My computer won't start- please help!

Question

I have a brand new Dimension with a Pentium 4 processor.  It's only 2 days new. I used it the first day and it was fun. The second day I started it up and tried to sign on to the interente (AOL) and the computer froze.  I did an ALT+CTL+DELETE but that didn't help so I just shut the system down and re-started it. At that point the computer froze...the green lights on the tower are flashing but it's making a weird winding noise and nothing will appear on the screen. I spent hours on the phone trying to reach Dell Tech Support And it was determined that it's not a hardware problem so I was told to talk to the fee based software support department but I don't feel it's a software problem nor should I have to pay for repair on a brand new computer.  Any suggestions? I spoke to a computer friend of mine and he said it doesn't sound good and I might have to send the computer back.  :smileysad:   I appreciate any feedback.

Denny Denham · Answer

envygirl,

It doesn't sound like a software problem. Software problems rarely make noise. You have the capability of restoring the computer to "as shipped" condition. Follow the steps here.

If that does not totally correct the problem, go here and follow the steps to return the system. There is no reason why you should have to spend time (and, worse, software support money) to make a new computer work properly.

envygirl · Answer

Denny Denham,   Thanks for your quick response. I was hoping that the computer could be fixed but it sounds like I have a lemon. I just hope Dell doesn't give me the run around and will refund my money.

RoHe · Answer

You have 21 days from invoice date (not date you received PC) to get it replaced. So contact customer service and be politely insistent. Don't waste time because if the 21 days expire, they won't take it back.

Ron

envygirl · Answer

RoHe:   Thanks for the information. I've decided to send it back. It's a hassle but it's what I need to do.    I just hope my replacement isn't another lemon.

Jamiepe · Answer

What a total Joke!!!!!! They should have insisted you send it back. Depending on what rep you spoke to. In the mean time, learn as much about hardware as you can so you can speak their language, otherwise no one will care next time. Its the same as bringing your car into the shop. If you sound ignorant as most of us do, people will take advantage of you.

envygirl · Answer

Nope - they just kept transferring me around and I finally got fed up and decided to send it back today.  I had to tell the technician that it was not a software probably and clearly something was wrong with the hardware. I don't think I'll purchase another Dell. :smileymad:

envygirl · Answer

I just want my money back. Any opinions on Gateway? It can't be worse than Dell.

Georgia_Rebel · Answer

be sure you get one of those return numbers.....and dont acept a replacement...chances are the replacement could be a refurbished system......I wish you luck.....dont let them stall and let the 21 days pass you buy.......ley us know how its going

RoHe · Answer

I had Dell take my first 8400 back within the 21 days last year because it just wouldn't work properly. They were good about it. Dell paid for shipping the new one and for taking the first one back. Things happen. Systems get damaged in shipping and parts fail. The replacement 8400 (new, not refurbished) has worked perfectly since day 1.

Gateway may be no better or no worse...

Ron

Message Edited by RoHe on 11-03-2005 05:03 PM

Jamiepe · Answer

customer service should have been much better. You are withing the 21 days so you will be ok. Just save all records with dates. Get a cust service tech name and number if you have to along with recorded dates in the future as to what happened when. If you are evr feeling ignored...absolutly ask for a supervisor. It will keep that individual tech rep on his toes and fore the rep to be accountable. Lastly call early in the day when reps are at their best. Late in the day is when they are less willing to put their all into it. Its just human nature.

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My computer won't start- please help!

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