In the process of using computers in daily life, our computers inevitably encounter various problems. Especially for those old computers, the probability of malfunctions is very high. However, seeking help from others or sending them for repairs every time a problem arises is not only troublesome but also expensive. In fact, some malfunctions can be detected by ourselves. Usually, when our computer encounters problems, various short or long beeping sounds often occur during startup. These sounds are prompts emitted by the BIOS during self-check to indicate faults. In most cases, we can determine which hardware area of the computer has problems based on the different sounds. We can solve simple problems on our own. Below, YUNZE’s editor will provide you with a detailed introduction to the possible startup sounds and issues.
Firstly, we need to understand that the BIOS program used in computers is divided into different types based on the manufacturer: AWARD BIOS, AMI BIOS, PHOENIX BIOS, as well as other jumper-free BIOS programs and brand-specific BIOS programs, etc.
Currently, the most common motherboard BIOS are Award BIOS and AMI BIOS, while Phoenix BIOS is relatively rare nowadays. Everyone should identify the correct one according to the model.
PS: The BIOS model used in the computer can be found on the BIOS chip or in the information from the self-check during startup (usually located at the bottom of the computer screen, a combination of English letters and numbers).
â–¶ Award BIOS Beep Codes Meaning #
1 short beep: The system boots normally without any issues.
2 short beeps: General error. Enter CMOS Setup and reconfigure incorrect options.
1 long, 1 short beep: RAM or motherboard error. Try replacing the RAM module; if the issue persists, consider replacing the motherboard.
1 long, 2 short beeps: Display or display card error.
1 long, 3 short beeps: Keyboard controller error. Check the motherboard.
1 long, 9 short beeps: Mainboard flash RAM or EPROM error, BIOS is corrupted. Try replacing the flash RAM.
Continuous beeping (long beep): The memory module is not inserted properly or is damaged. Reinsert the memory module; if the problem persists, replace it.
Continuous beeping: Power supply, display, or display card not properly connected. Check all connectors.
Repeating short beeps: Power supply issue.
No sound, no display: Power supply issue.
â–¶ AMI BIOS Beep Codes Meaning #
1 short beep: System boots successfully.
2 short beeps: Parity circuit failure in the first 64 KB of RAM. Reconfigure the RAM or replace it if necessary.
3 short beeps: Base 64 KB memory failure. Reseat or replace the RAM modules.
4 short beeps: System timer failure. Check the motherboard or replace it if needed.
5 short beeps: Processor failure. Verify the CPU is correctly seated or replace it if necessary.
6 short beeps: Gate A20 failure (keyboard controller). Check the keyboard controller or motherboard.
7 short beeps: Virtual mode exception error. Check the CPU or motherboard.
8 short beeps: Display memory read/write failure. Reseat or replace the display card.
9 short beeps: ROM checksum error. BIOS ROM is corrupted. Replace the BIOS chip or reflash the BIOS.
10 short beeps: CMOS shutdown register read/write error. Replace the motherboard.
11 short beeps: Cache memory error. Reseat or replace the CPU and cache memory.
1 long, 2 short beeps: Display adapter error. Reseat or replace the display card.
1 long, 3 short beeps: EGA/VGA video card error. Reseat or replace the video card.
Beeping continuously: Power supply, motherboard, or keyboard issue. Check connections and components.
No sound, no display: Power supply, motherboard, or graphics card problem. Check connections and components.
â–¶ Phoenix BIOS Self-Test Beep Codes and Meanings #
1 beep: System boots successfully.
1 beep, 1 short pause, 1 beep: DRAM refresh failure. Reseat or replace RAM modules.
1 beep, 2 short pauses, 1 beep: Parity circuit failure in the first 64 KB of RAM. Reconfigure or replace RAM.
1 beep, 3 short pauses, 1 beep: Base 64 KB memory failure. Reseat or replace RAM modules.
1 long beep, 2 short pauses, 1 beep: Display adapter error. Reseat or replace the display card.
1 long beep, 3 short pauses, 1 beep: EGA/VGA video card error. Reseat or replace the video card.
3 short beeps, 1 short pause, 1 beep: 8742 Keyboard Controller test failure. Check or replace the keyboard.
4 short beeps, 1 short pause, 1 beep: Timer failure. Check the motherboard or replace it if needed.
5 short beeps, 1 short pause, 1 beep: Processor failure. Verify CPU seating or replace it if necessary.
6 short beeps, 1 short pause, 1 beep: Gate A20 failure. Check the keyboard controller or motherboard.
7 short beeps, 1 short pause, 1 beep: Virtual mode exception error. Check the CPU or motherboard.
Continuous beeping: Power supply, motherboard, or keyboard issue. Check connections and components.
No sound, no display: Power supply, motherboard, or graphics card problem. Check connections and components.
That’s all for sharing how to identify computer issues based on the motherboard BIOS beep codes. Feel free to bookmark this tutorial for future reference. When your computer encounters problems, simply listen attentively to determine the source of the issue!
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