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The sequence of the beeps is important; each particular beep sequence is a BIOS POST error code which points to a specific problem (bad ram, faulty drive, etc.).

We can tell you what the error code means if you can tell us the make and version of your BIOS, and descibe the beep code (for example: one long beep-two short beeps-one long beep).

Has there ever been a reply on this matter?
I happen to have experienced yesterday same problem as len11.
[Moderator's note: please reference ]

I have an IBM Netvista 6280/27U.
The pc was turned on and used almost normally, except for a BIOS error dialog box.
When the pc was shutdown and restarted later that day, it only gave on long beep, three short beeps.
I am a pc user and do not know to check the version of the BIOS.
I appreciate your help in this.
:!: Thanks.

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A few practical follow-ups for anyone who lands on this thread later. Thanks to for getting the OP headed toward minimal-hardware checks and to for keeping everyone posted. The suggestions below expand the troubleshooting so you can tell whether the problem is a bad stick, a bad slot, the board, or something else — without repeating steps already in the replies.

  1. Power safety first: unplug, wait 30 seconds, and discharge yourself by touching a metal chassis part before handling components.
  2. Clean and reseat: remove each RAM module, inspect the gold fingers for dirt/corrosion, gently clean with isopropyl alcohol if needed, then reseat firmly.
  3. Single-stick isolation: test one known module at a time in the primary DIMM slot. Label sticks and slots so you can track which stick passes or fails.
  4. Run a memory tester from bootable media (Memtest86/86+ or similar). Let it run several full passes; consistent errors point to a bad stick or bad slot.
  5. Slot vs module: if the same stick fails in all slots, the module is likely bad. If a good stick fails only in one slot, suspect the motherboard slot or nearby components.
  6. Inspect the motherboard (bulging/leaking capacitors, burn marks) and, if comfortable, verify PSU voltages. Low or unstable rails can cause memory errors.

To decode beep patterns reliably, note the exact sequence and the BIOS/motherboard ID shown at POST or printed on the system board, then consult the service manual for that model. When asking for more help, include: exact beep sequence, BIOS/manufacturer text from POST, motherboard/system model, RAM part numbers, and any Memtest output or photos. These details make diagnosis much faster.

Member Avatar for pinto

Has there ever been a reply on this matter?
I happen to have experienced yesterday same problem as len11.
I have an IBM Netvista 6280/27U.
The pc was turned on and used almost normally, except for a BIOS error dialog box.
When the pc was shutdown and restarted later that day, it only gave on long beep, three short beeps.
I am a pc user and do not know to check the version of the BIOS.
I appreciate your help in this.
:!: Thanks.

One long and three sort beeps = Base 64 Kb memory failure. ;)

Remove everything but processor, memory, HDD and video card from your mobo.
Restart.
If this problem still persist replace memory first. Make sure you got right timings and other settings in BIOS
If compu still can't boot replace video card.

BTW, you can enter BIOS by pressing F1 at start of boot.

Member Avatar for Dennis141

One long and three sort beeps = Base 64 Kb memory failure. ;)

Remove everything but processor, memory, HDD and video card from your mobo.
Restart.
If this problem still persist replace memory first. Make sure you got right timings and other settings in BIOS
If compu still can't boot replace video card.

BTW, you can enter BIOS by pressing F1 at start of boot.

Thanks for your prompt response.
The mobo has a built in video card, so same could not be removed.
Removal of the HDD connection and RAM did not help.
However, the code has now changed to - . . . - (one long, three short, one long beep) :?:
Dennis141

Member Avatar for pinto

I said:
Remove everything but processor, memory, HDD and video card from your mobo.

You cant boot into windoze without Hard Disc Drive and memory...

Replace memorystick(-s) with new ones.

Looks like you need some basic "read-up" and this site is a good start;
http://www.pcguide.com/

Member Avatar for Dennis141

Pinto, thanks for your support.

I replaced the SDRAM and problem was solved.

Thanks a lot.

Dennis141

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