i need help. i have a dell dimension 8100 that i havent used for a while, due to my new macbook. just today i attempted to start it up and it made a continuous "beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep" but would not do anything, no boot, no bios, nothing. after a few minutes i just turned it off. i dont know whats going wrong and i dont know what i can do to fix it. the last time i used it, it had a lot of viruses on it and i was planning to reinstall windows anyway, but now i cant even get it to boot. somebody help me please.

Hello, and welcome to PCHF.

Please do not multiple-post, we will move this thread as accordingly if it is not in the right place.


I suspect this is a memory problem. While waiting for a member of the tech team to come online, you can try this:

Things needed – Contact Clean (Purchase from local computer hardware store) - Cotton Bud ( For cleaning contact with) - Screwdriver (pc case removal) - PC user manual

Things to do -
1 - Ensure environment is static safe by removing any unwanted plastic, bags from your workbench. Keep the computer system plugged into your AC unit but ensure that the power switch on the PC is turned off. Keeping the PC plugged in the AC will ensure that case is grounded thus reducing the possibility of damaging the module or system from ESD (Electro Static Discharge)

2 -After removing the casing cover, ground yourself by touching any of the metal surfaces on your computer casing. Doing this step discharges any static built up on your body and clothing.

3 - Visually locate the computer memory expansion slots. This is normally visible but if in doubt, refer to your operation manual instruction book.

4 – the first thing to do is to remove the memory module and perform some visual inspection to check the memory socket which sits the memory module. Make sure all the pins are straight, no cracks or broken pins must be found.
A Wet the end of a cotton swab with the solvent, the swab should be wet but not dripping
B Using a circular motion, clean the contacts on the memory module.
C Allow the contact surface to dry thoroughly.
D Replace the memory module into the socket.
E Repeat steps B through D for each module you have. Replace the PC's case and try if everything works ok.




If the above fails, please wait for a tech team member to give you better advice.