Solved: Start up problem

I don't think my issue is specific to any system, but I'm using Vista so I started the thread here.

I'll start by saying my problem is very distressing. A few days ago my other computer (Compaq Presario 5180AN) wouldn't start up. I turned it on and off a few times and I eventually got the wonderful blue screen. I then left the computer for a few days.

I tried to get the computer going again today - and it simply won't do anything. It won't even load the 'Compaq' screen at the very beginning. It's making unusual starting sounds, and the power light occasionally flashes with the 'cylinder' light below it.

This is really a problem because I'm in my last year of school, have final exams in 3 weeks and I have a lot of notes on that computer. Any help is appreciated

 

Sounds like a very similar issue I've had to deal with recently (minus the BSOD instances).

After tearing the machine apart, I found a couple of the capacitors on the motherboard to be on the verge of going 'BOOM!' (the tops of them were severely domed out instead of being flat like they should be).

So what I'm basically saying is that it sounds like your motherboard could be fried.

 

While it may indeed be fried we need to start at the beginning with possible bad power supply and rather than waste time as I doubt you have a spare there, you really need to go to a shop where they can test the hardware but this is a hardware issue.

 

With the BSODs in the mix, I'm kinda leaning away from a PSU issue (with a failing PSU, there would be no BSODs, the system would simply die once the power goes).

 

While less likely a Bsod could be caused by psu, it is still possible.

 

I'm sending it back to the shop I got it from tomorrow. I asked for help on another forum, and the issue of RAM was raised. Is it possible that 'faulty' ram is the cause?

Another question; does anybody know what the flashing power light could mean? The light also flashes in time with a 'clicking' sound

Once again any help is appreciated

 

well, that could point to a harddrive problem

 

Good news! It was (only) the graphics card, an 8500GT. And it's getting replaced by a 9 series card