Member Avatar for Jen425

I very much appreciate this site. While attempting to "fix" my Compaq Presario F763NR (which runs Vista), I deleted a start up file. Now, when I press the "on" button, it lights up for a second then shuts off and my computer won't turn on. I called HP but they claim there are no longer start up disks or replacement parts available and only tried to sell me a new computer. This can't be true, can it?? I have no idea where the disks that came with the computer are, but I'm CERTAIN I deleted some start up file(s). I know this because the file or files that I deleted for sure contained the letters HP and I believe "exe" was in the extension - I thought HP only made printers so I thought I was only deleting old printer files. Once you stop laughing :-)...Can you help me? I'm broke, unemployed and certainly don't have money for a new computer. You comments are much appreciated.

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Dani AI

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Quick assessment for : the symptom — the power light coming on for a second and the laptop shutting right off — points far more toward a power or motherboard fault than to the accidental deletion of a Windows “startup” file. As noted, deleting an OS file normally produces POST or boot errors, not an immediate shutdown. ’s comment about OEM recovery resources is relevant only if the machine can be powered and made to POST.

Recommended, low-cost checks (in roughly this order):

  • Power-cycle discharge: disconnect AC and remove the battery, then hold the power button ~15 seconds to drain caps. Reconnect AC only and try power.
  • AC adapter and jack: check the adapter LED or borrow a known-good adapter of the same connector type. Look for a loose/bent DC jack.
  • Minimal-hardware POST: remove the hard drive and any nonessential cards, then try powering. If the unit reaches BIOS or displays a disk error, the problem is likely software/drive-related; if it still dies immediately, it’s a power/motherboard issue.
  • Memory and beeps: reseat RAM sticks and try one stick at a time; listen for beep codes and note any LED blink patterns.
  • Safety note: disconnect mains before opening the case and avoid static; if uncomfortable, seek a technician.

If the machine can POST or can boot from media: use a Vista install/recovery disc and run Startup Repair or the recovery command prompt. Example commands to repair boot records:

bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /rebuildbcd

If the recovery partition was removed, a generic Vista install DVD plus the COA product key (if present on the case) will allow reinstallation. For data rescue, remove the drive and connect it to another computer with a SATA-to-USB adapter to copy important files before attempting repairs. Given tight finances, begin with the adapter/battery tests and HDD removal; those cost nothing and often identify the true fault without replacing the whole laptop.

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Member Avatar for caperjack

when I press the "on" button, it lights up for a second then shuts off

not saying it not possible ,but I have never seen this happen just because you deleted a startup file , it should still bootup to an error message ,not just turn on and shut right off .

Member Avatar for CimmerianX

Somthing like 15 years ago, The old Compaq's (pre-hp) would utilize a section of the hard drive for their BIOS. You would need to use their disks to properly format the installed HD with the startup software that enables the PC to boot. Replace the HD, you need to use the disk to 'prepare' the hd to load the PC properly. That was always Stupid as crap IMHO, but there it is.

IF you don't have the original disks to prepare the HD, then if you need to replace the HD you are out of luck.

In this case, if you removed or messed with the Compaq partition, then the machine may be fubar'd. IIRC, you would get something like a CD/Floppy icon displayed on screen indicating that the system could not find the startup resources.... or something like that.

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