Simple move killed computer

[Connie Durst]

I have a Pentium 166 which I was setting up for a new user. I had it all set up and it was working perfectly when I shut it down and carried it to his space. And now it no longer works. Our entire office is going to be moving in a few weeks and this scares me. In this case it starts to start up but then gets a keyboard error or keyboard not present message. Different keyboards did not help. Now, his former keyboard has a ps/2 connector with and adapter for a standard keyboard plug. I was trying to use that keyboard when this problem started. Changing back to the keyboard I was originally using didn't work. I have now opened the computer and see that it actually has a ps2 socket. I tried removing it since I thought the cpu was confused but then the power wouldn't even come on. I am totally confused. What could have happened here?

[CMonster]

Connie,
More than a simple move???

Please explain exactly what you mean by "I tried removing it." Did you de-solder the socket from the motherboard, hammer and chisel it? Was it a simple adapter that you unplugged? What is the story?

1. Make sure that you have all the cables inside the computer connected properly, and that you have not knocked anyting loose.

2. Have a computer savy friend look at it.

3. That done... Okay does it look like you have toasted, fried, and killed your board?

Cheer up, most of the parts can be reused. Providing you do not have some proprietary system like IBM or Compaq that require riser cards and such you will in all likelyhood be able to fix it with the instalation of a new motherboard. Estimated parts cost $50 - $100 depending on the quality you want. However, I do not recommend that you attempt this by yourself, considering what happened this last time.




[This message has been edited by CMonster (edited 02-06-99).]

[Celeron Eric]

Hi Connie,

Let's see. First, if some of these questions sound too simple, please forgive me. It's hard to tell everyone's computer knowledge by one post. Where did you see this ps2 port when you opened the case? Could it possibly be a ps2 mouse port?

Make sure that the computer is off when you plug/unplug the keyboard. If there is a standard "AT" keyboard plug (about 1/2 inch dia.) the pc will not have a ps2 keyboard port as well. It would be a mouse port. Also please forgive CMonster's patronizing comments. Most here want to help rather than to seem superior.

Double check that all connections are tight and try again. Please let us know what happens.

Regards,

Eric

[DavidX]

C Monster's comments really don't seem particularly patronising in the light of what happened. After all, 'removing'(?) a 'PS2 port' does not seem a terribly good idea unless you really know what you're doing!!
David

[CMonster]

Guess I'm in trouble again - every time I put my foot in my mouth.

Connie, Please forgive me if I come off as being rude, or arrogant, or condescending...it was never my intention to do anything but help. I was just a little confused and slightly amused at your post. I have got to admire your courage in boldly tackling the computer project head-on.

Formerly "AMD" Eric is probably right on the money when he said that the ps2 was likely a mouse port, I agree.

I hope you get the system up and running again - it is probably just a cable that you may have knocked loose while inside the case.

George