2 Troubleshooting Without Diagnostics

This chapter provides information on how to identify and correct minor problems, such as diskette drive, hard drive, optical drive, graphics, audio, memory, and software problems. If you encounter problems with the computer, refer to the tables in this chapter for probable causes and recommended solutions.

NOTE: For information on specific error messages that may appear on the screen during Power-On Self-Test (POST) at startup, refer to Appendix A, POST Error Messages on page 48.

Safety and Comfort

WARNING! Misuse of the computer or failure to establish a safe and comfortable work environment may result in discomfort or serious injury. Refer to the Safety & Comfort Guide at http://www.hp.com/ ergo for more information on choosing a workspace and creating a safe and comfortable work environment. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. For more information, refer to the Safety & Regulatory Information guide.

Before You Call for Technical Support

If you are having problems with the computer, try the appropriate solutions below to try to isolate the exact problem before calling for technical support.

Run the diagnostics utility. Refer to Chapter 1, Computer Diagnostic Features on page 1 for more information.

Run the Drive Protection System (DPS) Self-Test in Computer Setup. Refer to the Computer Setup (F10) Utility Guide for more information.

Check the Power LED on the front of the computer to see if it is flashing red. The flashing lights are error codes that will help you diagnose the problem. Refer to Appendix A, POST Error Messages on page 48 for more information.

If the screen is blank, plug the monitor into a different video port on the computer if one is available. Or, change out the monitor with a monitor that you know is functioning properly.

If you are working on a network, plug another computer with a different cable into the network connection. There may be a problem with the network plug or cable.

If you recently added new hardware, remove the hardware and see if the computer functions properly.

If you recently installed new software, uninstall the software and see if the computer functions properly.

ENWW

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HP dc5850 manual Safety and Comfort Before You Call for Technical Support

dc5850 specifications

The HP dc5850 is a desktop computer that was designed for business environments, offering a blend of performance, reliability, and efficiency. Released during the height of the mid-2000s, this system is powered by AMD processors, particularly the Athlon or Phenom series, which ensures that it can handle various computational tasks with ease.

The dc5850 features a compact chassis that adheres to the Microtower form factor. This design not only saves space but also allows for easier upgrades and maintenance. The unit typically supports a range of RAM configurations, with options for up to 8GB of DDR2 memory. This flexibility enables the user to tailor the system's performance according to their needs, whether for basic office tasks or more demanding applications.

Storage options on the HP dc5850 include a 3.5-inch HDD that can accommodate substantial data, with capacities typically ranging from 160GB to 1TB. The inclusion of a SATA interface ensures fast data transfer rates, which is essential for improving overall system performance. Moreover, the dc5850 boasts multiple USB ports, including USB 2.0 and sometimes even USB 3.0, facilitating easy connectivity with peripherals such as printers, scanners, and external drives.

Graphics capabilities on the dc5850 are generally provided by integrated solutions, although users have the option to add discrete graphics cards for enhanced performance in visual tasks. The system often comes with integrated audio, which supports basic multimedia needs without requiring additional sound cards.

In terms of connectivity, the HP dc5850 features built-in Ethernet for wired networking and may also offer options for Wi-Fi capabilities via PCI expansion slots. This makes it suitable for networked business environments, enabling seamless integration into office infrastructures.

The system is designed with energy efficiency in mind, complying with various environmental standards, thereby reducing its carbon footprint. This aspect may also lead to lower operational costs for businesses focused on sustainability.

Overall, the HP dc5850 stands out as a versatile desktop solution, catering to the essential needs of small to medium-sized businesses. With its combination of performance, expandability, and energy efficiency, it remains a noteworthy choice for users seeking reliable computing power in a compact and manageable form.