Review of how you can troubleshoot BIOS error or blue screen

BIOS / Boot Up Problems

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BIOS Error

You receive a blank screen when you power up your computer or right after the P.O.S.T (Power On Self Test) completes. Perhaps you may also have received the blue screen error messages while working in Windows.

 

Possible Causes

This is usually a result of incorrect settings in the BIOS. Perhaps, you have read from the Internet that by tweaking your BIOS settings such as the FSB to increase processor clock speed, you can boost computer performance. But ouch! You realised you have over-done it and Windows now refuses to start up.

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Resolution

Depending on situations, it could be a fairly easy problem to solve. Some times you only need to revert the changes that you have made. If you can't remember the values you have tweaked, it's recommended to reset all settings to default value.

To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Restart the computer
  2. Hit DEL or any key that prompts to enter the BIOS
  3. In the BIOS menu, select the option to either
    • Restore Previous Settings or
    • Reset All Settings to Default
  4. Save changes and exit the BIOS
  5. Restart the computer

 

Further Recommendations

In certain cases when you receive a completely blank screen when you power up your computer, and therefore do not have the option to enter the BIOS, you may have to do so by manually resetting a jumper on the motherboard to revert the BIOS values to default. Jumpers are generally small plastic plugs that contain a metal bridge to join two or more connecting points on a printed circuit board. Before you start, ensure that you have your hardware manual ready with you. Alternatively, you can always search for instructions on your manufacturer's website. Lastly, be sure to observe all safety precautions!

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