with no video.

Somebody, anybody please help.

charlesh901

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by steve.q

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A practical troubleshooting path for an XE3 that gives a single long beep and no video. has already tried basic power and memory reseating, and the suggestions from (keyboard/cable) and (service/manuals) are good leads. The goal is to narrow the fault to keyboard, RAM, display chain, or the main board.

  • Power-safe checklist: unplug AC and remove battery before opening the case; ground yourself to avoid ESD.
  • Record the beep pattern carefully (single long, repeated, pauses) — that detail narrows BIOS diagnostics.
  • External display: connect a VGA monitor and power on. If BIOS/POST appears externally, the internal LCD/inverter/cable is the likely fault.
  • Keyboard isolation: with power removed, locate and carefully unplug the keyboard ribbon (many Omnibooks use a small flip ZIF latch). Power on with the keyboard disconnected — if it POSTs, the keyboard or cable is causing a short and is the next part to replace.
  • Minimal-boot RAM test: boot with only one known-good DIMM in the primary slot; try the other slot/module if available. Persistent no-POST after this points away from RAM.
  • CMOS/manual reset and visual check: remove the coin cell for a few minutes, inspect the board for burnt components, bulging capacitors, or liquid damage.

What results mean: external image -> display assembly/cable; POST only when keyboard removed -> replace keyboard/cable; no change after minimal boot and CMOS reset -> motherboard/system-board fault (repair often costly on older XE3 units). Service manuals (as noted) are very helpful for connector locations and part numbers. If unsure, a repair shop can confirm with a short bench test; replacing the keyboard/cable is usually the lowest-cost trial.

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Member Avatar for steve.q

Hey if you end up having to open up your laptop and repair it yourself, there is a good resource here.


HP Omnibook 5500cs/ct
HP Omnibook 6000
HP Omnibook 7100
HP Omnibook XE2
HP Omnibook XE3
HP Omnibook XE4100,XE4500
HP Omnibook XT1500 series
HP Omnibook 5000c/ct
HP Omnibook 4100-4150
HP Omnibook 4100
HP Omnibook 300,425,430,530
HP Omnibook 500
HP Omnibook 600c/ct
HP Omnibook 800cs/ct
HP Omnibook 900 series
HP Omnibook 2000,5500,5700
HP Omnibook 2100,3000,3100

Hope this helps

Steve

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