Problems when starting a computer can be a major obstacle to day-to-day productivity.
Disruption to computer startups can hinder work and daily activities. This guide provides complete solutions to various problems, such as power issues, blue screens, and stuck CD/DVD drives, with easy-to-follow troubleshooting steps.
Causes of Computer Not Turning On
1. Check the Electrical and Power Connections
Check all power cord connections on the computer and power outlets. Make sure that the power cord is properly plugged into the power source and that it is not damaged.
To ensure the power socket is working, connect another appliance, such as a light or phone charger, to the same socket. If other appliances do not turn on, there may be a problem with the power socket.
2. Check for RAM or Loose Components
Turn off the computer and unplug the power cord. Open the computer case to access the RAM. Carefully remove the RAM from its slot and reinstall it by ensuring the safety lock on the slot hears a “click”. This can often resolve the issue if the RAM is not properly installed.
If the computer still does not turn on after checking the connection and RAM, check the power supply. Signs of damage include a buzzing sound or burning smell from the power supply unit.
3. Danger Signs on Power Supply
If you smell a burning smell or hear a buzzing sound when you try to turn on your computer, turn it off immediately and unplug the power cord. Do not try to turn it on again before checking it further, as this could indicate serious damage to the power supply that could harm other components.
When the Operating System Won’t Turn On
Common Error Messages on Windows and Mac
In Windows, messages like “Missing Operating System” often appear if the system can’t find the drive where the operating system is installed.
Mac users may see a flashing globe icon or a question mark, indicating the same issue.
Quick solution:
- Remove any external devices, such as flash drives, external hard drives, or printers.
- Restart your computer and see if the system can turn back on.
Beep Code: How to Read and Understand It
A beep code is a sound signal that a computer generates when a startup experiences a problem, such as damaged RAM or difficulty reading other hardware.
Each beep pattern has a specific meaning: the number and duration of beeps (short or long) provide clues.
Take note of the beep pattern, then look for information from the motherboard manual or consult an experienced technician.
BIOS Memory Reset Steps
The BIOS memory on the motherboard sometimes needs to be reset to restore the correct boot order.
Steps:
- Turn off the computer completely and unplug all power cords.
- Open the computer case and look for a small, round-shaped battery, usually a CR2023.
- Remove the battery for 20 minutes, then put it back in place.
- Close the case and reconnect the power, then try restarting the computer.
Solutions for Blue Screen and Spinning Sphere on Mac
1. Enter Safe Mode
Safe Mode is a good way to fix problems when your computer won’t boot normally. In this mode, only the important programs and drivers will be loaded, so you can troubleshoot more easily.
Procedure for Windows
- Restart your computer.
- Immediately press the F8 button repeatedly before the Windows logo appears.
- Select Safe Mode from the menu that appears.
Procedure for Mac
- Restart your Mac computer.
- Immediately press and hold the Shift Key until the Apple logo appears.
After successfully entering Safe Mode, you can proceed with the following steps to restore the system to its previous settings.
2. Steps to Restore System to Previous Settings
Windows:
- After entering Safe Mode, open Control Panel.
- Select System and Security, and then select System.
- Click on System Protection, then select System Restore.
- Follow the instructions to select a recovery point before the problem occurs and perform a recovery.
Mac:
- If you successfully enter Safe Mode, open the installer of the software you just installed.
- Look for the option to Uninstall and run the process of removing the app.
3. How to Remove New Software That Causes Problems
If you experience a blue screen or spinning ball after installing new software, the best step is to remove it.
Using the Uninstall Feature in Windows:
- Enter Safe Mode as described.
- Open the Control Panel, then select Programs and Features.
- Find the newly installed software, right-click, and select Uninstall.
Using the Uninstall Feature on Mac:
- Enter Safe Mode.
- Open the Applications folder, and find the app you want to delete.
- Drag the app to Trash or use the uninstall option if available.
Computer Slow at Startup? Disable Unnecessary Programs
1. Managing the Task Manager in Windows
One of the reasons why a computer is slow when it starts up is the large number of programs that automatically run. To speed things up, you can disable unnecessary programs.
Find and Disable Intrusive Programs:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
- Select the Startup tab to see all the programs running at startup.
- Check each program and know what it does. If you don’t need anything, right-click and select Disable.
- After disabling non-essential programs, restart your computer to see the results.
2. Set Up Login Items on the Mac
Mac users can also experience slow startup because many applications are running while logged in. Removing the app from the sign-in list can help speed up this process.
How to Remove an App from the Login List:
- Open System Preferences from the Apple menu.
- Select Users & Groups, then select your account.
- Click the Login Items tab to see the apps launched when you log in.
- Select the app you want to remove and click the minus (-) button below the list.
- When you’re done, close the window and restart your computer.
Dealing with Locked CD/DVD Drives
Dealing with a locked CD/DVD drive can be very annoying, especially when you need the disc. Here are some practical ways to eject a stuck disk.
1. Manual Method to Eject a Disk
Using Paper Clips for Drive Tray-Loading
If your computer has a tray-loading drive, you can use a paper clip to eject the stuck disk.
Steps:
- Take a paper clip and straighten one of the ends.
- Locate the small hole under the drive tray.
- Insert the end of the paper clip into the hole and gently push it until the tray opens.
Gravity Techniques for Slot-Loading Drives
For computers with slot-loading drives, you can use gravity to help eject the disk.
Steps:
- Rotate the computer so that the drive slot is facing down.
- Press the eject button and let gravity help lower the disc from the slot.
2. Using a Credit Card for a Stuck Disk
If the above doesn’t work, you can use a credit card as a tool.
- Grab two credit cards or plastic cards that are flexible enough.
- Insert one card under the disc and another on top of the disc, so that the two cards are facing each other.
- Gently press down on both cards together and pull out the disk. Make sure not to use too much force so as not to damage the drive.