Computer started crashing and now it won't even turn on...?

Question

Hi i have a HP Pavilion M7750n running windows vista. First, the computer was fine and then it started crashing slowly with the lines going accross. Then, I restarted it and then it happened every other day. I ran virus tests using AVG and Anti-Spyware programs and fixed everything i could find. Now, It crashed once more and now the screen won't even turn on. I checked the cables and everything, all was fine. I can turn on my computer and my monitor is on, but it's not doing anything. My desktop is making louder noises (fan) and I can feel the fan from the back. How do i fix this? I am not too tech savvy, so take it easy. Also, how should I reformat with Vista?

Answer 1

This sounds like a hardware problem. What you've described with the lines across the screen, it could be the system overheating (which can cause permanent damage), a bad video card, or a bad power supply.

Even with a bad power supply, some of the computer will turn on while others won't.

Try leaving the computer off for awhile and turning it on in a cool room, then try taking the video card out (if it's not onboard) and putting it back in to make sure it's seated correctly, have someone test the power levels of the power supply to make sure it's functioning OK.

Feel free to IM me if you have more questions.

Answer 2

Very common problem with custom built computers. If it's still under warranty I'd send it back to HP and have them fix it.

Answer 3

OK, it sounds like either the Power Supply or the CPU/Heatsink fan has gone bonkers.  Since you are not tech savvy, I would suggest that you take it to a shop and have them repair it for you, since all of my suggestions would lead you to open the case and fix it yourself.