Member Avatar for katherinej

Hi
I'm new to this and don't know much about computers so I hope someone can help me :S

My HP ze4700 laptop will only power on when plugged in, but only turns on for a few seconds, shows a screen that gives me options (start in safe mode etc), allows me to choose one then turns off again.

Ideally I would like to fix it but if I can't I would like to sell it for spares/repair. The trouble is it has all my stuff on it that I wouldn't necessarily want a buyer to access. If I can't fix it, can I remove this info?

Thanks for your help in advance!

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Dani AI

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Symptom recap: the machine powers up long enough to show the Windows startup menu and then cuts out. That detail from rules out a totally dead system and points at either a power/charging fault, a hardware failure that trips under load, or an intermittent component (battery, DC jack, motherboard). As noted, a reinstall or drive wipe will remove files — however, do those only after isolating the hardware and securing your data.

Try these safe, ordered checks to isolate the fault:

  1. Remove battery and AC, hold the power button 10–15 seconds to discharge. Reconnect AC only (no battery) and attempt to start. A change in behavior implicates the battery or charging circuit.
  2. If possible, try a second, known-good AC adapter of the correct voltage. Check the DC jack for looseness or wobble.
  3. Try to get into BIOS/POST (ESC or F10 on HP during startup). If the laptop stays on in BIOS, the shutdown is likely triggered later by the OS or a drive issue; if it dies in BIOS, the fault is low-level hardware/power.
  4. Power down, remove the hard drive and then boot to BIOS. Removing the drive keeps your data safe and helps show whether the HDD or its connector is involved.
  5. Reseat memory (test one stick at a time) and visually inspect the board for swollen capacitors, corrosion, or obvious damage. Always disconnect power and remove the battery before opening the case.

Data-security options that avoid the reinstall suggestion already posted: physically remove the hard drive first. Connect it to another PC with a USB-to-SATA adapter or enclosure to copy needed files, or to run a manufacturer-provided secure-erase tool or the drive’s built-in ATA secure-erase. If selling for parts, remove and retain (or destroy) the drive; handing over a machine with the drive attached risks data recovery even after a quick format.

For a Ze4700, repairs to DC jack, battery, or motherboard regulation are common and can be more costly than the laptop’s value. If preserving files is the priority, removing the HDD is the fastest, safest step.

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Member Avatar for bobbyraw

you can use the recovery disk that came with your laptop do a clean install . it will remove all data and reinstall the operating system and any other software that came with the laptop when you got it. if you are woried about someone scannig your hard disk for old information even after you format it you can give it a military wipe, find this software dban on the internet and use it to wipe the HDD. then you can restore the computer with the restore disk.

Member Avatar for katherinej

Ok, I'll try that. Thank you very much for your help!

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