pre-BIOS failure has occurred

Question

Hello, Does anyone know what to do if a 'pre-BIOS failure has occurred' as indicated by the dianostic lights? My system is Dimension 2400 desktop. Thanks in advance.   smei40

Kanuk001 · Answer

What is the pattern of LEDs on the machine?

smei40 · Answer

Charles, The pattern is:  all 'A,B,C,D' diagnostic lights are off. When I plug the power cable into wall electric outlet, the green light on front panel and the fan comes on without pushing power button. Then nothing else happens. No screen, no beep, no hard disk movement. All 'A,B,C,D' diagnostic lights off.  I can not turn off the power, even I hold down the power button in the front panel for more than one minute. I open the cover, I can see a green light on the mother board turnned on . When I unplugged the power supply cable connecting to the hard disk, the green light on front panel goes off. This means the power supply unit is OK? Thanks for your help.

Kanuk001 · Answer

Since the power light is coming on WITHOUT pressing the power button, it would seem that there is something seriously wrong. It could be a bad power button; it could be a bad MB; it could be a bad power supply. Unfortunately, only a technician (or someone who has had the same problem) can tell.   Is it under warranty? If not, it may be less expensive to replace. If so, call DELL.   The hard drive is probably ( but not necessarily ) still good. If so, the data can be salvaged.

smei40 · Answer

Thanks, Charles. the machine just passed warranty date by 3 months. I will double check the power button. If it's OK, the MB must be the problem.

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pre-BIOS failure has occurred

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