Boot issues

fiachr_a

XP won't start, only shows the graphics card name, memory, HD name, followed by the BIOS, but then a black screen. When the windows disc gets used to boot the same thing happens. Using F8 key to get into the menu options doesn't work either. Any ideas?

Xterminator

Hi OP

F8 should work, even if your hard drive is dead. However (and no offense) is it possible your doing it wrong?

If your happy you know how to get into the bios and you still cannot, then i suspect it is a hardware problem. its time for cover off. remove 1 item and try again to access bios.

If its a laptop you can probably only remove 1 ram chip at a time, the hdd, and maybe a wireless card if removable. If its a pc, you can remove other peripheral devices as a process of elimination.

if your not up for that or you still have an issue, it may be time to get a professional to diagnose the problem, and an estimate for repair.

fiachr_a

It's an old tower PC. I've done all the F8, crtl F8 stuff, and all the other keys too. Also, removed the memory, graphics card, flat battery, HD connector, keyboard but still won't work. Tried different BIOS settings as well. Anyone got other useful suggestions?