Optiplex GX110 Boot problem

Question

Hi,    I am trying to fix a Optiplex GX110.   It is making BIOS beep in the pattern of 4 beeps, 2 beeps.   I removed the RAM, and reseated it, and off it went.   I shut the system down to see if it would start again, and it gave the same beep pattern.     When I eventually got it going again, I pulled the power plug out of the back just after the DELL screen came up, let the system wind down, and then put it back in.   The system booted normally, and it continued to boot normally as I tried pulling the plug on several more occassions. *I know pulling the plug isnt good - but hey, it works* -- This sorta has me stumped - can a faulty power switch in the front cause the above-mentioned problems?   The RAM seemed to be awful hot as well - like nearly too hot to handle. (I'm not sure if RAM usually gets that hot - but it seemed _too_ hot.) ****   Well, I await you responses to this issue. If you need more info, let me know.     Regards, JEFFREY

esbernal · Answer

Try running the 32 big diags off of the Resource CD/Driver and Utility CD, its usally going to be a case of a faulty motherboard but untill there is an error code of exactly what is going on with the system it might stay unresolved.     Try booting up with 1 stick of memory, also check the back of the system for any diagnostic lights of the back.   I hope that helps.

adaptcs · Answer

Hi Esbernal,                 Thanks for that.Is it possible to download the '32 big diags' program from anywhere, just in case they don't have the disc? It only has one stick of RAM in it as it is, and I have swapped it out to no avail. Thanks for your reply.   Regards,JEFFREY edit: spelling Message Edited by adaptcs on 02-03-2005 04:03 PM

DELL-Jesse L · Answer

adaptcs,

Thank you for using the Dell Community Forum.

You can download the 32 bit diags by clicking on the link below.

http://support.dell.com/support/downloads/type.aspx?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs&SystemID=PLX_PNT_P03_GX110&category=13&os=W98&osl=en&deviceid=196&devlib=13

adaptcs · Answer

Hi Jesse,                  I finaly got time to run the diagnostics program on that machine.   After running the complete test several times, I found no errors.   Is it possible that the Power Supply is the cause of all this?   I know the PSU is a special size, and that a standard one won't actually fit in the case, but is it OK for me to try a standard PSU by just sitting it on top of the case and plugging it all in??       Thanks for your help, JEFFREY

DHsieh · Answer

Most Dells have proprietary power supplies. If you plug a standard ATX power supply in, you may fry the motherboard.

adaptcs · Answer

Hi DHsieh,
I had heard as much.

That sorta pi**es me off a bit.:smileysad:

I only want to test with a ATX power supply.

I have no problems purchasing one from dell that will actually fit, however, I should be able plug a standard one in to see.

So how can I test the PSU???

Regards,
JEFFREY

adaptcs · Answer

Hi DHsieh,
I will have a think about that part - but the owner of the machine has mentioned that they are interested in getting a new machine anyway - maybe this is the final straw.

If I ordered the PSU from Dell, would they take it back and refund my money if it turned out to be something else causing the problem??

Regards,
JEFFREY

DHsieh · Answer

I know. I don't like proprietary parts either.
Take a look at this converter:
http://www.endpcnoise.com/cgi-bin/e/dellconverter.html
It is supposed to convert a standard ATX power supply to work in a Dell motherboard. I have never used it, so I suggest calling them and verifying that it will indeed work for the GX110. The alternative is to find another GX110 and borrow the power supply.

DHsieh · Answer

You will have to ask Dell. I don't have the answer to that one.

speedstep · Answer

@DHsieh wrote:
I know. I don't like proprietary parts either.
Take a look at this converter:
http://www.endpcnoise.com/cgi-bin/e/dellconverter.html
It is supposed to convert a standard ATX power supply to work in a Dell motherboard. I have never used it, so I suggest calling them and verifying that it will indeed work for the GX110. The alternative is to find another GX110 and borrow the power supply.

I have used this and the one from Centrix International.

Centrix calls it part number DELLCV and centirx only charges $10 for it. It works FINE. Tastes great less filling.

Doesnt sound like the poster knows how to work on computers so there is still the potential for damage using the adaptor. If you use the adaptor ONLY ATTACH THE PLUGS FROM THE ADAPTOR to the motherboard. There are other connectors on Higher wattage supplys that FIT onto the motherboard but it doesnt mean they are supposed to be used. You attach the adaptor and I usually RTV GLUE it on so that its permanent.

Then you attach the supply to the adaptor.

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Optiplex GX110 Boot problem

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