Computer doesn't start up

[kilnfield]

Hi, I've searched for a similar problem on your pages but without success.

The computer is a Dell Vostro 1000 (laptop) running Vista Business. It has V1000Turion TL60 2.0Ghz Dual core.

Yesterday evening I loaded MS Security Essentials and did a quick scan using it. I then did some tidying up using CCleaner, after which I continued using the computer with no problems for about an hour.

This morning the computer will not start up. The screen is lit up and the cursor arrow is present and responds to the pad but that is all.

I have inserted the OS disc and this can be heard spinning but there is no other reaction to it.

I think that's all the info I can provide. Don't have a clue what to try next.

Regards.

[Jelly Bean]

Hello and welcome.

 

Restart the computer and repeatedly tap F8 and choose last known good config that worked or safe mode,do either of these get you into windows?

[kilnfield]

Thanks, tried this but no sign of life.

[Jelly Bean]

Are you able to enter BIOS and see the BIOS on the screen?

[kilnfield]

Pressing Fn + Esc to enter BIOS shuts down the computer

[Jelly Bean]

The key to press is usaly the Del key for a Dell computer.

 

Or it could be F1 or F2?

[kilnfield]

Thought it was Fn + Esc or Fn + F1, the latter does nothing at all. Tried all the above, F1, F2 & Del but not a flicker

[Jelly Bean]

You can do a system restore using the vista restore disk.

 

 

Documentation

[kilnfield]

Had to create a restore disc and loaded this but still no response. Am I missing something?

[RandyL]

F2 should get you into the BIOS on a Vostro 1000. Try holding it or tapping it at startup. If you can't get into the BIOS you have real problems.

[kilnfield]

Hi. don't know if the feeling of stupidity or relief is the greatest. Tried removing and reseating battery then the drive and it's up and running. Think I was looking for serious issues and overlooking the basics. Thanks for all your help which has been of benefit to me and ensured that I now have a recovery disc ready in case of future problems.

Regards, John

[RandyL]

That's great John.

 

Not exactly sure why but if it acts up again try replacing the battery.

 

If you ever need to use the disks you may need to access the BIOS to set it to boot from the CD drive first if it isn't already set that way. And of course it's always good to have those disks just in case.

 

I'm glad everything is working and thanks for letting everyone know.

 

Best wishes.