won't boot, error code 7, video card not connected? - help!

Question

Hello,
My dimension 8300 has recently refused to boot at startup. I ran the diagnosis at setup and got a hard drive error code 7. However, I eventually was able to get the computer to boot (not sure how - just kept restarting), and - until recently - it ran fine as long as I did not shut down. Today, however, the screen began to show random lines and other signs of malfunction (two long vertical lines). When I tried to reboot, I received a message saying the video card power extension cord wasn't connected. but when I checked the card all the connections were secure.

Any suggestions regarding what might be causing the problem?

ejn63 · Answer

The problem is a failing hard drive. Assuming you are still under warranty, call Dell, report the error, and they'll ship you a replacement drive.

If you still have access to the drive, BACK UP EVERYTHING you can't afford to lose, IMMEDIATELY. It is just a matter of time before the system won't boot at all, once the drive fails completely.

shesagordie · Answer

yaz8.     Code 7 means there is a read failure on the hard drive, therefore replace the hard drive ASP.   Bev.

yaz8 · Answer

Thanks - Unfortunately, warrant coverage expired about two weeks ago! Still, it's a chance to upgrade, I guess. the failed harddrive was a western digital xl40 (80gb). I would like to increase the size (my kids use this computer largely for gaming) to 120gb, 8mb cache, - any suggestions?? Does it have to be an ATA interface to remain compatible with the computer?

shesagordie · Answer

yaz8.

Try Seagate, some of their HDs have a five year warranty for just a few $ more. Western Digital and Hitachi also make good drives, try to avoid Maxtor.
The D8300 supports both SATA and PATA [IDE] hard drives

Bev.

Message Edited by shesagordie on 02-05-2005 05:33 PM

yaz8 · Answer

Thanks for all your help! I've ordered a replacement - went with a Seagate

shesagordie · Answer

yaz8. Pleased to have helped. Bev.

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won't boot, error code 7, video card not connected? - help!

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