Reference number: CH000996

Computer has three short beeps as it starts

Question:

Computer has three short beeps as it starts.

Cause:

Computer RAM (memory) related issue.

Answer:

Warning: Some of the below steps recommend removing physical parts within the computer. While in the computer it is highly recommend that you be aware of ESD and its potential hazards. Information about ESD and proper grounding techniques are 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 all new memory you've added to the computer. If the computer works fine after removing the new memory you're encountering either an incompatibility or defective new memory.

• Additional information about determining the type of memory to use in a memory upgrade can be found on document CH000910.

Open computer and reseat memory

Sometimes when the computer is moved and/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 you have in the computer and then placing them back into the computer.

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 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 try removing that stick of memory and try one of the other sticks of memory.

Try another computers memory

If you have access to another computer that uses the same type of memory try using its known good memory in your computer.

If another computers memory works you know that you have bad memory. If another computers memory does not work and it is compatible with your computer unfortunately your motherboard and/or the slots on the motherboard are defective causing it to be unable to properly read the memory, which means the motherboard will have to be replaced.

Replace memory

If you've determined or believe that the memory in y our computer is bad we suggest that you replace it.

• Additional information about determining the type of memory to use in a memory upgrade can be found on document CH000910.

• Information about installing and adding new hardware including memory can be found on document CHADD.