Compared to AMI signals sound signals Award BIOS are not so diverse, however, in the vast majority of cases, their set is enough to encode all possible errors motherboard. Distinctive features of the Award BIOS are the extensive use of the long beep, as well as the use of signal types such as continuous and constantly repeating beeps.
Below is a list of Award beeps and their corresponding problem situations, as well as possible ways their decisions.
- No signals
This may indicate a malfunction of both the power supply and the motherboard itself. In some cases, the system speaker of the motherboard may be faulty. To remedy the situation, you can try to check the contact of the power cable coming from the power supply to the motherboard.
- one short
The user hears such a signal most often. It means that the BIOS POST hardware check procedure was successful and the computer can continue to boot.
- Two short
This message in the Award BIOS is reserved for cases where the error is not serious and allows the computer to operate in normal mode. A detailed text message about the essence of the error is displayed on the monitor screen. The user's next steps to resolve the error usually depend on the type of situation. For example, a dead CMOS memory battery may be the cause of the error. In such a case, it must be replaced.
- Short recurring
The signal indicates a malfunction of the power supply or damage to the power circuits. To remedy the situation, you can try to check the contacts of the wires coming from the power supply to the motherboard.
- One long and one short
A message indicating a malfunction of the RAM or its absence altogether. If the latter option takes place, then the RAM modules must be installed, and if the memory is already present in the slots, then you can try to reinstall the RAM chips. If this does not help, then most likely the problem is a malfunction of the memory module. Sometimes these signals can be given when the video memory is faulty.
- Long repeating
An error similar to the previous one and indicating problems with the RAM. This error most often occurs when the memory modules are installed incorrectly. To correct the situation, you should check if the modules are installed correctly, and if not, then reinstall them.
- One long and two short
Such beeps indicate a video card error. Often in such a situation, the problem is just a badly installed board in the expansion slot. graphics accelerator, although the cause may be a malfunction of the video card chip.
- Three long
This message means that the BIOS has detected a keyboard controller error. As in other cases, here you can try to check the connection of the keyboard to the system unit. In some cases, the signal disappears after restarting the computer again. If the keyboard works, but the signals still remain, then they can usually be disabled using a special BIOS option.
- One long and three short
Sound message, like the previous one, indicating a keyboard error. But, unlike the previous error, in this case, the signals indicate that the error manifests itself in a slightly different situation - the BIOS detected the keyboard, but could not access it.
- One long and nine short
The signals indicate a CMOS read-only memory error. This failure can be either random, disappearing after restarting the PC, or it can be the result of a malfunction of the CMOS memory chip, as well as an incorrect flashing of the BIOS.
- Repeating signal with high and low frequencies
An error indicating a malfunction or incorrect installation of the central processor. To correct the situation, you should try to check the reliability or correct installation of the processor and its fastening in the socket.
When you turn on a working PC, after a few seconds, one short signal is heard, which should please the ears of any user ...
This speaker of the system unit signals you that the self-test was successful, no faults were found, the operating system starts loading.
If any problems are detected, the BIOS chip will generate appropriate beeps in the system speaker.
The nature and sequence of these signals depend on BIOS versions.
What do beeps mean when you turn on your computer?
1. There are no signals - the power supply unit (PSU) is faulty or not connected to the motherboard.
Clean it of dust.
Check the security of the power supply connector on the motherboard.
If it doesn't help, the PSU needs to be replaced or repaired.
2. Continuous signal - the PSU is faulty. See point 1.
3. 1 short beep - no errors found, PC is OK.
4. 1 short repetitive signal - problems with the PSU. See point 1.
5. 1 long repeating signal - RAM malfunction. Try removing the RAM module from the slot and inserting it again. If it doesn't work, replace it.
6. 2 short beeps - minor errors detected. Check the reliability of fastening loops and cables in the motherboard connectors. Set BIOS to default values (Load BIOS Defaults).
7. 3 long beeps - keyboard controller malfunction. Check the integrity of the keyboard cable and the quality of the connections. Test the keyboard on a known good PC. If that doesn't work, the motherboard will need to be repaired or replaced.
8. 1 long and 1 short beeps - malfunction of the RAM. See point 5.
9. 1 long and 2 short beeps - video card malfunction. It is recommended to remove the video card and reinsert it. Check the integrity and quality of the monitor cable connection. If it doesn't help, replace the video card.
10. 1 long and 3 short beeps - keyboard malfunction. See point 7.
11. 1 long and 9 short beeps - an error while reading data from the BIOS chip.
A rewrite (flashing) of the microcircuit is required. If it doesn't help, replace the chip.
1. There are no signals - the power supply unit (PSU) is faulty or not connected to the motherboard. Clean it of dust. Check the security of the power supply connector on the motherboard. If it doesn't help, the PSU needs to be replaced or repaired.
2. 1 short beep - no errors found, PC is OK.
3. 2 short beeps - malfunction of the RAM. Try removing the RAM module from the slot and inserting it again. If it doesn't work, replace it.
4. 3 short beeps - error of the first 64 KB of main memory. See point 3.
5. 4 short beeps - malfunction of the system timer. Restart your PC. If that doesn't work, the motherboard will need to be repaired or replaced.
6. 5 short beeps - malfunction of the central processor. Restart your PC. If that doesn't work, the processor will need to be replaced.
7. 6 short beeps - keyboard controller malfunction. Check the integrity of the keyboard cable and the tightness of the connections. Test the keyboard on a known good PC. If that doesn't work, the motherboard will need to be repaired or replaced.
8. 7 short beeps - motherboard malfunction. Restart your PC. If that doesn't work, the motherboard will need to be repaired or replaced.
9. 8 short beeps - video card RAM malfunction. Restart your PC. If it doesn't help, replace the video card.
10. 9 short beeps - an error while checking the checksum of the BIOS chip. A rewrite (flashing) of the microcircuit is required. If it doesn't help, replace the chip.
11. 10 short beeps - unable to write to CMOS memory. Clear the contents of the memory (to do this, turn off the PC, unplug the network cable from the socket. Find the switch next to the CMOS memory battery, set it to the Clear CMOS position. Press - with the network cable disconnected! - the PC power button. Set the switch to its original position. If there is no switch on your motherboard, remove the battery for half an hour or an hour). Set BIOS to default values (Load BIOS Defaults). If it doesn't help, replace the chip.
12. 11 short beeps - malfunction of the RAM. See point 3.
13. 1 long and 2 short beeps - video card malfunction. It is recommended to remove the video card and reinsert it. Check the integrity and quality of the monitor cable connection. If it doesn't help, replace the video card.
14. 1 long and 3 short beeps - video card malfunction. See point 13.
15. 1 long and 8 short beeps - video card malfunction. See point 13.
Phoenix BIOS Signals:
1-1-3. CMOS data write/read error.
1-1-4. BIOS chip content checksum error.
1-2-1. The motherboard is faulty.
1-2-2. DMA controller initialization error.
1-2-3. An error occurred while trying to read/write to one of the DMA channels.
1-3-1. Memory refresh error.
1-3-3. Error when testing the first 64 KB of RAM.
1-3-4. Similar to the previous one.
1-4-1. The motherboard is faulty.
1-4-2. Memory test error.
1-4-3. System timer error.
1-4-4. Error accessing I/O port.
2-x-x. Problems with the first 64k of memory (x - from 1 to 4)
3-1-1. Error initializing the second DMA channel.
3-1-2. Error initializing the first DMA channel.
3-1-4. The motherboard is faulty.
3-2-4. Keyboard controller error.
3-3-4. Video memory test error.
4-2-1. System timer error.
4-2-3. Line error A20. The keyboard controller is faulty.
4-2-4. Error while running in protected mode. The CPU may be defective.
4-3-1. Error while testing RAM.
4-3-4. Real time clock error.
4-4-1. Serial port test error. Can be caused by a device using given port.
4-4-2. Parallel port test failed. See above.
4-4-3. Error while testing math coprocessor.
Attention!!!
1. If you do not feel sufficiently prepared, in case of problems, contact the specialists.
2. Perform all manipulations with the hardware with the power off!
3. Before repairing the PC, it is necessary to remove the electrostatic charge (for example, by touching the nickel-plated surface of the water tap with both hands).
4. Even after removing the electrostatic charge, try, if possible, not to touch the terminals of the central microprocessor, video adapter processor and other microcircuits.
5. Do not clean the oxidized gold-plated contacts of the video card and RAM modules with abrasive materials! For these purposes, you can use the stationery gum type "eraser".
6. Remember that most of the "malfunctions" of the PC are "cured" by a simple reboot!
7. If you do not know which manufacturer's BIOS is installed on your PC, look at the top line on the monitor screen when loading, for example, for Award there will be a line like Award Modular BIOS, for AMI - American Megatrends, Inc. The BIOS version must also be indicated in the passport of your PC.
The topic of this article will be the BIOS. First, we will deal with the question, what is the BIOS and what does it serve? And after that, we will describe the BIOS sound signals in as much detail as possible.
BIOS (Basic Input-Output System, basic input-output system) is a special program that is stored in a ROM (Read Only Memory) chip. Often there is an English-language designation for this type of memory - Read Only Memory, or abbreviated as ROM. In practice, for a long time now, instead of conventional ROMs of microcircuits, Flash memory has been used, which is rewritable, which allows the user to independently update BIOS versions.
BIOS functions
As for the BIOS functions, they are very extensive.
Firstly, as soon as the PC is powered on, control immediately passes to the BIOS. This program performs the initial testing of the components of the system unit. After a successful check, the BIOS transfers control of the computer next program, which is written to the Boot sector (boot sector) located on the boot disk (a hard disk, CD, floppy disk, flash drive, etc. can act as a boot disk). The procedure for initial equipment testing is called POST (Power-On Self Test - self-testing after power-on).
Secondly, thanks to the BIOS, a special CMOS chip stores the hardware configuration of the computer. When the PC is powered on, the current hardware configuration is compared with that stored in the chip. If the program finds differences between these two configurations, then the CMOS data will be updated and, if necessary, you will be prompted to enter BIOS Setup to specify the new parameters of the detected hardware. If no differences in the configurations are found, or if the configuration can be updated without user intervention, then the program performs the necessary settings (configuration) of the hardware components of the computer.
CMOS-memory (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) is a microcircuit (RAM or RAM - Random Access Memory) that is small in size. But since there is a need to save information in it even after turning off the power, the CMOS memory is additionally powered by its own battery. There are several problems associated with this battery. One of them is a limited service life, which is 5-6 years. After the expiration of this period of time, the battery can no longer provide the required level of power, which leads to the loss of the stored information in the chip. Although this problem is solved quite simply - a new battery is installed.
Thirdly, using a special BIOS Setup program, the user can set various parameters and select operating modes for individual PC components. Here the user can also disable the equipment that is not used, or its use is undesirable in order to ensure the security of the computer. Fourth, the BIOS handles I/O operations. Actually for the sake of this, this system was originally developed. Thanks to presence of BIOS, For example, HDD understands that the head must be placed on a specific track or read a specific sector, etc.
If all programs had to contain instructions of this kind, then they would be huge, and their work would be very inefficient. In addition, with the advent of each new device, they would have to be modified. Therefore, in order to avoid such problems, a significant part of the work related to the processing of I / O operations was assigned to the BIOS. Naturally, BIOS operation did not remove absolutely all the problems, but significantly simplified the solution of most of them. It is worth noting that today this is no longer as relevant as in the days of operating system MS DOS. Modern operating systems such as Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows Seven make little use of the BIOS to handle I/O operations. But here it must be said that everything said is very conditional. In fact, all tasks are performed by the operating system in close cooperation with the BIOS, complementing each other functionally.
The average user often has to deal with that part of the BIOS, which is called BIOS Setup. BIOS Setup is a special subroutine that allows you to configure the operation of individual hardware components of your computer. The main difficulty in setting it up lies in the incomprehensible names of the options, which can tell little about anything to a not very advanced user. In addition, the problem is exacerbated by the lack of reference material on these settings. And if we consider it as a whole, then BIOS Setup is nothing special, the only thing that distinguishes it from other programs is a rather archaic interface compared to modern operating systems. All settings made by the user during computer setup through BIOS Setup are stored in the CMOS memory chip, where they are stored along with the system hardware configuration data.
How to reset BIOS settings
Below we will give several ways that help solve problems with resetting the BIOS, that is, returning it to its original state, in which all settings will be the same as they were before the changes made by the user. Often, such a simple operation as resetting the BIOS settings allows you to eliminate a number of problems with starting the computer, and also helps to avoid visiting a service center.
Method 1
We return the BIOS to the factory default settings using the BIOS setup interface, which will allow us not to disassemble the system unit once again. It should be noted that this method is feasible in cases where the BIOS is loaded. To reset the BIOS, you need to find the menu item load bios defaults or load setup defaults, as shown in the figure and press Enter.
Method 2
Reset BIOS settings with a battery. Before starting, you should turn off the power from the computer completely. After you make sure that all the cords are removed from the sockets, you need to remove the side cover of the system unit. Next, find the same battery and take it out for 5-10 minutes. After this period, you can return it to its place. The BIOS should reset.
Method 3
Zeroing BIOS settings using a jumper (jumper). Finding a jumper on the motherboard is easy, it is almost always located next to the battery. It is designated as Clear CMOS or Clear RTS. Sometimes, for easier access to it, motherboard manufacturers place it at the edge of the board. To reset the BIOS settings, you need to move the jumper for a few seconds from position 1-2 to position 2-3, and then return it to its place.
If everything is done correctly, then after turning on the computer, after a few seconds, one short signal will sound - this indicates that the system is in order and then the operating system will start loading. If a hardware problem is detected in the system, the signal will look different. By the type of signal, you can determine what kind of malfunction is detected, and what further actions should be undertaken. All BIOS signals (served using a speaker) are distinguished depending on its version and, of course, depending on the nature of the detected malfunction. The BIOS version is determined based on the documentation that comes with the motherboard. If the documents are missing for some reason, then you can determine the BIOS version using special utilities, which are available in abundance on the Internet. Another BIOS version is usually displayed on the monitor screen when the computer starts in the lower left corner. Of all the BIOS manufacturers on the market, two main competitors should be singled out, the software of which is equipped with the vast majority of modern PCs. These are two well-known brands such as American Megatrends (AMI) and Award Software. So let's take a look at the AMI beep first.
BIOS beeps: AMI BIOS
- - Two short beeps of the speaker means some kind of malfunction in the computer's RAM. Troubleshooting options: it is necessary to remove the memory module from the slot, wipe it with a dry brush and insert the module into place, if the signals are repeated after starting the PC, then further testing of the memory or its complete replacement may be required;
- - Three short beeps of the speaker in a row mean an error in reading the first 64 KB of the main memory of the PC. Troubleshooting options: it is necessary to remove the memory module from the slot, if there is dust, wipe the bar with a dry brush and insert the module into place, if the signals repeat, further testing of the memory or its complete replacement may be required;
- - Four consecutive short beeps of the speaker indicate a malfunction of the system timer. Troubleshooting options: restart the PC, and if the signals are repeated, then repair or replace the motherboard;
- - Five consecutive short beeps of the speaker indicate a malfunction of the central processor. Troubleshooting options: reboot the PC again, if the signals repeat, replace the processor;
- - Six consecutive short beeps from the speaker indicate a malfunction of the keyboard controller. Troubleshooting options: check the cable and keyboard connection to the system unit, check the keyboards on another computer. If after checking it turns out that the keyboard is working, then the option remains to repair the motherboard, or replace it;
- - Seven consecutive short beeps of the speaker indicate a malfunction of the motherboard. Troubleshooting options: reboot again and if the signals are repeated, then repair or purchase of a new motherboard will be required;
- - Eight consecutive short beeps from the speaker indicate a problem with the graphics card's memory. Troubleshooting options: if the signals repeat after a reboot, either repairing the old one or buying a new video card will be required;
- - Nine short beeps in a row indicate a malfunction of the BIOS chip itself. Troubleshooting options: flashing the microcircuit or its complete replacement;
- - Ten consecutive short beeps of the speaker indicate the impossibility of writing to the CMOS memory. Troubleshooting options: zeroing the CMOS memory with one of the above options. If the signals persist after setting the BIOS defaults, the CMOS memory module needs to be replaced;
- - Eleven consecutive short beeps of the speaker indicate a malfunction of the RAM. Troubleshooting options: it is necessary to remove the memory module from the slot, if there is dust, wipe the bar with a dry brush and insert the module into place, if the signals repeat, further testing of the memory or its complete replacement may be required;
- - One long and three short speaker beeps as well as one long and eight short beeps again indicate a video card malfunction. Troubleshooting options are the same as in the previous case.
- - The absence of speaker signals may indicate a malfunction of the power supply. Troubleshooting options: check the fastening of the power supply plugs to the connectors on the motherboard, clean the power supply from dust. If these steps do not work, if possible, try to test the PSU on another computer. With such symptoms, you will either need to repair it or purchase a new power supply.
BIOS beeps: Award BIOS
- - One short speaker signal means no errors in the system and the computer is in a fully functional state;
- - Two consecutive short beeps of the speaker indicate the detection of "minor" errors. Troubleshooting options: you need to check the reliability of fastening of components and cables to the PC motherboard, then try to set the default BIOS values;
- - A short repeated speaker signal indicates a PSU failure. Troubleshooting options: check the fastening of the power supply plugs to the connectors on the motherboard, clean the power supply from dust. If these steps do not work, if possible, try to test the PSU on another computer. With such symptoms, either its repair or the purchase of a new power supply will be required;
- - A long repeating speaker beep indicates a malfunction of the RAM. Troubleshooting options: it is necessary to remove the memory module from the slot, if there is dust, wipe the bar with a dry brush and insert the module into place, if the signals repeat, further testing of the memory or its complete replacement may be required;
- - Three long beeps from the speaker indicate a keyboard controller failure. Troubleshooting options: check the cable and keyboard connection to the system unit, check the keyboards on another computer. If after checking it turns out that the keyboard is working, then the option remains to repair the motherboard, or replace it;
- - One long and one short speaker beeps indicate a malfunction of the RAM. Troubleshooting options: it is necessary to remove the memory module from the slot, if there is dust, wipe the bar with a dry brush and insert the module into place, if the signals repeat, further testing of the memory or its complete replacement may be required;
- - One long and two short speaker beeps indicate a video card failure. Troubleshooting options: you need to check the cable going from the video card to the monitor, if the cable is in order, you need to remove the video card from the slot, wipe it from dust, if necessary, and insert it back. If these actions did not work, then it may be necessary to repair or purchase a new video card;
- - One long and three short speaker beeps indicate a keyboard controller failure. Troubleshooting options: check the cable and keyboard connection to the system unit, check the keyboards on another computer. If after checking it turns out that the keyboard is working, then the option remains to repair the motherboard, or replace it;
- - One long and nine consecutive short beeps of the speaker indicate a malfunction of the BIOS chip itself. Troubleshooting options: flashing the microcircuit or its complete replacement;
- - The absence of speaker signals may indicate a malfunction of the power supply. Troubleshooting options: check the fastening of the power supply plugs to the connectors on the motherboard, clean the power supply from dust. If as a result of the actions taken, when you try to turn on the computer again, there are no signals, the power supply needs to be repaired.
Separately, it is necessary to note the continuous sound signals of the BIOS that change in tone. This can be caused by either a faulty PSU or an overheating PC.
Computer crashes and errors
We turn on the computer ... but it does not turn on. Everyone panic! Many do just that, immediately panicking, and thinking it is not clear what. But here's what's important to remember.
When you turn on the computer, the diagnostic program starts every time Power On Self Test (POST), which checks the most important components of the computer (from the central processing unit to the keyboard controller).
The test results are output to the computer speaker in the form of a special sound signal. I think at least one peak you heard, but did not attach importance to it. So these signals allow you to see the direction where to dig, where to look for the problem.
Since the manufacturer BIOS not one, then the sound signals differ for each of them. Next, I give the decoding of the signals of some manufacturers.
Award BIOS
| 1 short beep | no errors found |
| No signals | |
| continuous signal | defective power supply |
| 2 short beeps | minor errors. It is necessary to check the reliability of the loop contacts in the connectors of the IDE / SATA controllers on the motherboard and on hard drives |
| 3 long beeps | keyboard controller error. The motherboard may need to be replaced. |
| 1 long and 1 short signals | |
| found problems with the video adapter | |
| keyboard initialization error | |
| 1 long and 9 short beeps | error while reading data from the permanent memory chip |
| 1 long repeating signal | incorrect installation of memory modules |
| 1 short repeating signal | power supply problems |
AMI BIOS
| 1 short beep | no errors found |
| No signals | Faulty or not connected to the motherboard power supply |
| 2 short beeps | |
| 3 short beeps | error during main memory operation (first 64 KB) |
| 4 short beeps | faulty system timer |
| 5 short beeps | faulty cpu |
| 6 short beeps | keyboard controller defective |
| 7 short beeps | faulty motherboard |
| 8 short beeps | video adapter problems |
| 9 short beeps | |
| 10 short beeps | unable to write to CMOS memory |
| 11 short beeps | faulty external cache |
| 1 long and 2 short beeps | bad video adapter |
| 1 long and 3 short beeps | bad video adapter |
| 1 long and 8 short beeps | problems with the video adapter or the monitor is not connected |
Phoenix BIOS
| 1-1-3 | CMOS data write/read error |
| 1-1-4 | BIOS chip checksum error |
| 1-2-1 | faulty motherboard |
| 1-2-2 | DMA controller initialization error |
| 1-2-3 | error when trying to read/write to one of the DMA channels |
| 1-3-1 | RAM problem found |
| 1-3-3 | |
| 1-3-4 | error when testing the first 64 KB of RAM |
| 1-4-1 | faulty motherboard |
| 1-4-2 | RAM problems found |
| 1-4-3 | system timer error |
| 1-4-4 | I/O port access error. The error may be caused by a peripheral using this port for its work. |
| 3-1-1 | second DMA channel initialization error |
| 3-1-2 | first DMA channel initialization error |
| 3-1-4 | faulty motherboard |
| 3-2-4 | keyboard controller error |
| 3-3-4 | video memory test error |
| 4-2-1 | system timer error |
| 4-2-3 | error during the operation of line A20. Faulty keyboard controller |
| 4-2-4 | error while running in protected mode. Possibly a defective CPU |
| 4-3-1 | memory test error |
Every time the computer boots up, the system unit emits a squeak. Not everyone knows that this is a signal indicating the health of the system unit. And only a few know the decoding of these signals from the "system unit".
That's what we'll talk about. If you are reading this material, I recommend printing it now. When decryption is needed, it will not work to get out on the Internet. :)
So what is the "sistemnik" beeping about. These signals are test results hardware computer (cooler there, RAM, vidyuha, etc.). Every time you boot your computer, it tests the hardware, and reports the results with this very squeak. Deciphering the squeaks of the system unit below.
* One short beep.
Decryption:
Everything is fine. Test passed successfully. You can continue to work. It happens that some system blocks generally at this moment do not squeak.
* No squeak, no image on the computer screen.
Decryption:
Malfunctions in the power supply, or processor.
Correction:
First, check to see if the power cord is plugged into an outlet. If everything is in order, try connecting a known working device to the power filter (such a cord with a box in which there are many sockets, there is also a switch button, usually red). A phone charger is suitable, of course, with a phone connected to it. You need to check all the outlets of the power filter. If the outlet is working, the phone will charge. Next, we check if the power supply starts up when the computer start button is pressed. In this case, the cooler (fan) of the power supply should at least twitch. If there is movement, look for new processor, otherwise - new block nutrition. You also need to check the motherboard power cable. It may happen that he moved away.
* One long continuous beep.
Decryption:
Power supply defective.
Correction:
Purchasing a new power supply.
* Two short beeps.
Decryption:
Minor bugs in BIOS settings.
Correction:
Go into the BIOS and set the optimal parameters. Exit to the BIOS is usually done with the key. If you don't know what to change, then set the default values. To do this, press the button. To exit and save - , . Some versions of the BIOS themselves prompt conflicting settings items with backlighting. Also, you can reset the BIOS settings by removing the motherboard battery for a few seconds.
* Three long beeps.
Decryption:
The keyboard is missing.
Correction:
Plug the keyboard into the PS/2 socket. If this does not help, you will have to change the keyboard.
* Three short beeps.
Decryption:
RAM error.
Correction:
To do this, you need to check if there are memory strips on the motherboard. Don't laugh, it happens. Then you need to take out all the memory sticks, carefully sweep away the accumulated dust, and stick the memory stick in turn, and start the system unit. If on some bar the "system unit" squeaks, then this may mean that the bar is faulty.
* One long and one short beep.
Decryption:
RAM is not working properly.
Correction:
It is possible that one or more memory sticks are conflicting with each other. You need to alternately stick one stick of memory and try to start the computer.
* One long and two short beeps.
Decryption:
The video adapter is not working properly.
Correction:
Fix settings in BIOS.
* One long and three short beeps.
Decryption:
The video adapter does not work.
Correction:
Check the performance of the video card. To do this, you need another, obviously working video card. You can also try to remove the card, remove dust from the slot, and stick the card in place. And do not forget to check if the card has additional power plugs. Power to such video cards must be given by a separate cord to which no device is connected. I also suggest checking if the monitor is connected and working. Try blowing out the plug connecting the monitor to the computer.
* One long and eight short beeps.
Decryption:
The video adapter is not working or the monitor is not connected.
Correction:
Same as written above.
* One long and nine short beeps.
Decryption:
Error reading BIOS data.
Correction:
Try resetting the BIOS settings by removing the battery. If that doesn't help, then flashing the BIOS. But that's another story, requiring a separate article. I will try to write it as soon as possible.
* Four short beeps.
Decryption:
The system timer does not work.
Correction:
You can try resetting the BIOS. But, unfortunately, it rarely helps. There is only one way out - to replace or repair motherboard.
* Five short beeps.
Decryption:
The processor is not working properly.
Correction:
Try to clean the dust from the processor slot, make sure the heatsink is clean and the processor temperature is low.
* Six short beeps.
Decryption:
Keyboard defective.
* Seven short beeps.
Decryption:
Motherboard malfunctions.
Correction:
Send the motherboard in for repair, or purchase a new one.
* Eight short beeps.
Decryption:
Faults in the video memory.
Correction:
Take the video adapter in for repair, or purchase a new one.
* Nine short beeps.
Decryption:
Incorrect BIOS checksum.
Correction:
Usually it is proposed to reset the BIOS settings and allows you to work further. In which case, you can reset the BIOS by removing the battery.
* Ten short beeps.
Decryption:
Error writing data to the CMOS chip.
Correction:
This error can occur when flashing the BIOS. Therefore, we will describe this part in another article.
* Eleven short beeps.
Decryption:
The cache is not working properly.
Correction:
Reset BIOS. If this does not help, we carry the computer for repair, or install a new processor.
* Repetitive long beeps.
Decryption:
Faulty or incorrectly connected RAM.
Correction:
Reconnection of memory sticks. Calculation of the faulty, by connecting in turn and starting the computer. Dust cleaning.
* Repetitive short beeps.
Decryption:
The power supply is not working properly.
Correction:
Checking the performance of the power supply, checking the cords for breakage, checking the surge protector, and, last but not least, replacing the power supply.
That's all. There will be questions - ask.
PS: To reset the BIOS, instead of removing the battery, you can use a special jumper - a jumper. Its location can be found in the motherboard documentation.
Addition: BIOS signal encodingsif the computer died.
AWARD BIOS Signals
Continuous signal. Power supply defective.
2 short. Minor bugs found.
3 long. Keyboard controller error.
1 long + 1 short. Problems with RAM.
1 long + 2 short. Video card problem.
1 long + 3 short. A keyboard initialization error has occurred.
1 long + 9 short. An error occurred while reading data from the permanent memory chip.
1 long repeating. Memory modules are installed incorrectly.
1 short recurring. Problems with the power supply.
AMI BIOS Signals
There are no signals. The power supply is defective or not connected to the motherboard.
1 short. No errors found.
2 short. RAM parity error.
3 short. An error occurred during the operation of the first 64 KB of main memory.
4 short. The system timer is faulty.
5 short. Faulty CPU.
6 short. The keyboard controller is faulty.
7 short. The motherboard is faulty.
8 short. Bad video memory.
9 short. BIOS chip content checksum error.
10 short. Unable to write to CMOS memory.
11 short. External cache-memory (installed in slots on the motherboard) is faulty.
1 long + 2 short. Bad video card.
1 long + 3 short. Bad video card.
1 long + 8 short. Problems with the video card or the monitor is not connected.
PHOENIX BIOS Signals
1-1-3. CMOS data write/read error.
1-1-4. BIOS chip content checksum error.
1-2-1. The motherboard is faulty.
1-2-2. DMA controller initialization error.
1-2-3. An error occurred while trying to read/write to one of the DMA channels.
1-3-1. Memory refresh error.
1-3-3. Error when testing the first 64 KB of RAM.
1-3-4. Error when testing the first 64 KB of RAM.
1-4-1. The motherboard is faulty.
1-4-2. Memory test error.
1-4-3. System timer error.
1-4-4. Error accessing I/O port.
3-1-1. Error initializing the second DMA channel.
3-1-2. Error initializing the first DMA channel.
3-1-4. The motherboard is faulty.
3-2-4. Keyboard controller error.
3-3-4. Video memory test error.
4-2-1. System timer error.
4-2-3. Line error A20. The keyboard controller is faulty.
4-2-4. Error while running in protected mode. The CPU may be defective.
4-3-1. Error while testing RAM.
4-3-4. Real time clock error.
4-4-1. Serial port test error. The error may be caused by a device using this port.
4-4-2. Parallel port test failed. The error may be caused by a device using this port.
4-4-3. Error while testing math coprocessor.
Most people paid attention to the fact that at the moment the computer is turned on, before the OS starts loading, always beeps. Normally, this is a short beep, indicating that the PC component test (Power On Self Test, or POST) was completed without errors. If any problems are found in the components, the computer will let you know about it using the indicated number of short or long beeps. Correctly decoding the signal, you can find out exactly what kind of failure occurred in the PC.
BIOS beeps
As a rule, any serviceable computer emits a short beep before starting to boot - this a nuance common to all types of motherboards and BIOS configurations. In some cases, it happens that the sound signal is not heard at all - this means that the manufacturer of your device decided to save a little and did not equip the PC with a system speaker. For a working computer, this is not such a big problem, but in the event of a serious malfunction, you will not be able to understand the essence of the problem and fix it without the intervention of specialists.
In case of detection of malfunctions in the operation of iron, BIOS starts making certain sounds, designed to tell the user exactly where the problem lies. The sequence of these signals varies, and in order to decipher them correctly, you need to know the BIOS manufacturer of your particular motherboard. Of course, the easiest way is to get the instructions for the motherboard, but what if for some reason it was not saved?
How to find out the bios manufacturer
There are several ways that are installed in the system:
Bios signal decoding
After you have found out the manufacturer of your BIOS, you can proceed directly to decoding the sound signals.
AMI
| Sound sequence | Decryption | User Action |
| one short | The computer is working, no critical problems found | Wait for the operating system to load and work calmly. |
| Two short | Either you forgot to turn on your scanner/printer or there is a RAM parity error |
|
| Three short | Error of the first 64 KB of RAM |
|
| Four short | System timer failure |
|
| five short | Processor malfunctions |
|
| six short | Keyboard initialization error | Reconnect the keyboard to the PC. If the error persists, try replacing the keyboard - it may have failed. If, when you connect a new, obviously working device, the computer continues to emit the same signal, take the motherboard for repair - most likely, the problem is in it. |
| seven short | Motherboard error | The algorithm of actions is the same as with four short signals. |
| eight short | Video card failure | If you are using a discrete graphics card, remove it and try booting the PC with the built-in one. If the download went without problems, the video card has become unusable. In the absence of a built-in video card, you will need a known-good one to check your PC. |
| Nine short | BIOS checksum error | If the problem occurs after BIOS updates, try to roll it back to old version. But it is better to take the motherboard to a service center. |
| ten short | Failed to write to CMOS | Take the motherboard to a specialized center. |
| Eleven short | Motherboard cache error | One of the rarest this moment errors, which is found mainly on very old motherboards. In any case, you can not do without checking at the service center. |
| Long + short | Power supply problem | If you have some knowledge in this area, check all the voltages in the PSU with a voltmeter. Then evaluate the condition of the capacitors inside the block - perhaps among them there are swollen ones that need to be replaced. If you are not sure that you can handle it on your own, take the PSU for repair or replace it with a new one. |
| Long + two short | Failure of the video card or malfunction of the RAM connectors | Replace motherboard. |
| Long + three short | Failure of the video card or installation of the wrong type of memory | Try taking out the video card and memory sticks one by one and start the PC without them. If the download went well, the culprit is obvious, if not, take the motherboard to a service center. |
| Long + four short | No graphics card | Check your video card connectors. Maybe she's out of order. |
| Long + eight short | Video card failure / monitor not connected | Check the video card connectors, try reconnecting it to the motherboard, and the monitor to the system unit. |
| Three long | Failed to check RAM | Reconnect the RAM sticks or replace them with known good ones. |
| Five short + long | RAM missing/incorrectly installed | Check the RAM sticks. |
| Continuous beep | Overheating of the PC / malfunction of the RAM or PSU | Check the health of the PSU and the temperature of the motherboard components. |
AWARD
| Sound sequence | Decryption | User Action |
| one short | POST completed without errors | Wait for the OS to load and get to work. |
| Two long | Minor validation issues | The monitor will prompt you to resolve errors using the CMOS Setup Utility program. |
| Three long | Keyboard problems | |
| Long + short | RAM problems | |
| Long + two short | Video card failure |
|
| Long + three short | No graphics card/video memory issues | See previous paragraph. |
| Long + nine short | ROM read error | Take the motherboard to a service center. |
| Constant short beep | Problem with RAM or PSU |
|
| Constant long beep | RAM errors | Remove the memory sticks, clean the connector from dust, wipe the contacts with a soft eraser and try to insert one by one into place. |
| Cyclically repeating short and long beeps | CPU problem |
|
| Continuous beep | PSU problems | If you have some knowledge in this area, check all the voltages in the PSU with a voltmeter. Then evaluate the condition of the capacitors inside the block - perhaps among them there are swollen ones that need to be replaced. If you can’t do it on your own, take the PSU for repair or replace it with a new one. |
Phoenix
| Sound sequence | Decryption | User Action |
| 1-1-2 | Critical processor problems | Substitute a known-good processor. |
| 1-1-3 | CMOS failure | |
| 1-1-4 | BIOS checksum error | If the problem occurred after updating the BIOS, try rolling it back to an older version. But it is better to take the motherboard to a service center. |
| 1-2-1 or constant long beeps | Motherboard problems | |
| 1-2-2 | DMA controller problems | See previous paragraph. |
| 1-3-1 | Failure in the RAM refresh circuit | Take out the RAM, clean the connector from dust, wipe the contacts with a soft eraser and try to insert the strips one by one into place. |
| 1-3-3 | Error of the first 64 KB of RAM |
|
| 1-4-2 | RAM initialization failure | Take out the RAM, clean the connector from dust, wipe the contacts with an eraser and try to insert the strips one by one into place. |
| 1-4-3 | System timer problems |
|
| 1-4-4 | I/O port error | |
| 3-1-1 or 3-1-2 | DMA channels error | Check the motherboard in a specialized center. |
| 3-2-4 | Keyboard problems | Reconnect the device or connect a known working device to the PC. If it doesn't help, take the motherboard to a service center. |
| 3-3-4 or the sound of a siren | Problems in the video card |
|
| 3-4-1 | Serious failure when accessing the monitor | Reconnect the monitor to the PC and reboot. If the error continues, either the monitor or the motherboard is faulty. |
| 3-4-2 | Problems with the bios of the video card |
|
| 4-2-2 | Problems not identified | Wait for the download to finish and continue working. |
| 4-2-4 | Critical CPU failure | The processor has become unusable - replace it. |
| 4-3-2 or 4-3-3 | 1st/2nd timer failure | Check the motherboard in the service center. |
| 4-4-1 | Serial port problems | Reconnect external equipment and restart PC. |
| 4-4-2 | Parallel Port Issues | The algorithm of actions is the same as in the paragraph above. |
| 4-4-3 | Math coprocessor failure | Check the motherboard in the service center. |
We continue to decipher the BIOS beeps that may appear when you turn on the computer.
Today we will consider a fairly popular combination of signals, consisting of 1 long and 3 short ones.
In 99% of cases, this combination means a malfunction of the video system. In other words, problems with the video card. Moreover, problems can be both with integrated graphics in, and with an external video card.
What to do?
In this case, first of all, if you have a built-in video card, then you need to try installing an external one, asking friends or acquaintances to check it. You also need to try to pull out and insert back the RAM modules.
Integrated graphics card on the motherboard
If the problem goes away when you install an external video card and the computer turns on, then the video card built into the motherboard is out of order.
If you have an external video card installed and the computer emits a combination of 1 long and 3 short beeps, then the first step is to remove the video card and wipe the contacts with a stationery eraser. After inserting the video card and try to turn on the computer.
External video card of the system unit
In the absence of a positive result, use another, obviously working video card, or try to start the PC from the built-in one, if it is present on the motherboard.
