Computer has three short beeps as it starts

Updated: 11/13/2018 by Computer Hope

If you hear three short beeps when your computer is turned on, review the troubleshooting
options below for help on resolving the issue.

Caution: Some of the steps below recommend removing physical parts from inside the computer.
While in the computer, be sure you're aware of ESD and its potential hazards. Information about
ESD and proper grounding techniques is found on our ESD help page.

Remove added memory

If you've recently added or tried to add additional

memory to the computer and have started getting these beeps, remove the new memory you've
added to the computer. If the computer works fine after removing the new memory, your
memory is either incompatible or defective.

 What type of computer memory to use in a memory upgrade?

Open the computer and reseat memory

Sometimes when the computer is moved, or over time, a memory stick can become loose,
causing the computer to be unable to read the memory or get errors as it's reading it. Try fixing
this issue by opening the computer, removing each of the memory sticks, and placing them back
into the memory slots.

Reboot the computer

Try to reboot the computer two or more times. Some computers may have difficulties detecting
the memory at first. If this works, but you have to reboot the computer several times each time
you start the computer, you may still have an incompatible memory stick.

Swap memory location

If reseating the memory did not resolve the issue, try swapping the location of the memory. If
you have only one stick of memory in the computer, try moving it to another memory slot and
then boot the computer.

If you have more than one stick of memory, try removing all but one stick of memory and boot
the computer. If this does not resolve the issue, remove that stick of memory and try one of the
other sticks of memory. Repeat for each stick of memory in the computer, to check if any one of
the memory sticks is causing the problem.

Try known-working memory from a separate computer

If you have access to another computer that uses the same memory, take memory from that
computer and install in your computer as a test.

If another computer's memory works, you know that your computer has bad memory. If another
computer's memory doesn't work and it is compatible with your computer, the motherboard or its
memory slots are defective. You would need to replace the motherboard to fix the problem.

Replace memory
If the memory stick is incompatible or bad, we suggest you replace that memory stick.

 What type of computer memory to use in a memory upgrade?

 How to install computer hardware.

Additional information

 See our memory definition for further information and related links.
 Computer memory help and support.

POST troubleshooting steps

Updated: 01/24/2018 by Computer Hope

The power on self-test (POST) is a set of procedures that a computer runs through each time it is
turned on. It ensures that all of the system's hardware is working properly before trying to load
the operating system. If the computer does not pass POST, it will not boot. See our POST
definition for further information on this term and related links.
Tip: Make sure the computer turns on. If nothing happens (no lights, no sound, no fans, etc.), the
computer has a power related issue.

Caution: Some of the steps below recommend removing physical parts from inside the computer.
While working inside the computer, it is highly recommended that you be aware of electrostatic
discharge (ESD) and its potential hazards.

Remove new hardware

If any new hardware has been recently added to the computer, remove that hardware to make
sure it is not the cause of your issue. If your computer works after removing the new hardware, it
can mean a few things. Either the new hardware is not compatible with your computer, a system
setting needs to be changed, or the new hardware is defective.

Remove any disks or USB devices

Remove any disks, CDs, or DVDs that are in the

computer. If any USB devices (iPods, drives, phones, etc.) are connected, disconnect all of them
as well. Reboot the computer and see if anything changes.

Disconnect external devices

Remove everything from the back of the computer, except the power cable. Turn on the
computer and see if it beeps normally. If the computer has never beeped, keep the monitor or
display connected to see if any change occurs.
Reconnect and check power cords
If the computer is not getting enough power or the power is getting interrupted, the computer can
encounter problems. Disconnect your power cables from any power strip or UPS and connect the
computer directly to a known good wall outlet.

Identify beep code

If you are receiving a sequence of beeps, see the beep code page for a listing of different beep
codes and their explanation. You can also check your motherboard or computer documentation
for information on the beep codes. These beep codes are meant to help identify which computer
component is failing or bad. If your beep code is not listed, continue troubleshooting.

Check all fans

Make sure all fans are running on the computer. If a fan has failed (especially the heat sink fan
for the CPU), your computer could be overheating or detecting the fan failure, causing the
computer not to boot.

Check all cables

Verify that all the cables are securely connected to the computer and that there are no loose
cables by firmly pressing in each cable.

 All disk drives should have a data cable and power cable connected to them.
 Your power supply should have at least one cable going to the motherboard. Many
motherboards may also have additional cables connected to them to supply power to the
fans.

Disconnect all expansion cards

If the above recommendations still have not resolved the irregular POST, disconnect the riser
board (if applicable) and each of the expansion cards. If this fixes the problem or allows the
computer to POST, connect one card at a time until you determine which card is causing the
problem.

Disconnect all drives

If you cannot diagnose the problem by the beep code (or you do not hear a beep code), power off
the computer. Then, disconnect any IDE, SATA, SCSI, or other data cables from the
motherboard. When they are disconnected, try booting the computer again.
If this resolves your irregular POST or generates error messages, reconnect each device until you
determine which device or cable is causing the issue. In some situations, it can also be a loose
cable connection that causes the issue.

Remove the RAM

If you continue to experience the same problem with all the above hardware removed, remove
the RAM from the motherboard and turn on the computer. If the computer has a different beep
code or if your computer was not beeping and is now beeping, turn off your computer and try the
below suggestions. Make sure to turn off the computer each time you are adding and removing
the memory and then turning the computer back on to see if the suggestion resolves the issue.

1. Re-insert the memory into the same slot.

2. If you have more than one stick of memory, remove all but one stick of memory and try
rotating through each stick.
3. Try one stick of memory in each slot.

If you can get the computer to boot with one or more of the sticks of memory installed, it is
likely you are dealing with some bad memory. Try to identify which stick of memory is bad and
replace it.

If you can get the memory to work in one slot but not another slot, the motherboard is likely
defective. You can either workaround the issue by running the memory in a different slot that
does work or replace the motherboard.

Power cycle the computer

In some situations, a computer may have power related issues often caused by either the power
supply or the motherboard. To help determine if this is the cause of your issue, try turning the
computer on, off, and back on as fast as possible, making sure the computer power light goes on
and off each time. In some situations, you may be able to temporarily get the computer to boot.

Warning: Try this method only as a temporary workaround or as a last resort to get any valuable
information off of the computer.

Disconnect and reconnect the CPU

For users who are more comfortable working inside their computer, one last recommendation is
to reseat the CPU by removing it and re-inserting it into the socket. You could also try applying
fresh thermal compound between the CPU and the heat sink.

Loose BIOS chip

If your motherboard has a BIOS chip, it can become loose over time due to heat expansion and
cause the computer to give an irregular POST. Gently press down on the BIOS chip to make sure
it has not become loose.

Bad motherboard, CPU, RAM, or power supply

If you have tried all of the above recommendations and continue to have the same issue, it is
likely that you have a bad motherboard, power supply, CPU, or RAM stick. The next step would
be either to replace these components or have the computer serviced. If you plan on doing the
repairs yourself, we suggest that you replace or swap in parts from another computer that is
known to work. The order in which you should replace these parts is the motherboard first, then
the RAM, the CPU, and finally, the power supply.

 Computer buying tips and help.

 Additional information about installing new hardware into the computer.

Additional information

 Additional information on the POST and how a computer works?

 See the POST definition for further information and related links.
 Computer POST and beep code help and support.

Skip to Main Content

 Help
 Tips
 Dictionary
 History
 Forums
 Contact

1. Home
2. Help
3. BIOS

Computer POST and beep codes

Updated: 05/21/2018 by Computer Hope
 The computer POST (power-on self-test) checks a
computer's internal hardware for compatibility and connection before starting the remainder of
the boot process. If the computer passes the POST, the computer may give a single beep (some
computers may beep twice) as it starts and continue to boot. However, if the computer fails the
POST, the computer will either not beep or generate a beep code that tells the user the source of
the problem.

If your computer has an irregular POST or a beep code not mentioned below, follow the POST
troubleshooting steps to determine the failing hardware component.

 AMI BIOS beep codes.

 Award BIOS beep codes.
 Dell beep codes.
 IBM BIOS beep codes.
 Macintosh startup tones.
 Phoenix BIOS beep codes.
 Motherboard help.

AMI BIOS beep codes

Below are the AMI BIOS beep codes that can occur. However, because of the wide variety of
different computer manufacturers with this BIOS, the beep codes may vary.

Beep Code Descriptions

1 short DRAM refresh failure.
2 short Parity circuit failure.
3 short Base 64 K RAM failure.
4 short System timer failure.
5 short Process failure.
6 short Keyboard controller Gate A20 error.
7 short Virtual mode exception error.
8 short Display memory Read/Write test failure.
9 short ROM BIOS checksum failure.
10 short CMOS shutdown Read/Write error.
11 short Cache memory error.
1 long, 3 short Conventional/Extended memory failure.
1 long, 8 short Display/Retrace test failed.
two-tone siren Low CPU fan speed, voltage level issue.

AWARD BIOS beep codes

Below are Award BIOS beep codes that can occur. However, because of the wide variety of
different computer manufacturers with this BIOS, the beep codes may vary.

Beep Code Description

Indicates a video error has occurred and the BIOS cannot
1 long, 2 short
initialize the video screen to display any additional information.
1 long, 3 short Video card not detected (reseat video card) or bad video card.
Beeps repeating endlessly. RAM problem.
Repeated high frequency
Overheating processor (CPU).
beeps while PC is running.
Repeated beeps alternating
Issue with the processor (CPU), possibly damaged.
high & low frequency.

If any other correctable hardware issues are found, the BIOS displays a message.

Dell beep codes

Beep Code Description
1 beep BIOS ROM corruption or failure.
2 beeps Memory (RAM) not detected.
3 beeps Motherboard failure.
4 beeps Memory (RAM) failure.
5 beeps CMOS battery failure.
6 beeps Video card failure.
7 beeps Bad processor (CPU).

For other Dell beep codes, please refer to Dell's beep codes and PSA diagnostics chart page.

IBM BIOS beep codes

Below are general IBM BIOS beep codes that can occur. However, because of the wide variety
of models shipping with this BIOS, the beep codes may vary.

Beep Code Description

No beeps No power, ;oose card, or short.
1 short beep Normal POST, computer is ok.
2 short beep POST error, review screen for error code.
Continuous beep No power, loose card, or short.
Repeating short beep No power, loose card, or short.
1 long and 1 short beep Motherboard issue.
1 long and 2 short beeps Video (Mono/CGA display circuitry) issue.
1 long and 3 short beeps. Video (EGA) display circuitry.
3 long beeps Keyboard or keyboard card error.
1 beep, blank or incorrect display Video display circuitry.

Macintosh startup tones

Tones Error
Error tone. (two sets of different tones) Problem with logic board or SCSI bus.
Startup tone, drive spins, no video Problem with video controller.
Powers on, no tone. Logic board problem.
High tone, four higher tones. Problem with SIMM.

Phoenix BIOS beep codes

Below are the beep codes for Phoenix BIOS Q3.07 or 4.x.

Beep Code Description and what to check

 Unconfirmed beep code. Reseat RAM chips or replace RAM chips as possible
1-1-1-1
solution.
1-1-1-3 Verify real mode.
1-1-2-1 Get CPU type.
1-1-2-3 Initialize system hardware.
1-1-3-1 Initialize chipset registers with initial POST values.
1-1-3-2 Set in POST flag.
1-1-3-3 Initialize CPU registers.
1-1-4-1 Initialize cache to initial POST values.
1-1-4-3 Initialize I/O.
1-2-1-1 Initialize power management.
1-2-1-2 Load alternate registers with initial POST values.
1-2-1-3 Jump to UserPatch0.
1-2-2-1 Initialize keyboard controller.
1-2-2-3 BIOS ROM checksum.
1-2-3-1 8254 timer initialization.
1-2-3-3 8237 DMA controller initialization.
1-2-4-1 Reset programmable interrupt controller.
1-3-1-1 Test DRAM refresh.
1-3-1-3 Test 8742 keyboard controller.
1-3-2-1 Set ES segment to register to 4 GB.
1-3-3-1 Autosize DRAM.
1-3-3-3 Clear 512 K base RAM.
1-3-4-1 Test 512 base address lines.
1-3-4-3 Test 512 K base memory
1-4-1-3 Test CPU bus clock frequency.
1-4-2-4 Reinitialize the chipset.
1-4-3-1 Shadow system BIOS ROM.
1-4-3-2 Reinitialize the cache.
1-4-3-3 Autosize cache.
1-4-4-1 Configure advanced chipset registers.
1-4-4-2 Load alternate registers with CMOS values.
2-1-1-1 Set initial CPU speed.
2-1-1-3 Initialize interrupt vectors.
2-1-2-1 Initialize BIOS interrupts.
2-1-2-3 Check ROM Copyright notice.
2-1-2-4 Initialize manager for PCI options ROMs.
2-1-3-1 Check video configuration against CMOS.
2-1-3-2 Initialize PCI bus and devices.
2-1-3-3 Initialize all video adapters in system.
2-1-4-1 Shadow video BIOS ROM.
2-1-4-3 Display Copyright notice.
2-2-1-1 Display CPU type and speed.
2-2-1-3 Test keyboard.
2-2-2-1 Set key click if enabled.
2-2-2-3 Enable keyboard.
2-2-3-1 Test for unexpected interrupts.
2-2-3-3 Display prompt Press F2 to enter SETUP.
2-2-4-1 Test RAM between 512 and 640 k.
2-3-1-1 Test expanded memory.
2-3-1-3 Test extended memory address lines.
2-3-2-1 Jump to UserPatch1.
2-3-2-3 Configure advanced cache registers.
2-3-3-1 Enable external and CPU caches.
2-3-3-3 Display external cache size.
2-3-4-1 Display shadow message.
2-3-4-3 Display non-disposable segments.
2-4-1-1 Display error messages.
2-4-1-3 Check for configuration errors.
2-4-2-1 Test real-time clock.
2-4-2-3 Check for keyboard errors.
2-4-4-1 Set up hardware interrupts vectors.
2-4-4-3 Test coprocessor if present.
3-1-1-1 Disable onboard I/O ports.
3-1-1-3 Detect and install external RS232 ports.
3-1-2-1 Detect and install external parallel ports.
3-1-2-3 Re-initialize onboard I/O ports.
3-1-3-1 Initialize BIOS data area.
3-1-3-3 Initialize extended BIOS data area.
3-1-4-1 Initialize floppy controller.
3-2-1-1 Initialize hard disk controller.
3-2-1-2 Initialize local bus hard disk controller.
3-2-1-3 Jump to UserPatch2.
3-2-2-1 Disable A20 address line.
3-2-2-3 Clear huge ES segment register.
3-2-3-1 Search for option ROMs.
3-2-3-3 Shadow option ROMs.
3-2-4-1 Set up Power Management.
3-2-4-3 Enable hardware interrupts.
3-3-1-1 Set time of day.
3-3-1-3 Check key lock.
3-3-3-1 Erase F2 prompt.
3-3-3-3 Scan for F2 key stroke.
3-3-4-1 Enter CMOS setup.
3-3-4-3 Clear in POST flag.
3-4-1-1 Check for errors
3-4-1-3 POST done, prepare to boot operating system.
3-4-2-1 One beep.
3-4-2-3 Check password (optional).
3-4-3-1 Clear global descriptor table.
3-4-4-1 Clear parity checkers.
3-4-4-3 Clear screen (optional).
3-4-4-4 Check virus and backup reminders.
4-1-1-1 Try to boot with INT 19.
4-2-1-1 Interrupt handler error.
4-2-1-3 Unknown interrupt error.
4-2-2-1 Pending interrupt error.
4-2-2-3 Initialize option ROM error.
4-2-3-1 Shutdown error.
4-2-3-3 Extended block move.
4-2-4-1 Shutdown 10 error.
4-3-1-3 Initialize the chipset.
4-3-1-4 Initialize refresh counter.
4-3-2-1 Check for forced flash.
4-3-2-2 Check HW status of ROM.
4-3-2-3 BIOS ROM is OK.
4-3-2-4 Do a complete RAM test.
4-3-3-1 Do OEM initialization.
4-3-3-2 Initialize interrupt controller.
4-3-3-3 Read in bootstrap code.
4-3-3-4 Initialize all vectors.
4-3-4-1 Boot the flash program.
4-3-4-2 Initialize the boot device.
4-3-4-3 Boot code was read OK.
two-tone
Low CPU fan speed, voltage level issue.
siren

Additional information

 Additional information on the POST and how a computer works?

 Was this page useful? Yes No


o Feedback
o E-mail
o Share
o Print


1. Recently added pages
2. What are the features of Microsoft Windows?
3. How to create, edit, and delete a post or comment on Facebook
4. How to play video files from your computer on a Chromecast
5. How to integrate Git with Dreamweaver
6. What is ImageMagick?
7. View all recent updates

1. Useful links
2. About Computer Hope
3. Site Map
4. Forum
5. Contact Us
6. How to Help
7. Top 10 pages

1. Follow us
2. Facebook
3. Twitter
4. Pinterest
5. YouTube
6. RSS

© 2019 Computer Hope

Legal Disclaimer - Privacy Statement
AddThis Sharing Sidebar
Share
Share to Facebook
Share to TwitterShare to EmailShare to PrintMore AddThis Share options
4.6K
SHARES
SHARES
Show