Decoding speaker signals. Bios beeps and their meanings

Compaq BIOS:

	Error Message	Description
		System is booting properly
	BIOS ROM checksum error	The contents of the BIOS ROM to not match the expected contents. If possible, reload the BIOS from the PAQ

		Check the video adapter and ensure it"s seated properly. If possible, replace the video adapter
7 beeps (1 long, 1s, 1l, 1 short, pause, 1 long, 1 short, 1 short)		The AGP video card is faulty. Reseat the card or replace it outright. This beep pertains to Compaq Deskpro systems
1 long neverending beep		Memory error. Bad RAM. Replace and test
		Reseat RAM then retest; replace RAM if failure continues

IBM Desktop BIOS:

	Error Message	Description
		System is booting properly
	Initialization error	Error code is displayed
	System board error
	Video adapter error
	EGA/VGA adapter error
	3270 keyboard adapter error
	Power supply error	Replace the power supply
	Power supply error	Replace the power supply
		Replace the power supply

IBM Thinkpad BIOS:

Beeps/Error	Description
Continuous beeping	System board failure
One beep; Unreadable, blank or flashing LCD	LCD connector problem; LCD backlight inverter failure; video adapter faulty; LCD assembly faulty; System board failure; power supply failure
One beep; Message "Unable to access boot source"	Boot device failure; system board failure
One long, two short beeps	System board failure; Video adapter problem; LCD assembly failure
One long, four short beeps	Low battery voltage
One beep every second	Low battery voltage
Two short beeps with error codes	POST error message
	System board failure

IBM Intellistation BIOS:

Beep error code:	Action / Run diagnostics on the following components:
1-1-3 CMOS read/write error	1.Run Setup 2.System Board
1-1-4 ROM BIOS check error	1.System Board
1-2-X DMA error	1.System Board
1-3-X	1.Memory Module 2.System Board
1-4-4	1. Keyboard 2.System Board
1-4-X Error detected in first 64 KB of RAM.	1.Memory Module 2.System Board
2-1-1, 2-1-2	1.Run Setup 2.System Board
2-1-X First 64 KB of RAM failed.	1.Memory Module 2.System Board
2-2-2	2.System Board
2-2-X First 64 KB of RAM failed.	1.Memory Module 2.System Board
2-3-X	1.Memory Module 2.System Board
2-4-X	1.Run Setup 2. Memory Module 3.System Board
3-1-X DMA register failed.	1.System Board
3-2-4 Keyboard controller failed.	1.System Board 2. Keyboard
3-3-4 Screen initialization failed.	1. Video Adapter (if installed) 2.System Board 3.Display
3-4-1 Screen retrace detected an error.	1. Video Adapter (if installed) 2.System Board 3.Display
3-4-2 POST is searching for video ROM.	1. Video Adapter (if installed) 2.System Board
4	1. Video Adapter (if installed) 2.System Board
All other beep code sequences.	1.System Board
One long and one short beep during POST. Base 640 KB memory error or shadow RAM error.	1.Memory Module 2.System Board
One long beep and two or three short beeps during POST.(Video error)	1. Video Adapter (if installed) 2.System Board
Three short beeps during POST.	1. See "System board memory" on page 62. 2.System Board
Continuous beep.	1.System Board
Repeating short beeps.	1. Keyboard stuck key? 2.Keyboard Cable 3.System Board

Mylex BIOS:

	Error Message	Description
		System is booting normally
	Video adapter error	The video adapter is either faulty or not seated properly. Check the adapter
	Keyboard controller error	The keyboard controller IC is faulty. Replace the IC if possible
		The keyboard controller IC is faulty or the keyboard is faulty. Replace the keyboard, if problem still persists, replace the keyboard controller IC
		The programmable interrupt controller is faulty. Replace the IC if possible
		The programmable interrupt controller is faulty. replace the IC if possible
	DMA page register error	The DMA controller IC is faulty. Replace the IC if possible
	RAM refresh error

	RAM parity error
	DMA controller 0 error	The DMA controller IC for channel 0 has failed
		The CMOS RAM has failed
	DMA controller 1 error	The DMA controller IC for channel 1 has failed
	CMOS RAM battery error	The CMOS RAM battery has failed. If possible, replace the CMOS or battery
	CMOS RAM checksum error	The CMOS RAM has failed. If possible, replace the CMOS
	BIOS ROM checksum error	The BIOS ROM has failed. If possible replace the BIOS or upgrade it

Mylex 386 BIOS:

	Error Message	Description
		System is booting normally
	Video adapter failure	Either the video adapter is faulty, not seated properly or is missing
1 long, 1 short, 1 long	Keyboard controller error	Either the keyboard controller IC is faulty or the system board circuitry is faulty
1 long, 2 short, 1 long		Either the keyboard controller is faulty or the system board circuitry is faulty
1 long, 3 short, 1 long
1 long 4 short, 1 long		The programmable interrupt controller IC is faulty
1 long, 5 short, 1 long	DMA page register error	The DMA controller IC 1 or 2 is faulty or the system board circuitry is faulty
1 long, 6 short, 1 long	RAM refresh error
1 long, 7 short, 1 long
1 long, 8 short, 1 long	RAM parity error
1 long, 9 short, 1 long	DMA controller 1 error	The DMA controller for channel 0 is faulty or the system board circuitry is faulty
1 long, 10 short, 1 long		Either the CMOS RAM is faulty. Replace the CMOS
1 long, 11 short, 1 long	DMA controller 2 error	The DMA controller for channel 1 is faulty or the system board circuitry is faulty
1 long, 12 short, 1 long	CMOS RAM battery error	The CMOS RAM battery is faulty or the CMOS RAM is bad. Replace the battery if possible
1 long, 13 short, 1 long	CMOS checksum error	The CMOS RAM is faulty
1 long 14 short, 1 long	BIOS ROM checksum failure	The BIOS ROM checksum is faulty. Replace the BIOS or upgrade

Phoenix ISA/MCA/EISA BIOS:

The beep codes are represented in the number of beeps. E.g. 1-1-2 would mean 1 beep, a pause, 1 beep, a pause, and 2 beeps.

With a Dell computer, a 1-2 beep code can also indicate that a bootable add-in card is installed but no boot device is attached. For example, in you insert a Promise Ultra-66 card but do not connect a hard drive to it, you will get the beep code. I verified this with a SIIG (crap -- avoid like the plague) Ultra-66 card, and then confirmed the results with Dell.

	Error Message	Description
	CPU test failure	The CPU is faulty. Replace the CPU
	System board select failure	The motherboard is having an undetermined fault. Replace the motherboard
	CMOS read/write error	The real time clock/CMOS is faulty. Replace the CMOS if possible
	Extended CMOS RAM failure	The extended portion of the CMOS RAM has failed. Replace the CMOS if possible
	BIOS ROM checksum error	The BIOS ROM has failed. Replace the BIOS or upgrade if possible
		The programmable interrupt timer has failed. Replace if possible

	DMA read/write failure	The DMA controller has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	RAM refresh failure	The RAM refresh controller has failed
	64KB RAM failure	The test of the first 64KB RAM has failed to start
	First 64KB RAM failure	The first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	First 64KB logic failure	The first RAM control logic has failed
	Address line failure	The address line to the first 64KB RAM has failed
	Parity RAM failure	The first RAM IC has failed. Replace if possible
	EISA fail-safe timer test	Replace the motherboard
	EISA NMI port 462 test	Replace the motherboard
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 0; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 1; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 2; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 3; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 4; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 5; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 6; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 7; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 8; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 9; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 10; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 11; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 12; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 13; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 14; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	64KB RAM failure	Bit 15; This data bit on the first RAM IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	Slave DMA register failure	The DMA controller has failed. Replace the controller if possible
	Master DMA register failure	The DMA controller had failed. Replace the controller if possible
	Master interrupt mask register failure
	Slave interrupt mask register failure	The interrupt controller IC has failed
	Interrupt vector error	The BIOS was unable to load the interrupt vectors into memory. Replace the motherboard

	Keyboard controller failure
	CMOS RAM power bad	Replace the CMOS battery or CMOS RAM if possible
	CMOS configuration error	The CMOS configuration has failed. Restore the configuration or replace the battery if possible

	Video memory failure	There is a problem with the video memory. Replace the video adapter if possible
	Video initialization failure	There is a problem with the video adapter. Reseat the adapter or replace the adapter if possible
		The system's timer IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	Shutdown failure	The CMOS has failed. Replace the CMOS IC if possible
	Gate A20 failure	The keyboard controller has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	Unexpected interrupt in protected mode	This is a CPU problem. Replace the CPU and retest
	RAM test failure	System RAM addressing circuitry is faulty. Replace the motherboard
	Interval timer channel 2 failure	The system timer IC has failed. Replace the IC if possible
	Time of day clock failure	The real time clock/CMOS has failed. Replace the CMOS if possible
	Serial port failure	A error has occurred in the serial port circuitry
	Parallel port failure	A error has occurred in the parallel port circuitry
	Math coprocessor failure	The math coprocessor has failed. If possible, replace the MPU

	Description
	Verify real mode

	Initialize system hardware
	Initialize chipset registers with initial values
	Set in POST flag
	Initialize CPU registers
	Initialize cache to initial values

	Initialize power management
	Load alternative registers with initial POST values
	Jump to UserPatch0
	Initialize timer initialization
	8254 timer initialization
	8237 DMA controller initialization
	Reset Programmable Interrupt Controller
	Test DRAM refresh
	Test 8742 Keyboard Controller
	Set ES segment register to 4GB

	Clear 512K base memory
	Test 512K base address lines
	Test 51K base memory
	Test CPU bus-clock frequency
	CMOS RAM read/write failure (this commonly indicates a problem on the ISA bus such as a card not seated)
	Reinitialize the chipset
	Shadow system BIOS ROM
	Reinitialize the cache
	Autosize the cache
	Configure advanced chipset registers
	Load alternate registers with CMOS values
	Set initial CPU speed
	Initialize interrupt vectors
	Initialize BIOS interrupts
	Check ROM copyright notice
	Initialize manager for PCI Options ROMs
	Check video configuration against CMOS
	Initialize PCI bus and devices
	initialize all video adapters in system
	Shadow video BIOS ROM
	Display copyright notice
	Display CPU type and speed

	Set key click if enabled

	Test for unexpected interrupts
	Display prompt "Press F2 to enter setup"
	Test RAM between 512K and 640K
	Test expanded memory
	Test extended memory address lines
	Jump to UserPatch1

	Configure advanced cache registers
	Enable external and CPU caches
	Initialize SMI handler
	Display external cache size
	Display shadow message
	Display non-disposable segments
	Display error messages
	Check for configuration errors
	Test real-time clock
	Check for keyboard errors
	Setup hardware interrupt vectors
	Test coprocessor if present
	Disable onboard I/O ports
	Detect and install external RS232 ports
	Detect and install external parallel ports
	Reinitialize onboard I/O ports
	Initialize BIOS Data Area
	Initialize Extended BIOS Data Area
	Initialize floppy controller
	Initialize hard disk controller
	Initialize local bus hard disk controller
	Jump to UserPatch2
	Disable A20 address line
	Clear huge ES segment register
	Search for option ROMs
	Shadow option ROMs
	Setup power management
	Enable hardware interrupts



	Scan for F2 keystroke

	Clear in-POST flag
	Check for errors
	POST done - prepare to boot operating system

	Check password (optional)
	Clear global descriptor table
	Clear parity checkers
	Check virus and backup reminders
	Try to boot with INT 19
	Interrupt handler error
	Unknown interrupt error
	Pending interrupt error
	Initialize option ROM error

	Extended Block Move
	Shutdown 10 error
	Keyboard Controller failure (most likely problem is with RAM or cache unless no video is present)
	Initialize the chipset
	Initialize refresh counter
	Check for Forced Flash

	Do a complete RAM test
	Do OEM initialization
	Initialize interrupt controller
	Read in bootstrap code
	Initialize all vectors
	Initialize the boot device
	Boot code was read OK

Quadtel BIOS:

	Error Messages	Description
		System is booting normally
		The CMOS RAM is faulty. Replace the IC if possible
		The video adapter is faulty. Reseat the video adapter or replace the adapter if possible
	Peripheral controller error	One or more of the system peripheral controllers is bad. Replace the controllers and retest

Compared to signals AMI audio Award BIOS signals are not so diverse, but in the vast majority of cases their set is quite enough to encode all possible errors motherboard. Distinctive features of Award BIOS are the extensive use of a long signal, as well as the use of such types of signals as continuous and constantly repeating beeps.

Below is a list of Award beeps and their corresponding problem situations, as well as possible ways their decisions.

No signals

This may indicate a malfunction of both the power supply and the motherboard itself. In some cases, the system speaker of the motherboard may be faulty. To correct the situation, you can try checking the contact of the power cable coming from the power supply to the motherboard.

One short

The user hears this signal most often. It means that the verification procedure BIOS hardware POST was successful and the computer can continue booting.

Two short

This message in Award BIOS is reserved for cases where the error is not serious and allows the computer to operate normally. normal mode. Detailed text message the essence of the error is displayed on the monitor screen. The user's further actions to resolve the error usually depend on the type of situation. For example, the error may be caused by a dead CMOS memory battery. In such a case, it must be replaced.

Short repeating

The signal indicates a faulty power supply or damage to the power circuits. To correct the situation, you can try checking the contacts of the wires coming from the power supply to the motherboard.

One long and one short

Message indicating a malfunction RAM or its absence altogether. If the latter option occurs, then the RAM modules must be installed, and if the memory is already present in the slots, then you can try to reinstall the RAM chips. If this does not help, then most likely the problem is a faulty memory module. Sometimes these signals can be generated when the video memory is faulty.

Long repeating

An error similar to the previous one and indicating problems with RAM. This error most often occurs when memory modules are installed incorrectly. To correct the situation, you should check whether the modules are installed correctly, and if not, then reinstall them.

One long and two short

Similar beeps indicate a video card error. Often in such a situation, the problem is simply a poorly installed graphics accelerator card in the expansion slot, although the cause may also be a malfunction of the video card chip.

Three long

This message means that the BIOS has detected a keyboard controller error. As in other cases, here you can try to check the connection between the keyboard and the system unit. In some cases, the signal disappears after restarting the computer again. If the keyboard works, but the signals still remain, then they can usually be turned off using a special BIOS option.

One long and three short

A sound message, like the previous one, indicating a keyboard error. But, unlike the previous error, in in this case the signals indicate that the error manifests itself in a slightly different situation - the BIOS detected the keyboard, but was unable to access it.

One long and nine short

The signals indicate a CMOS read-only memory error. This failure can be either random, disappearing after rebooting the PC, or it can be a consequence of a malfunction of the CMOS memory chip, as well as incorrect BIOS flashing.

Repeating signal with high and low frequencies

An error indicating a malfunction or incorrect installation of the central processor. To correct the situation, you should try to check the reliability or correct installation of the processor and its fastening in the socket.

When you turn on the computer, the self-diagnosis process must go through and if you hear one short signal, then there is nothing to worry about, the computer is working properly. But if errors are detected during the self-test and the BIOS cannot display information on the monitor, you can hear various beeps. Different versions BIOS have different options error notifications, and it’s worth mentioning right away that POST diagnostics are not a panacea, the BIOS tells us about “possible” system problems.

The BIOS version can be found out when the computer boots; the BIOS name usually appears on the screen first, or the BIOS brand can also be found out by entering it using the DEL key (F 2, F 12, F 4, depending on the version). Alternatively, you can look at the chip markings on the motherboard. Below are tables of BIOS beeps from various manufacturers.

If, after successfully booting your computer, some data turns out to be damaged, contact our specialists who perform high-quality and fast repairs.

AWARD BIOS signals:

Sounds	What is the message about?	Description
No signals	No power
Continuous signal	Power Error	The power supply is faulty.
1 short	No errors found	Test completed successfully
2 short	Minor errors found	A prompt appears on the monitor screen to enter the CMOS program and correct the settings. Check the reliability of the cables in the connectors hard drive and motherboard.
3 long	Keyboard controller error	Check the keyboard connector, reboot the computer
1 long+1 short	Problems with RAM	Check memory modules
1 long+2 short	Video adapter error	The video adapter is faulty or there is no contact in its connector. It is also possible that the monitor cable is not connected properly.
1 long + 3 short	No video card or video memory error	No video card or video memory error.
1 long + 3 short	Keyboard initialization error	Check the quality of the connection between the latter and the connector on the motherboard.
Continuous	Memory error	Non-contact or faulty memory module.
1 long+9 short	error when reading data from the ROM chip	Reboot the computer or reflash the contents of the chip
1 long repeating	Memory error	Incorrect installation or error of memory modules.
1 short repeating	Problems with the power supply	The power supply is faulty.
High pitched during operation	CPU overheating	The processor fan is not working or the air is not reaching the processor.
Alternating low and high pitch	CPU	The processor is faulty or there is no contact in its connector. Overheating is also possible.

Messages AwardBIOS displayed on the monitor screen:

Error message	Description of the error
BIOS ROM checksum error - System halted	The BIOS checksum is incorrect. If this happens, try to reflash it.
CMOS battery failed	The CMOS checksum is incorrect and the computer will boot with default settings. This error may occur due to a damaged battery on the motherboard.
CPU at nnnn	Message showing processor frequency.
Display switch is set incorrectly	Some motherboards had a switch that indicated the type of screen output: black and white / color. This message is displayed if the switch position on the board does not match the settings in the BIOS. To resolve the problem, set the switch to match your video settings.
Press ESC to skip memory test	When you turn on the computer, a memory test is performed, if you want to skip it, press ESC.
Floppy disk(s) fail	Error initializing the floppy drive controller or the drive itself. Check its functionality and correct connection. If the PC does not have a disk drive, then in BIOS Setup set the corresponding item to NONE or AUTO.
HARD DISK initializing Please wait a moment	Some hard drives It takes quite a long time to initialize, please wait until this message disappears from the screen.
HARD DISK INSTALL FAILURE	Controller initialization error hard drives or the hard drive itself. Check that the controller is configured correctly. If hard drives are not connected, in BIOS Setup set the corresponding items to NONE.
Hard disk(s) diagnosis fail	In some cases, when the PC is turned on, hard drive diagnostics occur. This error message will appear if an error occurs during the test.
Keyboard error or no keyboard present	The keyboard cannot be initialized. Check that the keyboard is connected and that no button on the keyboard was pressed during the test. If you want to disable keyboard checking, but still need to display other error messages, in BIOS Setup, in the HALT ON item, select the ALL, BUT KEYBOARD option.
Keyboard is locked out — Unlock the key	The report states that the keypad lock was locked during testing of the keyboard. To continue working, you must open the lock with the key.
	A message notifying you that at the moment is happening full testing memory.
Memory test fail	This message will be displayed if an error was detected during memory testing. After this message will be displayed additional information about the detected error.
Override enabled — Defaults loaded	If the system cannot boot using the CMOS settings, the BIOS will overwrite them with the default boot settings.
Press TAB to show POST screen	Some OEM systems replace the standard Award BIOS screen with their own; press TAB to disable it.
Primary master hard disk fail	During the test, a primary master hard drive error was detected.
Primary slave hard disk fail	During the test, an error was detected in the primary slave hard drive.
Resuming from disk, Press TAB to show POST screen	As a rule, laptop owners can see this message. It prompts you to press the TAB key if you want to load settings from a floppy disk. Pressing TAB will provide additional instructions.
Secondary master hard disk fail	During the test, a secondary master hard drive error was detected.
Secondary slave hard disk fail	During the test, a secondary slave hard drive error was detected.

AMI BIOS signals

Sounds	What is the message about?	Description
1 long	No errors found	All checks went well
1 short	Memory regeneration error	The programmable interrupt timer or programmable interrupt controller may be faulty
2 short	Memory parity error	Memory parity error in the first 64K. The memory chip may be faulty. Reboot your computer. Check the installation of memory modules.
2 short	POST procedure error	One of the equipment checks failed
3 short	Error in the first 64K of memory	Memory error in the first 64K of main memory. The memory chip may be faulty. Reboot your computer. Check the installation of memory modules.
4 short	System Timer Error	Malfunction of the system timer or the first memory bank
5 short	CPU error	Processor failure
6 short	Control line error A20	There is a malfunction in the keyboard controller chip, which prevents the processor from switching to protected mode. Replace the keyboard controller
7 short	Processor virtual mode error	There is a problem with the processor or system board.
8 short	Error reading/writing video memory
9 short		The BIOS ROM chip may be faulty and needs to be replaced or flashed
10 short	Error reading/writing power management register in non-volatile memory	Malfunction of power control circuits. Cannot write to CMOS memory.
11 short	Cache error	The L2 cache is faulty. . External cache memory (installed in slots on the motherboard) is faulty
1 long, 2 short	Video system error	An error has been detected in the video BIOS ROM or a horizontal scan retard error has occurred.
1 long, 3 short	Error when checking video memory	Error detected in memory above 64K
1 long, 8 short	Error when checking the display adapter	The video adapter is missing or faulty
No signals	Nutrition mistakes	The power supply is faulty or not connected to the motherboard.

AST BIOS signals:

Sounds	What is the message about?	Description
1 short	Error when checking processor registers	Processor failure
2 short	Keyboard controller buffer error	Keyboard controller malfunction
3 short	Keyboard controller reset error	Problem with keyboard controller or system board
4 short	Keyboard communication error	If replacing the keyboard does not help, replace the keyboard controller chip
5 short	Keyboard error	Replace the keyboard controller chip
6 short	System board error	Replace the system board
9 short	Mismatch checksum BIOS ROM	The BIOS ROM chip is faulty and needs to be replaced.
10 short	System Timer Error	System timer chip is faulty
11 short	Chipset error	Replace the system board
12 short	Power management register error in non-volatile memory	Replace the NVRAM chip or system board
1 long	DMA controller error 0	The channel 0 DMA controller chip is faulty. Replace it if possible.
1 long, 1 short	DMA controller error 1	The channel 1 DMA controller chip is faulty. Replace it if possible.
1 long, 2 short	Vertical retrace damping error	The video adapter may be faulty. Replace it.
1 long, 3 short	Video memory error	The memory of the video adapter is faulty. Replace it.
1 long, 4 short	Video adapter error	The video adapter is faulty. Replace it.
1 long, 5 short	Memory error 64K	If possible, replace the base memory chip
1 long, 6 short	Failed to load interrupt vectors	BIOS could not load interrupt vectors into memory
1 long, 7 short	Failed to initialize video hardware
1 long, 8 short	Video memory error	First replace the video adapter. If that doesn't help, replace the system board.

Phoenix BIOS Signals:

Sounds	What is the message about?
1-1-3	CMOS data write/read error
1-1-4	IC contents checksum error BIOS
1-2-1	Faulty motherboard
1-2-2	DMA controller initialization error
1-2-3	Error when trying to read/write to one of the DMA channels
1-3-1	RAM regeneration error
1-3-3
1-3-4	Error when testing the first 64 KB of RAM
1-4-1	Motherboard is faulty
1-4-2	RAM testing error
1-4-3	System Timer Error
1-4-4	Error accessing I/O port
3-1-1	Error initializing the second DMA channel
3-1-2	Error initializing the first DMA channel
3-1-4	Motherboard is faulty
3-2-4	Keyboard controller error
3-3-4	Video memory test error
4-2-1	System Timer Error
4-2-3	Line error A20. The keyboard controller is faulty
4-2-4	Error when working in protected mode. Possibly faulty CPU
4-3-1	Error when testing RAM
4-3-4	Real Time Clock Error
4-4-1	Serial port test failed. May be caused by a device using this port
4-4-2	Error while testing parallel port
4-4-3	Error when testing math coprocessor

Compaq BIOS Signals:

	Error Message	Description
		System is booting properly
	BIOS ROM checksum error	The contents of the BIOS ROM to not match the expected contents. If possible, reload the BIOS from the PAQ

		Check the video adapter and ensure it"s seated properly. If possible, replace the video adapter
7 beeps (1 long, 1s, 1l, 1 short, pause, 1 long, 1 short, 1 short)		The AGP video card is faulty. Reseat the card or replace it outright. This beep pertains to Compaq Deskpro systems
1 long neverending beep		Memory error. Bad RAM. Replace and test
		Reseat RAM then retest; replace RAM if failure continues

IBM Desktop BIOS signals:

	Error Message	Description
		System is booting properly
	Initialization error	Error code is displayed
	System board error
	Video adapter error
	EGA/VGA adapter error
	3270 keyboard adapter error
	Power supply error	Replace the power supply
	Power supply error	Replace the power supply
		Replace the power supply

IBM Thinkpad BIOS signals:

Beeps/Error	Description
Continuous beeping	System board failure
One beep; Unreadable, blank or flashing LCD	LCD connector problem; LCD backlight inverter failure; video adapter faulty; LCD assembly faulty; System board failure; power supply failure
One beep; Message "Unable to access boot source"	Boot device failure; system board failure
One long, two short beeps	System board failure; Video adapter problem; LCD assembly failure
One long, four short beeps	Low battery voltage
One beep every second	Low battery voltage
Two short beeps with error codes	POST error message
	System board failure

Mylex BIOS Signals:

	Error Message	Description
		System is booting normally
	Video adapter error	The video adapter is either faulty or not seated properly. Check the adapter
	Keyboard controller error	The keyboard controller IC is faulty. Replace the IC if possible
		The keyboard controller IC is faulty or the keyboard is faulty. Replace the keyboard, if problem still persists, replace the keyboard controller IC
		The programmable interrupt controller is faulty. Replace the IC if possible
		The programmable interrupt controller is faulty. replace the IC if possible
	DMA page register error	The DMA controller IC is faulty. Replace the IC if possible
	RAM refresh error

	RAM parity error
	DMA controller 0 error	The DMA controller IC for channel 0 has failed
		The CMOS RAM has failed
	DMA controller 1 error	The DMA controller IC for channel 1 has failed
	CMOS RAM battery error	The CMOS RAM battery has failed. If possible, replace the CMOS or battery
	CMOS RAM checksum error	The CMOS RAM has failed. If possible, replace the CMOS
	BIOS ROM checksum error	The BIOS ROM has failed. If possible replace the BIOS or upgrade it

Mylex 386 BIOS Signals:

	Error Message	Description
		System is booting normally
	Video adapter failure	Either the video adapter is faulty, not seated properly or is missing
1 long, 1 short, 1 long	Keyboard controller error	Either the keyboard controller IC is faulty or the system board circuitry is faulty
1 long, 2 short, 1 long		Either the keyboard controller is faulty or the system board circuitry is faulty
1 long, 3 short, 1 long
1 long 4 short, 1 long		The programmable interrupt controller IC is faulty
1 long, 5 short, 1 long	DMA page register error	The DMA controller IC 1 or 2 is faulty or the system board circuitry is faulty
1 long, 6 short, 1 long	RAM refresh error
1 long, 7 short, 1 long
1 long, 8 short, 1 long	RAM parity error
1 long, 9 short, 1 long	DMA controller 1 error	The DMA controller for channel 0 is faulty or the system board circuitry is faulty
1 long, 10 short, 1 long		Either the CMOS RAM is faulty. Replace the CMOS
1 long, 11 short, 1 long	DMA controller 2 error	The DMA controller for channel 1 is faulty or the system board circuitry is faulty
1 long, 12 short, 1 long	CMOS RAM battery error	The CMOS RAM battery is faulty or the CMOS RAM is bad. Replace the battery if possible
1 long, 13 short, 1 long	CMOS checksum error	The CMOS RAM is faulty
1 long 14 short, 1 long	BIOS ROM checksum failure	The BIOS ROM checksum is faulty. Replace the BIOS or upgrade

Signals Quadtel BIOS:

	Error Messages	Description
		System is booting normally
		The CMOS RAM is faulty. Replace the IC if possible
		The video adapter is faulty. Reseat the video adapter or replace the adapter if possible
	Peripheral controller error	One or more of the system peripheral controllers is bad. Replace the controllers and retest

Below are the beep values for some motherboards.

Award BIOS

— No signals — The power supply is faulty or not connected to the motherboard.

— Continuous signal — The power supply is faulty. Needs replacement.

— 1 short signal — No errors detected. Typical behavior of a working computer - the computer boots normally.

— 2 short beeps — Minor errors detected. A prompt appears on the monitor screen to enter the CMOS program. Setup Utility to correct the situation. Check that the cables are securely fastened in the hard drive and motherboard connectors.

— 3 long beeps — Keyboard controller error. Restart your computer. The motherboard may need to be replaced.

— 1 long + 1 short beeps — RAM problems detected. Check that the memory modules are installed correctly. Or replace with other memory modules.

1 long + 2 short beeps - Problem with the video card - the most common malfunction. It is recommended to remove the board and reinsert it. Also check the connection to the monitor's video card.

1 long + 3 short beeps - Keyboard initialization error. Check the connection between the keyboard and the connector on the motherboard.

1 long + 9 short signals - Error when reading data from the permanent memory chip. Reboot the computer or reflash the contents of the chip (if this mode is supported).

1 long repeating beep - Incorrect installation of memory modules. Try pulling them out and putting them in again.

1 short repeating signal - Problems with the power supply. Try to remove any dust that has accumulated in it.

AMI BIOS

No signals - The power supply is faulty or not connected to the motherboard.

1 short beep - No errors detected. The computer is ready to use.

2 short beeps - RAM parity error. Restart your computer. Check the installation of memory modules. Memory modules may need to be replaced.

3 short beeps - Error during operation of the main memory (first 64 KB). Restart your computer. Check the installation of memory modules in the slots. Memory modules may need to be replaced.

4 short beeps - The system timer is faulty. The motherboard may need to be replaced.

5 short beeps - The central processor is faulty. The processor may need to be replaced.

6 short beeps - The keyboard controller is faulty. Check the quality of the connection between the latter and the connector on the motherboard. Try replacing the keyboard. If this does not help, then the motherboard may need to be replaced.

7 short beeps - The motherboard is faulty.

8 short beeps - Problems with the video card.

9 short beeps - Content checksum error BIOS chips. A corresponding message may appear on the monitor screen. It requires either replacing the chip or rewriting its contents (if it is Flash memory).

10 short - Unable to write to CMOS memory. The CMOS chip or motherboard needs to be replaced.

11 short beeps - The external cache memory is faulty. Replacement of cache memory modules is required.

1 long + 2 short beeps - The video card is faulty. Check the connection between the monitor and the connector on the video card. The video card may need to be replaced.

1 long + 3 short beeps - The video card is faulty. Check the connection between the monitor and the connector on the video card. The video card may need to be replaced.

1 long + 8 short beeps - Problems with the video card, or the monitor is not connected. Check the installation of the video card in the expansion slot again.

Phoenix BIOS

Phonenix BIOS manufacturers have developed their own interleaving signal system.

1-1-3 — Error in writing/reading CMOS data. The CMOS memory chip or motherboard needs to be replaced. It is also possible that the battery powering the CMOS memory chip has run out.

1-1-4 — Checksum error on the contents of the BIOS chip. The BIOS chip needs to be replaced or flashed (if using Flash memory).

1-2-1 - The motherboard is faulty. Turn off your computer for a while. If that doesn't help, replace the motherboard.

1-2-2 — DMA controller initialization error. The motherboard may need to be replaced.

1-2-3 — Error when trying to read/write to one of the DMA channels. The motherboard may need to be replaced.

1-3-1 - Problem with RAM. Replace memory modules.

— 1-3-3 — Error when testing the first 64 KB of RAM. Replace memory modules.

— 1-3-4 — Error when testing the first 64 KB of RAM. Replace memory modules.

— 1-4-1 — The motherboard is faulty. It may need to be replaced.

— 1-4-2 — Problem with RAM. Check the installation of memory modules in the slots.

— 1-4-3 — System timer error. The motherboard may need to be replaced.

— 1-4-4 — Error accessing the I/O port. This error may be caused by peripheral device, using this port for their work.

— 3-1-1 — Error initializing the second DMA channel. The motherboard may need to be replaced.

— 3-1-2 — Error initializing the first DMA channel. The motherboard may need to be replaced.

— 3-1-4 — The motherboard is faulty. Turn off your computer for a while. If this does not help, you will have to replace the motherboard.

— 3-2-4 — Keyboard controller error. The motherboard may need to be replaced.

— 3-3-4 — Error when testing video memory. The video card itself may be faulty. Check the installation of the video card in the expansion slot.

— 4-2-1 — System timer error. The motherboard may need to be replaced.

— 4-2-3 — Error when operating line A20. The keyboard controller is faulty. Try replacing the motherboard or keyboard controller.

— 4-2-4 — Error when working in protected mode. The CPU may be faulty.

— 4-3-1 — Error when testing RAM. Check the installation of modules in the slots. Memory modules may need to be replaced.

— 4-3-4 — Real time clock error. The motherboard may need to be replaced.

— 4-4-1 — Serial port testing error. May be caused by a device using serial port for your work.

— 4-4-2 — Parallel port testing error. May be caused by a device using parallel port for your work.

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 kinds of 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.

Short signal, which 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 beeps: 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 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.

Repeating sound signal, sometimes at high and sometimes at 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.