dell dimension 5150

hey folks,

i have a dell dimension 5150 with xp (just before the forced vista change)

having issues and have no idea whats going on.

1. start up bios runs but nothing after that.
2. successfully got into bios <F12> but could not run dell diagnostic
3. according to dell documents i have solid green power lights but the 1234 diagnostic lights are not on while the computer is running.

someone said it could be the RAM but im not wanting to spend $40 on DIMM unless someone on here thinks thats what it is

 

If you're getting a POST screen at startup, I would be more inclined to say that it is a software issue. How did this problem come about? When was the last time it was working?

 

my mother had it for the last few months, im not sure what post is but the dell splash screen comes up then thats it. she did get thinkpoint on it few weeks ago but was fine after i removed it

i forgot to add which i thought i did according to her a screen came up and all she saw was something about memory then it shut down not to be viewed again

i tried to follow dells support but unsuccessful. i mean with the dell diagnostic in the bios. i can get there but wont activate.

the power light like i said was solid green which to dell is good.
the 1234 numbers flickered too much to actually say what it was cause they all unlit.

thanks for the help hope you have some ideas

 

Have you tried going into Safe Mode by tapping F8 at bootup?

 

Hi
Have you tried cleaning and re-seating your RAM, use an eraser to clean gold contacts on the RAM sticks or use an alcohol wipe, and re-seat them making sure that they are in as tight as possible.

 

I think hrlow2's suggestion of attempting to boot in safe mode is a good place to start. Try pressing F8 while it boots and if your startup menu comes up, boot in safe mode. If that works, you could try a system restore to the last time you know it worked.