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Old 03-04-2008, 08:10 PM   #1 (permalink)
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Default Reparing old Dell Computer

I've been recently cleaning up and repairing an old Dell Dimension XPS P133S. I know its old; it has a Pentium 1 Processor and a HawkEye 95 graphics card (me thinks). Anyways.. ive had some problems with the computer; CDs wont be read (it says that the drive is not ready) and the screen is darkened. What are the solutions to these issues?
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Old 03-04-2008, 08:16 PM   #2 (permalink)
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Default Re: Reparing old Dell Computer

CD's not reading could be..

i) Bad drive (it is old as you say)
ii) Bad CD's
iii) Non-functioning connections inside (check them if you have not already)

You say the screen is darkened, so i presume you can make out some of it. Have you tried a different monitor, presuming the monitor you are trying you know already works fine. Otherwise it could be the cable and/or graphics card.

I'm sure there are more possibilities but it is 01:15 at the moment so that's all i can come up with.
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Old 03-04-2008, 09:38 PM   #3 (permalink)
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Default Re: Reparing old Dell Computer

Its not the CDs, ive put every CD i own into it to no avail. The Drive Opens and closes so it has power, so it cant read. Ill open the case this weekend and blow all the dust out and make sure everythings secure. :]
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Old 03-04-2008, 11:32 PM   #4 (permalink)
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Default Re: Reparing old Dell Computer

This is the solution:



Take it out back, and have fun. Sorry, couldn't resist. I hate Dells.

Anyway, the drive is probably bad. You have any other optical drives you can throw into it for the time being?
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Old 03-04-2008, 11:34 PM   #5 (permalink)
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Default Re: Reparing old Dell Computer

Love that flag
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Old 03-05-2008, 03:19 AM   #6 (permalink)
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Thumbs down Re: Reparing old Dell Computer

Who in their right mind would want to fix such an old pc? What a waste of time!
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Old 03-05-2008, 04:49 AM   #7 (permalink)
 
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Default Re: Reparing old Dell Computer

Make sure your jumper settings are correct/
Re-check your ribbon cable conections or replace
Try another drive in the computer
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Old 03-05-2008, 06:32 AM   #8 (permalink)
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Default Re: Reparing old Dell Computer

Quote:
Originally Posted by MetalOwns View Post
This is the solution:



Take it out back, and have fun. Sorry, couldn't resist. I hate Dells.
Dude I got XP Professional Royale running on an old Dell.
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