Does your 'PC' not 'BOOT'? see BASIC TROUBLESHOOT, START UP PROBLEM

I have included here some way of Diagnosing PC Hardware Problems. Which are basic and very important 'know-how'APPLIES ON ALL OS.

Here is a brief checklist for diagnosing hardware failures in PCs:

1. If you're getting a BIOS beep code, check the hardware associated with that code. (Start by removing and reseating the offending item)

2. If the machine won't boot after making BIOS setting changes, reset the BIOS by clearing the CMOS. There's a motherboard jumper that is used to do this. Follow the instructions in your motherboard manual.

3. If the machine boots and runs but is unstable, make sure your power supply is adequate. I recommend people with modern (P4 or Athlon-based machines) do this anyway! "300 Watts" just doesn't cut it anymore-- what kind of amperage is available on the +12V supply? If it's less than about 15 A, get a better supply!

4. If it does not boot after removing or changing cables, check the floppy and IDE cabling. If the IDE cable is backwards, the hard disk LED on the front of the PC will normally be continuously on. If the floppy is backwards you may only get a "floppy failure" message on the BIOS startup screen.

5. If the machine just won't start, remove the board from the case and set it on a antistatic bag, cardboard, whatever..just so it's not touching any metal and remove everything except what's essential to get to the BIOS startup screen-- hard disks, CD players, extra memory, sound cards, everything. All that should be in there is a video card (if you aren't using on-board video), one stick of RAM and a keyboard. (Yes, that's really all you need!)

6. If the machine starts and makes it to the BIOS startup screen ("Press Del to enter setup"), begin adding components back in one at a time. Test the machine after adding each item until you arrive at the one that causes the machine not to start.

7. If the machine does not start in the minimum configuration, try each of your sticks of RAM in turn (the first one could have been bad!). If you get a beep code...search for the beep codes for your bios and motherboard to see which componet is not connected or has malfunctioned.

8. If the machine doesn't start in the minimum configuration, check the CPU and ensure that it is seated properly and that the cooler is attached properly. As an experiment, try a different CPU, or your CPU in a different machine.

9. If the CPU looks okay, try a different power supply. As an experment, try using your power supply in a different machine to ensure it's operating properly.

10. If you haven't found the problem yet, it's likely a motherboard failure. Time to call the manufacturer for an RMA (if it's still in warranty!).