Award bios signals. Computer motherboard beeps. Decoding BIOS beeps

Greetings, friends! Today I will tell you about BIOS sound signals. You may have noticed that when you turn on your computer, it makes a beeping sound or, in other words, beeps. This actually beeps your computer's BIOS, thereby telling you whether everything is fine with your computer or if there is any problem. Let's try to understand this topic in as much detail as possible.

What do the BIOS beeps mean when you turn on your computer?

Whatever BIOS is installed on your motherboard, you should hear one short beep when you turn on your PC. This means that everything is working fine and Windows will start loading after it. However, sometimes the opposite is true. The BIOS beeps like crazy, and the computer either doesn’t turn on at all, or the startup ends on the very first black screen - the BIOS bootloader.

This is where today's knowledge will come in handy. Because by this beeping you can determine what exactly is out of order in your PC.

Well, have you already looked at what BIOS you have? Now you can look at the decoding of BIOS sound signals.

BIOS AMI beeps. Full transcript

Decoding sound signals BIOS AWARD

This is how the Phoenix BIOS beeps in a special way

BIOS Phoenix squeaks a little differently than its brothers. It is more melodic, so to speak in this context. Dotted sound signals from the Phoenix BIOS alternate with pauses between them. And absolutely all signals from that BIOS are always short.

BIOS does not beep when you turn on the PC

Quite often it happens that when you turn on the PC, the BIOS does not beep at all. Why? Depends on the specific situation. To be on topic, first you need to know what a speaker is and why it is needed.

What is a motherboard speaker?

Motherboard speaker- it's miniature tweeter, warning the user about malfunctions in the operation of your computer even before turning it on. In other words, a speaker is a means of displaying information about the state of the computer. Also, a speaker is a device that produces BIOS sound signals!

This is what the speaker looks like on the motherboard. It is he who helps emit BIOS signals!

Some reasons why your PC may not beep at startup

It often happens that manufacturers of budget computers (and not only budget ones) either forget to install a speaker on the motherboard, or deliberately save on this spare part. Accordingly, the BIOS does not beep, because there is simply nothing to beep. If you urgently need to diagnose a problem with your computer, you can simply borrow your friend's speaker for the day. Fortunately, pulling it out and inserting it will not be difficult for you.

Another reason why you may not hear BIOS beeps when you turn on your computer is that you accidentally touched or pulled it, and it just became a little disconnected. In this case, insert it more tightly and everything will beep. By the way, there are also motherboards in which the speaker is not disconnected at all.

The BIOS does not beep on laptops, because they do not install a speaker on them for aesthetic reasons. Imagine if every time you turned on your laptop, it gave you a characteristic, high-frequency signal. It's annoying.

Especially if your wife has already fallen asleep, and you decide to play tanks in secret, you turn on the laptop, and here you are wearing BIIIIIIIP!!! Your wife immediately woke up and hit you with a star. In general, the speaker is not so relevant on a laptop.

Although some laptops can produce similar audio signals through external speakers and even headphones. Everyone who encounters this is trying to get rid of this squeak (pipiska) as soon as possible by any means.

Where and how to connect the speaker on the motherboard?

This will be useful for you to know if you decide to borrow the missing speaker from a friend or buy it. When you removed the speaker from a friend’s motherboard, you should have noticed that the place where it is connected is marked with characteristic inscriptions, most often it appears there Speaker or spk or spkr. The polarity of the speaker does not matter, so you can connect the speaker without error.

Several examples of motherboards with designated places for connecting a speaker.

Let's summarize

The article turned out to be quite lengthy, but I hope it helped you understand today’s topic. At a minimum, you can now connect the speaker to the motherboard and know why it is needed. We also looked at the decoding of sound signals for the main and most popular BIOS versions. If your BIOS version differs from those considered, then simply specify your request in a search engine, for example “ decoding BIOS sound signals IBM/DELL».

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Many people know that when you start a computer, the BIOS is first loaded, which immediately scans and checks all devices for serviceability and ability to function normally. BIOS at booting Windows are a consequence of the fact that some kind of error has been detected in the system.

Of course, it is almost impossible to remember all of them, so you should always have the instructions in front of your eyes. Or, for example, print this article and use it in the future.

It is worth noting that BIOSes differ from different manufacturers, and, accordingly, too.

For reference, I would like to say, how you can determine the BIOS brand so that you know, just in case something happens, and can correctly identify the initialization error. The name is visible when loading the PC, or using some programs, for example, Everest (Aida).

Let's start with the oldies. I don’t think it’s worth describing all possible signal options, but it’s worth mentioning only the most basic and frequently occurring ones.

1 short:

Blank screen and 1 signal: The video system is faulty and therefore no information is displayed on the screen.

2 short: monitor is not connected.

problems detected with motherboard.

If

A short signal that either repeats periodically or is simply continuous: some failures or defects in the motherboard or power supply.

If there is no signal at all, then this means that you have a motherboard or a power supply.

SignalsAMI BIOS:

1 short: POST completed successfully. That is, no errors were found.

1 long and then 1 short: Some problems were discovered with the power supply.

1 long and then 4 short: video card not detected.

2 short: The printer or scanner is turned on.

3 long signal: RAM problems. Try reinstalling it or replacing the rulers.

4 short: The system timer has failed.

5 short: Some problems have been detected with the processor.

7 short: at mat. problems have been detected on the board.

8 short: The video card memory generated an error.

1 long and then 2 short: the video card has some problems (Mono / CGA)

If 1 long and then 3 short: the video card has some problems (EGA / VGA)

1 long and then 8 short: There is no monitor or the video card is faulty.

Blank screen and no signal: the processor has failed, or there is poor contact at its legs.

The signal is continuous: The power supply is faulty or the computer is overheating

BIOS signals from Award:

1 short: POST completed successfully. No flaws found.

2 short sounds: Only minor interference was detected. It will be necessary to check the contacts and various fastenings of the cables, hard drives, and the like.

3 long: an error caused by the controller for working with the keyboard.

1 short and then 1 long: error reading or writing information from RAM.

1 long and then 2 short: Video card errors detected.

1 long and then 3 short: error reading or writing information from video memory.

1 long and then 3 short: error reading or writing data from ROM.

A short signal that repeats periodically: Some defects were detected in the power supply.

A long signal that repeats periodically: Problems with RAM.

Repeated beep, sometimes at high, sometimes at low low frequencies: Problems with the processor.

Continuous signal: Malfunctions in the power supply.

And lastly... If you have some other version of BIOS, or you want to find out all the sound ones, then go to the manufacturer’s website and look at the instructions. If you don't find detailed instructions on similar sites, then try searching for more detailed information on the links provided in the Everest program.

The topic of this article will be BIOS. First, we will deal with the question, what is BIOS and what does it serve? And then we will describe the BIOS sound signals in as much detail as possible.

BIOS (Basic Input-Output System, basic system input-output) is a special program that is stored in a ROM (read-only memory) chip. The English designation for this type of memory is often found – Read Only Memory, or ROM for short. In practice already for a long time Instead of conventional ROM chips, they use Flash memory, which is rewritable, which allows the user to independently update BIOS versions.

BIOS Features

Regarding BIOS functions, then they are very extensive.

Firstly, as soon as the PC’s power is turned on, control immediately passes to the BIOS. This program performs initial testing of system unit components. After a successful check, the BIOS transfers control of the computer to the next program, which is written to the Boot sector (boot sector) located on the boot disk (as boot disk can act hard drive, CD, floppy disk, flash drive, etc.). The initial testing procedure for equipment is called POST (Power-On). Self Test– self-test after turning on the power).

Secondly, thanks to BIOS, the computer's hardware configuration is stored in a special CMOS chip. When the PC is powered on, a comparison is made between the current hardware configuration and the one stored in the chip. If the program finds differences between these two configurations, then the CMOS memory data will be updated and, if necessary, you will be prompted to go to BIOS Setup to specify the new parameters of the detected hardware. If differences in configurations are not detected, or the configuration update can be performed without user intervention, then the program carries out the necessary settings (configuration) of the computer’s hardware components.

CMOS memory (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) is a small RAM chip (RAM or RAM - Random Access Memory). But since there is a need to retain information in it even after the power is turned off, the CMOS memory is additionally powered by its own battery. This battery itself is associated with several problems. One of them is a limited service life, which is 5-6 years. After this period of time has passed, the battery can no longer provide the required level of power, which leads to the loss of stored information in the chip. Although this problem can be solved quite simply - install a new battery.

Thirdly, with the help of special BIOS programs Setup the user can set various parameters and select operating modes for individual PC components. Here the user can disable equipment that is not used or its use is undesirable in order to ensure computer security. Fourthly, when BIOS help I/O operations are processed. This is actually why this system was originally developed. Thanks to the presence of BIOS, for example, the hard drive understands that the head needs to be placed on a specific track or read a certain sector, etc.

If all programs had to contain instructions of this kind, then they would be huge in size, and their work would be very inefficient. In addition, with the advent of each new device they would have to be modified. Therefore, in order to avoid such problems, a significant part of the work associated with processing I/O operations was assigned to the BIOS. Naturally, BIOS operation did not solve absolutely all problems, but significantly simplified the solution to most of them. It is worth noting that today this is no longer as relevant as it was in times operating system MS-DOS. Modern operating systems such as Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows Seven make little or no use of the BIOS's I/O capabilities. But here it must be said that everything said is very conditional. In fact, all tasks are performed by the operating system in close interaction with the BIOS, complementing each other functionally.

The average user more often has to deal with that part of the BIOS called BIOS Setup. BIOS Setup is a special subroutine that allows you to configure the operation of individual computer hardware components. The main difficulty in setting it up lies in the unclear names of the options, which can tell little to a less advanced user. In addition, the problem is exacerbated by the lack of reference material for these settings. But if we look at it as a whole, BIOS Setup is nothing special; the only thing that sets it apart from other programs is its rather archaic interface compared to modern operating systems. All settings made by the user while setting up the computer via BIOS Setup are saved to the CMOS memory chip, where they are stored along with data about the system’s hardware configuration.

How to reset BIOS settings

Below we will give several methods that help solve problems with resetting the BIOS, that is, returning it to original state, in which all settings will be as they were before the changes made by the user. Often, such a simple operation as resetting the BIOS settings allows you to eliminate a number of problems with starting your computer, and also helps to avoid visiting a service center.

Method 1

We return the BIOS to the factory default settings using the interface BIOS setup, which will allow us not to disassemble the system unit once again. It should be noted that this method feasible in cases where the BIOS is loading. To reset the BIOS, you need to find the load bios defaults or load setup defaults item in the menu, as shown in the figure and press Enter.

Method 2

Reset BIOS settings using a battery. Before you begin, you should completely disconnect power from your computer. After you make sure that all cords are removed from the sockets, you need to remove the side cover of the system unit. Next, find the same battery and remove it for 5-10 minutes. After this period, you can return it to its place. The BIOS should be reset.

Method 3

Reset the BIOS settings using a jumper (jumper). Finding a jumper on the motherboard is easy; it is almost always located next to the battery. It is designated as Clear CMOS or Clear RTS. Sometimes motherboard manufacturers place it near the edge of the board to make it easier to access. To reset the BIOS settings, you need to move the jumper for a few seconds from position 1-2 to position 2-3, and then return it to its place.

If everything is done correctly, then after turning on the computer, after a few seconds you will hear one short signal - this indicates that the system is in order and the operating system will then begin loading. If hardware problems are detected in the system, the signal will have a different appearance. By the type of signal, you can determine what kind of malfunction is detected, and what further actions should be undertaken. All BIOS signals (supplied using a speaker) are distinguished depending on its version and, of course, depending on the nature of the detected malfunction. The BIOS version is determined based on the documentation that comes with the motherboard. If for some reason the documents are missing, then you can determine the BIOS version using special utilities, which are available in abundance on the Internet. More BIOS version usually displayed on the monitor screen when the computer starts in the lower left corner. Of all the BIOS manufacturers on the market, two main competitors should be highlighted: software which the vast majority of modern PCs are equipped with. These are two well-known brands such as American Megatrends(AMI) and Award Software. So, first we will look at the AMI audio alarm.

BIOS beeps: AMI BIOS

• – Two short beeps from the speaker indicate some kind of malfunction in the computer’s RAM. Troubleshooting options: you need to remove the memory module from the slot, wipe it with a dry brush and insert the module into place; if after starting the PC the signals repeat, then further testing of the memory or its complete replacement may be required;
• – Three consecutive short beeps from the speaker indicate an error in reading the first 64 KB of PC main memory. Troubleshooting options: it is necessary to remove the memory module from the slot, if there is dust, wipe the strip with a dry brush and insert the module into place; if the signals repeat, further testing of the memory or its complete replacement may be required;

• – Four consecutive short beeps from the speaker indicate a system timer malfunction. Troubleshooting options: reboot the PC again, and if the signals repeat, then repair or replace the system board;
• – Five in a row short signals speakers indicate a malfunction of the central processor. Options for troubleshooting: reboot the PC again, if the signals repeat, replace the processor;
• – Six consecutive short beeps from the speaker indicate a malfunction of the keyboard controller. Troubleshooting options: Check the cable and connection of the keyboard to system unit, check the keyboards on another computer. If after checking it turns out that the keyboard is working, then the only option left is to repair the motherboard or replace it;
• – Seven consecutive short beeps from the speaker indicate a malfunction of the motherboard. Troubleshooting options: reboot again and if the signals repeat, then repair or purchase of a new motherboard will be required;
• – Eight consecutive short beeps from the speaker indicate a memory failure graphics card. Troubleshooting options: if the signals repeat after a reboot, you will need to either repair the old one or purchase new video card;
• – Nine short beeps in a row indicate a malfunction of the BIOS chips. Options for troubleshooting: flashing the microcircuit or replacing it completely;
• – Ten consecutive short beeps from the speaker indicate the impossibility of writing to the CMOS memory. Troubleshooting options: clearing the CMOS memory using one of the above options. If after installation BIOS values By default, the signals will repeat, then the CMOS memory module must be replaced;
• – Eleven short beeps in a row from the speaker indicate a faulty RAM. Troubleshooting options: it is necessary to remove the memory module from the slot, if there is dust, wipe the strip with a dry brush and insert the module into place; if the signals repeat, further testing of the memory or its complete replacement may be required;
• – One long and three short beeps from the speaker as well as one long and eight short beeps again indicate a faulty video card. The troubleshooting options are the same as in the previous case.
• – The absence of speaker signals may indicate a faulty power supply. Troubleshooting options: check the fastening of the power supply plugs to the connectors on the motherboard, clean the power supply from dust. If these steps do not produce results, if possible, try to test the power supply on another computer. If such symptoms occur, you will need to either repair it or purchase a new power supply.

BIOS beeps: Award BIOS

• – One short beep from the speaker means there are no errors in the system and the computer is in fully working order;
• – Two consecutive short beeps from the speaker indicate the detection of “minor” errors. Troubleshooting options: Check that components and cables are securely attached to the system board PC, then try to set the BIOS to default values;

• – A short, repeating speaker signal indicates a faulty power supply. Troubleshooting options: check the fastening of the power supply plugs to the connectors on the motherboard, clean the power supply from dust. If these steps do not produce results, if possible, try to test the power supply on another computer. If such symptoms occur, you will need to either repair it or purchase a new power supply;
• – A long, repeating beep from the speaker indicates a RAM problem. Troubleshooting options: it is necessary to remove the memory module from the slot, if there is dust, wipe the strip with a dry brush and insert the module into place; if the signals repeat, further testing of the memory or its complete replacement may be required;
• – Three long beeps from the speaker indicate a fault with the keyboard controller. Troubleshooting options: check the cable and connection of the keyboard to the system unit, check the keyboards on another computer. If after checking it turns out that the keyboard is working, then the only option left is to repair the motherboard or replace it;
• – One long and one short beep from the speaker indicates a faulty RAM. Troubleshooting options: it is necessary to remove the memory module from the slot, if there is dust, wipe the strip with a dry brush and insert the module into place; if the signals repeat, further testing of the memory or its complete replacement may be required;
• – One long and two short beeps from the speaker indicate a faulty video card. Troubleshooting options: you need to check the cable going from the video card to the monitor, if the cable is OK, you need to remove the video card from the slot, wipe it off dust, if necessary, and insert it back. If these actions do not produce results, then you may need to repair or purchase a new video card;
• – One long and three short beeps from the speaker indicate a fault with the keyboard controller. Troubleshooting options: check the cable and connection of the keyboard to the system unit, check the keyboards on another computer. If after checking it turns out that the keyboard is working, then the only option left is to repair the motherboard or replace it;
• – One long and nine consecutive short beeps from the speaker indicate a malfunction of the BIOS chip itself. Options for troubleshooting: flashing the microcircuit or replacing it completely;
• – The absence of speaker signals may indicate a faulty power supply. Troubleshooting options: check the fastening of the power supply plugs to the connectors on the motherboard, clean the power supply from dust. If, as a result of the actions taken, when you try to turn on the computer again, there are no signals, the power supply needs to be repaired.

Separately, it is necessary to note the continuous BIOS sound signals that change in tone. This can be caused either by a faulty power supply or an overheating PC.

Computer crashes and errors

Most people paid attention to the fact that when the computer is turned on, before the OS starts loading, there is always a beep. Normally, this is a short beep, indicating that testing of PC components (Power On Self Test, or POST) has been completed without errors. If any problems are detected in the components, the computer will let you know about it using a specified number of short or long beeps. Correctly decoding the signal, you can find out exactly what kind of failure occurred in your PC.

BIOS beeps

As a rule, any working computer emits a short beep before starting to boot - this nuance common to all types of motherboards and BIOS configurations. In some cases, it happens that the sound signal is not heard at all - this means that the manufacturer of your device decided to save a little money and did not equip the PC with a system speaker. For a working computer this is not so much big problem, but in the event of a serious malfunction, you will not be able to understand the essence of the problem and fix it without the intervention of specialists.

If problems are detected in the operation of the hardware, BIOS starts making certain sounds, designed to tell the user exactly where the problem lies. The sequence of these signals varies, and in order to correctly decipher them, you need to know the BIOS manufacturer of your specific motherboard. Of course, the easiest way is to get the instructions for the motherboard, but what to do if for some reason it was not saved?

How to find out the BIOS manufacturer

There are several ways that are installed in the system:

Decoding BIOS signals

Once you have found out the manufacturer of your BIOS, you can proceed directly to deciphering the sound signals.

AMI

AWARD

Phoenix