Inspiron 8500 - start up problems

Question

I have 2 start-up problems with my laptop: Firstly, the computer will not boot up at all unless the power cable is plugged in.  If i try without, the third light in the row of four on the hinge of the laptop goes orange and there is no response. Secondly, when booting up the computer it always starts up in DOS and comes up with the following message 'preparing one time boot menu...' followed by a list of boot devices such as Internal HDD to choose from.  I always have to escape this screen in order to log in normally.  Any idea how I can get rid of this and get the PC to start up in Windows? Thanks for your help.

pukame2 · Answer

If your unit doesn't boot up unless you use AC, your internal battery maybe at fault.
If the charging light stays red and never turns green, your battery is kaput.
Usually ypur DOS screen comes up when booting with battery power and goes nowhere, replace your battery.

http://computers.listings.ebay.com/Batteries-for-Laptops_Dell_W0QQfromZR4QQsacategoryZ60256QQsocmdZListingItemList

Click on above link for your laptop. Laptop batteries usually last 1 yr if plugged into AC power all the time, Take off battery when plugged into AC,. Better yet, when plugged in to UPS battery backup should AC power fail.

Locked Topics – Laptops General

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