New computer start-up problems? Blank screen?

Question

I recently purchased a new Dell computer and got it this Monday. Today (Friday) I decided to set up the computer, but when I turn on the computer, after the loading bar, the screen goes black and stays like that. I called Dell Tech Support twice (and waited a LONG time) and they were of no help. For those of you who have some knowledge of computers, what do you think may be causing the problem? (Note: The monitor is fine; I tried another monitor and it didn't work either.) Please help.

Yes, I did order a graphics card with it and I am using the white digital plug (VGA). And if you're wondering how I'm typing this, I'm using my old computer now.

EDIT (3/3/07): It turned out I had a defective video card. I called Dell and I will be getting a replacement soon. Unfortunately, Dell has wasted hours of my time over stupid problem.

Answer 1

Most problems of this nature are directly related to the video drivers. Since you said Dell, I'm assuming you got the ATI X1300 video card.

Go to http://ati.amd.com/support/driver.html to download the latest drivers for your graphics card. It'll take a while. Burn the drivers to a CD.

At startup, repeatedly hit the F8 button until you get the option to boot in safe mode. Go to the Control Panel -> Add/Remove Programs and remove the ATI drivers that came with your system. Restart the system until you can get back into safe mode. It may take a few tries. Put the CD containing the drivers in your system and run the installer. It will likely crap-out on you midway through the process, but don't worry. All we wanted were the installation files.

Now, press the Start button and right-click your My Computer Icon. Select Manage. On the left pane of the new window, choose Device Manager. On the right, expand Display Adapters. You should see something like "Radeon X1300" and "Radeon X1300 Secondary". Double-click the first one and go to the Driver tab. Select Update Driver. Don't let the computer select a driver for you. You need to specify your own. When it lets you, browse to (something like)
C:
\ATI
\SUPPORT
\7-1_xp_dd_ccc_wdm_enu_40211
\Driver
\2KXP_INF
(had to do it this way to keep from getting truncated)
and select Okay. Your driver name will change. Do the same for the other Display Adapter shown.

Restart your system normally and things should be fixed.

Never download a Dell video driver again. Download them direct from ATI.

Answer 2

Did you order a special graphics card with the computer? If so, there is probably a different monitor connection and you need to use that.

If not, how long did you leave it on for?

Maybe the resolution is set incorrectly. Have you tried going into safe mode? To do this, turn on the computer and begin pressing F8. You should get a menu option which will allow the selection of Safe Mode.

Once in Safe Mode, check the display settings and lower the resolution to 800x600. Then reboot the machine. If it then boots normally, try increasing the resolution slightly, but not up to the highest.

Answer 3

So you received the "Blue Screen" of death.

Did Dell supply you with a "System Restore" Disk? If they did then try loading that onto the computer, then reboot and see if your computer finally comes on. If that doesn't work I suggest going to, or having, the "Geek Squad" from Best Buy store to fix your computer.

Good luck.

Answer 4

Your hard drive's operating system (windows) is corrupt; it happens all the time. Dell and other companies give out system restore disks. Pop your in to reinstall the factory default settings. This should reinstall your operating system. If it's under warranty, I would return it right away because it shows that your hard drive is unreliable and unstable, perhaps even scratched beyond repair.

Answer 5

you need to go into the computers CMOS and disable the onboard video. im assuming this is the problem, sounds like you're saying you have video then it cuts out. if thats whats happening then you need to disable the onboard VGA.

Answer 6

Format hdd an re install operating system

Answer 7

if you have paid for a new computer & not from flea market,
lodge a complaint & get a docket number

no tech support please ... tell them u'r computer illiterate

demand for a working system, which it is not
so ask them to collect the damn computer & demand for full refund

Answer 8

Your start could be corrupted or missing drivers.
Try reboot in SAFEMODE and if that does not work, reboot with backup CD, to reinstall OS.

Answer 9

Just return it and get a full refund.

Answer 10

if your computer doesnt work, how are you asking this question.