Screwauger

I have a Compaq Presario 7000z CTO (7plm11) running windows ME.

It is nearly six years old and I have replaced the hard drive and restored the system numerous times.

I got up Monday and the computer was off, I had left it on and a golf game running at midnight.

Pushing the power switch did nothing initially then after fiddling with the power switch it randomly started the system only to boot normally (power fan and lights all working and normal desktop) and at random intervals, shuts back down with an activation of the floppy drive, a couple faint beeps (1-3) and off. Sometimes after 2 minutes sometimes after 20 minutes.

In troubleshooting it I found some steps on Google and if I unplug the cord from the PSU then 'hold in the power switch for five seconds' then replug in the PSU the system starts predictably to a functioning desktop only to shut down again randomly as above noted.

I panicked and ordered a new power switch but I am now wondering if I am needing a new PSU??
or is the MB shot or some component (hardware) interfering?? Thanks.

linderman

Both hunches of yours is where I would start. The best advice I can give you at this point is dont get snockered with a generic crap PSU.

I would install the new case switch (cheap fix) best buys or newegg will have those.

This is the PSU I would get without a moments heistation for your system.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16817104953

six years on a PSU is rather impressive; also have you ever upgraded the video card from the original ? and if you have; what make and model did you install?

keep us posted on your progress.

Screwauger

I am glad to hear your optimism. A gent on another site had me remove my RAM and said if the CPU didn't beep it was shot. I removed it, it did not beep!! However, it still starts up to my desktop and just a moment ago I got almost through cutting a CD of back up files before it just shuts down with the faint beeps and off.

I ordered the power switch from HP site and they list the psu for 54.00 which they say is the unit for this model (their site says) 300watt.

I will check out your link as I have not ordered the psu and should get the switch tomorrow.

It's weird.

Steve

Screwauger

WOW that psu sounds sweet. Sure its compatible?

Nope have never added RAM or upgraded video. Still has the orig Nvidia card though it is perhaps on its way out as I have a series of faint grayish lines across the screen?? Been there awhile and do not affect much.

But since month four have been replacing hard drives probably get about a year each.

Thanks much for any tips.
S

linderman

Yes the fortron model is compatible with your HP and a FAR better supply at that !!

six years on the same PSU that ole workhorse owns you nothing



keep us posted

Screwauger

Thanks.

I am no tech or even close and have been able to muddle through thus far. Have read a lot about 20 vs 24 pin problems with compatibility.

I am also reading alot about "never messing with the psu" and I am curious how to safely do the swap without frying myself?? Links, tips, etc welcomed.

Steve

PS now I cannot find the HP PSU I referenced and want to order the Fortron as I am dying here without my system.

Screwauger

217220-001.jpg


Dude. Help. This is the exact match and as we now has gone nearly six years. Why would I change (other than the obvious added 100 watts).

Bit nervous cause I know HP's will come with ample replacement instructions etc. Convince me, I need to order it today I think.

S

Screwauger

Pain in the behind I am. Can you/anyone make any rec for Video Card upgrade for this system? Thanks very much.

Steve

linderman

Video card = ATI 9550 128mg Do a search on ebay

and if you plan on upgrading your video card; then you definetly dont want the stock PSU for that computer! it wont power the system with the better video card added


replacing the PSU is super easy >>>> unplug the PSU from the wall >>> remove the four screws that mount the PSU >>> disengage the snap clips that hold the motherboard & cpu connector >>> thats it

this process is as easy as changing ram almost

the new unit will also come with very good details

you have no need to worry about a 24pin motherboard connector >>>> yours is a 20 pin for sure >>>> most all newer socket 939 and similar very new releases are 24 pin motherboard connectors

dont hesitate to ask more questions and enjoy

http://cgi.ebay.com/New-ATI-RADEON-9...QQcmdZViewItem

Screwauger

Joe,

I took the tower apart, cleaned heatsinks, blew out all dust etc, reseated video card and RAM. Still no ps in mail yet.

Now when I get the system to boot up (still having to go through the procedure of unplugging from wall, holding in ps for few then plug in and go) I have no video. Looks like safe mode but is not and if I try to reinstall driver says device working properly and yet when I click on a game get error X Video Driver.

What is going on. Could the video card be causing the shut downs. I did leave Links (a high powered graphic golf sim) open on desktop when this occurred?? Just speculating.

I am ready to scoot over to staples and by new RAM and a new Video Card before the PSU??? HMMMM

Steve

linderman

Steve:

there are always multiple causes to most computer problems.

You could try by-passing the computer switch; by removing the pins that connect from the power switch (it will be a two pin connector similar to a jumper shunt) and using a very small electronics screw driver or paper clip to make the connection. just be careful not to touch anything else other than the case switch pions on the mother board, its not a hard thing to do; especially with some small bladed screw drivers!

you video card could be bad, and you will definetly benefit from a newer card anyway. I just hope you dont over pay when going to a retial outlet. Best Buy and Staples arent bad if you desire that route. The up side is just about any video card you buy nowdays that is 4X & 8X compatible will be ALOT better then the card you have and so would getting a total of one gig of ram !

dont forget you will need to install the new video card without the drivers at first to allow you to enter the device manager and remove the old video card drivers BEFORE you install the new drivers >>>>> very important step. The new video card will run on windows generic drivers until you have the time to remove the old drivers and install new drivers.

Make sure the new video card has a dedicated power plug >>> that is a good sign of more recent release then some old clunkers they mayyyyy offer you

the new video card is not going to run well with old PSU, PSU will barely produce what is needed by the original spec

NOW: if you go to staples they sell ANTEC power supplies get a Antec SP-450 or above and you will be fine!
Antec SP-500 would be awesome >>>> retial it should be around $89.00

dont get suckered into any generic crappers,
best buy = dynex (generic)
I was however impressed with Staples carrying the antec line of products






fire away with the questions;

Screwauger

over simplified response to your well written post, however, could my bad video card be causing the system to power off after the short interval. As I loose sight of this as the Primary issue. Now it is under five minutes each time and off.

The switch piece I did read somewhere else but admit that is over my head a bit. I get that its like "hotwiring" it but when I pull the power switch plug off the pipeline there are nineteen pins there and not sure which ones to touch??


Or should I just relax and try the switch first when it comes in the mail, then the PSU, then the video card, then the RAM to be more systematic in finding out why it just wont stay running?

Thx

The link to the Radeon Card is sweet and anything I saw with indep. fan/heat sink was in the $250-350 range. I should really just grab that rather than spending 50-80 on something not near as nice.

linderman

Steve:

first off to try to limit soem of the confusion. Almost never have I seen a video card be the "cause" of system shutdown. It is common for video cards not to fire at all, or produce weird colors and streaking when they get hot or stressed,

the power switch also is a pass or fail dilemma, the switch eithers gives the PSU the green light to fire up or it does not >>>> sorry

now PSU on the other hand is capable of damn near anything, and it sounds for sure like you are experiencing a bum PSU.

To give you piece of mind; I would try the Antec SP-450 or above from Staples if this does not cure your problem simply return it; they have a very good return policy.

However lunch is on me, if the PSU is not your culprit!

just relax trouble shoot your problem with one component at a time and you will enjoy conquering the beast.

Screwauger

Thanks Much Joe,

I shot over to Staples and they have the 500watt for about what you quoted, $79 plus.

I should get the switch tomorrow so if it is a no go, I will go get the psu at Staples. Providing I get this ironed out then I will look to upgrade my vid and RAM.

It is weird that yesterday it started with normal graphics and today without graphics?

Thanks again.

Just would love to get it started for an hour to back up my email, cookies and stuff as I am lost w/o them and probably overusing this work laptop a bit.

linderman

was the staples brand an Antec or Enermax dont forget: FWIW newegg.com has that awesome forton which is superior to almost all other units and for only $51.50 newegg is a very fast shipper I have always received all products from newegg the next day ! just food for thought

but the antec 500 watt will certainly handle your system with ease

Screwauger

It was the Antec 500 and they had 350 and 400. No other brand but Antec. And heatsinks for 15.00 and I am wondering?? I have cleaned mine many many times and the fan as well but it kind of "rocks" a little on its base, not freely but with minimal pressure.

Anyway, I just rekindled my PayPal account so I could bid on or buy that video card and as much a piece of crap this system has been, it is mine and I have been able to keep her running. I am confident this can be resolved though must admit, was looking at new systems but definately not in a position to to that right now.

Thanx

Screwauger

To Clarify, you linked me to a 400 w at newegg which is 41.50

when you said 51.50 above that corresponds to the Fortron 450w

That is also compatible?

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16817104954

whodat

yes, i would think so
also, dont forget about a ram upgrade, its a cheap performance kick
good luck

Screwauger

OK. Still waiting on the brown truck for the ps.

Today, I am typing on the system that yesterday would not stay running for more than 5 minutes. Today it seems to stay running for nearly an hour. Long enough for me to d/l and reinstall nvidia drivers and get my vid working again (albeit with the gray lines).

I am baffled. It did the beep shut off about 40 minutes ago. I started it right back up and running ever since????

I look at my RAM and hard to tell what it is or to compare to the stuff at staples. I have two empty slots and 128 in the filled slot. Dont think I can afford the gig but maybe another 128??

If it keeps shutting down on me I am going to get the psu at staples but do you think it could be overheating and need a heatsink or fan or both?

Steve

linderman

Steve:


I think you are making a smart move to spend a modest amount of money on your current system to keep you content for say another year, and your current plans should not be a disappointment for you! You will see pleasant improvements from a FAR better video card and more ram guaranteed; and you wont be spending any $1500.00 to $1800.00 doing it either.

I would be willing to bet that if I let you try your system after upgrading; then let you try a current release system, I would have a hard time pulling the cash difference from your grasp.

I used to have 3 or four demo computers set-up for would be buyers, I lost more sales with those demo units available then I ever lost thru sticker shock. We have ALL been spoiled by the past; todays component releases dont pack the WOW factor of yester year IMHO

I think holding off for a new system for a year makes pefect sense; in light of the fact the Intel Conroe processor should be released and probally even affordable by fall of 2007. And windows Vista (newest operating system )should have all the bugs ironed out by then.

The Intel Conroe processor is even getting great reviews by AMD people. looks like this release will restore Intel to the throne in an undisputed way.