Member Avatar for rosebud81501

When I power up my Compaq Presario S3000NX I can hear the fan and the HD running then I hear single beeps about every two seconds. Also, there is also no output showing on the monitor. Is there anyone who might know what the problem could be?

The Presario has:


2000+ 1.67 GHz
AMD Athlon XP Processor

256 MD DDR SDRAM memory

40GB Ultra DMA hard drive

32MD DDR SCRAM

CD-RW

  • 4 Contributors
  • 5 Replies
  • 297 Views
  • 6 Days Discussion Span
  • Latest Post Latest Post by jbennet

Dani AI

Generated

Single, evenly spaced single beeps with no video output typically point to a POST memory error. was right to flag a RAM problem, and 's follow-up that a DIMM was missing explains the exact behavior. 's tip about unplugging the internal speaker will silence the noise but also removes a useful diagnostic tool, and 's keyboard note is worth keeping in mind because different beep patterns can come from keyboard faults or other peripherals.

Quick, safe checklist to diagnose and fix the issue:

  • Power off and unplug the system. Ground against static (wrist strap or touch the metal chassis) and press the power button for 5-10 seconds to discharge capacitors.
  • Open the case and inspect the memory sockets. Desktop Presarios use full-size DDR DIMMs, not laptop SODIMMs. If a module is missing, obtain a compatible DDR stick; if present, remove and firmly reseat it until the retention clips click.
  • Test with a single known-good stick in the primary slot to isolate bad modules. Swap sticks one at a time to identify a faulty DIMM.
  • If contacts look tarnished, gently rub the gold edge with a soft eraser, blow away debris, and reseat. Do not force broken clips or bend pins.
  • Keep the internal speaker connected while testing so POST beep codes remain available.

If memory checks pass but there is still no video output, next steps include reseating or testing the video card, trying a different monitor/cable, removing nonessential add-in cards, and clearing CMOS only after powering down. Exact beep-code meanings vary by BIOS and board, so consult the service manual or HP/Compaq support for definitive mappings. For anyone uncomfortable with internal work, a local repair shop can safely perform these diagnostics. When ordering replacement RAM, match the DDR type and form factor and buy from a vendor with a return policy.

Recommended Answers

All 5 Replies

Member Avatar for Chaky

That is beep code for faulty memory module. You'll need to replace it.

Member Avatar for Carebare47

If you want to stop the beeping, it is easy, unplug the system speaker, although that wont fix the problem.As chalky said, it sounds like a broken RAM card

Member Avatar for rosebud81501

I just wanted to thank you for the reply's. I pulled the cover off and quess what, there was no memory module in the computer. Someone had given me the computer a while back, and all they told me was that it kept beeping when they powered it up. Anyway, I went to the recommended site and have ordered a new memory module and should have my computer up and running in no time.:cheesy:

I have to tell you when I first got the computer a few months ago. I had posted on a site similar to this and never got a reply to my post about the beep code, so I gave up on it for a while, till I found this forum!
Thanks again, I love this site!

Member Avatar for Chaky

That is beep code for faulty memory module. You'll need to replace it.

I meant "faulty or missing". :cheesy:

Member Avatar for jbennet

keyboard?

a key was radomly jammed on my thinkpad and it did that (you know, like when you sit on a keyboard - not all machines beep if you do this)

Be a part of the DaniWeb community

We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.