Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
the prompts to install the chipset drivers. Then install other drivers, such as video, sound,
and network.
After the important drivers are installed, you should install any service packs that weren't
already integrated into the OS install disc and finally any OS updates. For that last step,
you'll probably need to connect the network cable and go online. If your computer uses a
wireless connection, use the OS's wireless connection manager to connect to the wireless
network,providingtheSSIDandencryptionkeyasprompted.Aslongasyou'veinstalled
the latest service pack, the built-in firewall is turned on by default. After the OS updates,
you can install your favorite applications and put the system in service.
Troubleshooting New Installations
When the OS installation is complete, you should restart the system and it should boot
from the drive where the OS was installed. If any problems exist, here are some basic
items to check:
• If the system won't power up, check the power cord. If the cord is plugged into a
power strip, make sure the strip is switched on. Usually, a power switch can be found
on the front of the case, but some power supplies have a switch on the back as well. If
the power supply has a 115/230V switch, make sure it is set properly for the power in
your country (115V for the United States).
• Check to see whether the power switch is connected properly inside the case. There is
a cable connection from the switch to the motherboard; check both ends to ensure that
they are connected properly.
•Checkthemainpowerconnectorfromthesupplytotheboard.Makesuretheconnect-
ors are seated fully, and ensure that they are plugged in with the correct orientation.
• If the system appears to be running but you don't see anything on the display, check
the monitor to ensure that it is plugged in, turned on, and properly and securely con-
nected to the video card.
• Check the video card to ensure it is fully seated in the motherboard slot. Remove and
reseat the video card, and try a different slot if possible.
• If the system beeps more than once, the BIOS may be reporting a fatal error of some
type. See the BIOS Error code listings in
Chapter 20
for more information on what
these codes mean. Also, consult your motherboard documentation; look in the BIOS
section for a table of error codes. Note that continuous beeps might indicate a stuck
key on the keyboard.
• If a drive LED stays on continuously, the data cable is probably installed backward or
is offset by some pins. Check that the stripe on the cable is properly oriented toward
