Member Avatar for heathermom0927

Hello I just bought a Compaq Armada M700 on ebay. It came with everything I needed but I cant get past the boot up screen. :sad: I will turn on the computer and it will get to like 120 ram and then shut off. So I took out the hard drive and it got to like 256 ram then gave me an error message of " 162-system options not set" and cut off. what is the problem? please help I really like this computer.

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The OP () reports a POST that stops during memory initialization and later a BIOS message "162 - system options not set." Replies from (memory swap) and (memtest86) point in the right directions. The most efficient approach is a short, ordered diagnostic that distinguishes bad RAM, a cleared/corrupt CMOS, and power/board faults.

  1. Reseat and isolate memory. Remove all SODIMMs, clean contacts if dirty, then test one module at a time in each slot. A single bad module or a bad slot will show up immediately when tested alone.
  2. Run a dedicated memory tester. Create a bootable memtest86/86+ CD or USB and run multiple full passes; test each module by itself. Persistent errors on one slot with a good module in it points to the motherboard, not the RAM.
  3. Reset CMOS and replace the coin cell. Disconnect AC and main battery, drain residual power (press power button 10-15s), remove the RTC battery for a few minutes, then reinstall and enter BIOS to set date/time and save defaults. Error 162 usually means BIOS settings were lost; replacing the RTC battery is inexpensive and common on older laptops.
  4. Check power and peripherals. Try booting on AC only (battery removed) and inspect the DC jack and adapter for correct voltage and wobble. If the machine powers off very early in POST, a failing adapter, short at the jack, or power circuit fault is possible.
  5. Last resorts: if memory and CMOS are OK, consider BIOS reflash only with the correct file and procedure, or professional board-level repair.

Use anti-static precautions. If any step is uncomfortable, a local repair shop can do the memory/CMOS checks quickly.

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Member Avatar for Teachingmyself

Could be a faulty memory dimm/slot

Try swapping the memory dimm to a different slot.The best place to find out how to do this is the manufacturer's website.

Unfortunately I have never worked with an armada so I can't be any more specific

Member Avatar for jbennet

memtest86?

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