Computer Beep Codes: What do They Mean?

Have you ever noticed that when a computer is turned on there is a single quick beep before you see the screen load?  There is a reason for this other than knowing the computer is on.  It is to let you know that all the functions of the Power On Self Test passed or POST.  In the BIOS of the computer’s motherboard there are many different things that need to be recognized before the computer will will function as a whole such as the CPU, Hard Drive, Video Card, and more.  When a computer sounds off more than one beep or a series of long and short beeps, then that means there is something wrong with the hardware.  Below is a generic general translation of the beep codes.

No Beep:

•  There is likely a short circuit, no power, or possibly loose cards/peripherals.

One Beep:

•  All is well, nothing to worry about.

Two Beeps:

•  There is an error in the BIOS/CMOS.  This will depend on the error message on screen, as to what it is yelling at you for.

One Long Beep and One Short Beep:

•  There is a problem on the motherboard.  This can be related to blown or failing capacitors.

Two Short (Sometimes three Short):

•  Video Card:  If you card is on-board, you may need to replace the motherboard unless there is a slot for a card to be installed.  If you have a video card, try re-seating the card or cleaning out any dust around the slot before re-seating.  Otherwise, it just likely you have a failed/broken video card.

Three Long Beeps:

•  Keyboard Error:  Check for stuck keys, or altogether just replace the keyboard.

Repeated Long Beeps:

•  Memory Error:  Memory has died or is failing.  Replace with new memory.

Continuous H-Lo Beeps (Sounds Like a Siren):

•  Computer Processor Unit is over heating or heated.  Turn system off immediately.  Check thermal compound between CPU and heat-sink, apply new if needed.  Check the fan on the heat-sink to be sure it is spinning.  This can be done after the computer has cooled down for at least 30 minutes.  Briefly turn system on, and see if the fan is running and then turn it back off.

Remember, not all beeps are the same.  They can very from manufacturer to manufacturer.  Checking with your manufacturer’s motherboard manual may be a little more descriptive if the beep error code isn’t listed above.