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XPS 400 Won't Boot
After I push the button to turn on the computer, the 3 and 4 light stays on as does the power light and then the boot sequence stops. Per instructions, I removed one memory card at a time and try to reboot testing each one, but the results are the same. Any idea what to do next?
Thanks.
shesagordie
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February 13th, 2009 17:00
zellchuck
You could buy a new compatible memory module and try that, but I believe that Davet50 is right, the motherboard has failed and needs to be replaced.
Bev.
Davet50
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February 13th, 2009 10:00
Lets try some simple things first (Put at least one memory stick in or both makes no differnece at this time.
Unplug the computer. unplug all external connections, once all external devices are disconnected press and hold the power button for 10~20 secs.
plug in only the keyboard,mouse and monitor. plug in the computer and try to boot. Note the diagnostic lights as well as the color and condition of the power button light.
zellchuck
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February 13th, 2009 13:00
First, thanks. Did what you suggested. As soon as I pushed the power button, the 3 and 4 light came on; green and solid. Power light also green and solid. The hardrive light came on also; green; then went off. No sounds from the computer. Next? :-)
zellchuck
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February 13th, 2009 14:00
Thanks. I did all combinations and unfortunately, the same result. Any other thoughts?
shesagordie
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February 13th, 2009 14:00
zellchuck
Have you tried installing the each module in different slots?
Remove all the memory modules, then install only one module in slot 1, then see if the system boots and if the computer starts normally, reinstall an additional module.
Does not boot, move the module to slot 2 and again see if the system boots, no boot, try the module in slot 3, no boot, try installing in slot 4.
Still does not boot, then remove the first module and using the second one, repeat the sequence described above.
Still no boot, try installing any remaining modules, one at a time, using the above procedure.
Continue until you have identified a faulty module [or slot] or reinstalled all modules without error.
Bev.
Davet50
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February 13th, 2009 15:00
for a final test remove all the ram, remove all the cards, unplug the power connector to the harddrives. Press the power button and note indications.No significant change then the mb is bad. Your power supply is ok as you are getting a green button light.
I do believe though that the motherboard has given up the ghost.
zellchuck
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February 13th, 2009 17:00
Thank you all for your support. I tried another module and no change. New motherboard on its way. Thanks again.
fixinmyputer
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April 11th, 2009 14:00
seems to be a common problem. Do a search on - lights 3 4 - "Page 2 of 66,424"
when you ordered a new motherboard did you get a dell or other, I am not sure if it is an atx or btx board
http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dimxps/en/sm/techov.htm#1084976
shesagordie
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April 11th, 2009 15:00
The XPS 400 supports only a Dell BTX motherboard.
Bev.
Davet50
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April 11th, 2009 16:00
The board will not fit unless you are willing to hack up your case find pinout to the front panel.(which are a highly gaurded secret). Then maybe will have to add in a power supply and then you will need to buy a new copy of windows as you cannot use your dell disk on a non dell motherboard.
Bottom line You need to get it from Dell or a from a reconditioned Dell board.
fixinmyputer
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April 11th, 2009 16:00
oh my - how much did it cost ?
the ubtx at geeks is $27( on sale today http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtid=D955XCS&cpc=SCH )
or micro http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtid=BOXD945GCZL&cat=MBB
or a 10 pack for 17 each http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtid=B5LD2-TVM-10PK&cpc=SCH
maybe one would fit - unless its got that dell proprietary power supply pinout ....
shesagordie
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April 11th, 2009 16:00
fixinmyputer
A refurbished Dell OEM XPS 400 motherboard can be purchased from HERE
Bev.
fixinmyputer
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April 11th, 2009 17:00
the geeks intel u btx board has the same jacks - we'll see if it works
fixinmyputer
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April 11th, 2009 17:00
200$ for a motherboard for a 4 year old computer??!!!!!
sounds like throwing away good money. I'd rather buy a dell refurb for $3-400 or build a new one with standard parts and a cheap c2d.
$359 for a c2d dimension http://outlet.us.dell.com/ARBOnlineSales/topics/global.aspx/arb/online/en/InventoryDetails?systemId=EPBG5HV5&~lt=popup&c=us&l=en&s=dfh&cs=22
when you buy a dell with windows - you have a legal version of windows - it should not be tied to one motherboard - if the motherboard dies - why does the windows have to be re bought?
Ill tell you if the geeks INTEL board works iun my friend's 3100 ( also a btx )
fixinmyputer
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April 11th, 2009 18:00
intel 945p
http://support.intel.com/support/motherboards/desktop/sb/cs-009016.htm