Frozen and buzzing, no further action required.
Frozen and buzzing, no further action required.
DDR3 is now very affordable. I found 8GB dual channel kits for around $10 on eBay. Are there any machines you can borrow RAM from to test? It’s better to use parts you already own rather than buying new ones until we’re sure what’s needed. Do you have access to a motherboard speaker?
This would be the next action I'd consider if memory isn't available for testing. If it's a motherboard or BIOS issue, a CMOS reset might help. Otherwise, you're missing necessary parts for deeper troubleshooting. Do you have any RAM in another system? Could you ask a friend or family member to lend one?
Apologies for the delay. I replaced the PSU from the old PC with the newer one, which resolved the startup ramping issue. The freezing and buzzing problems were fixed by removing a faulty RAM stick. Thanks everyone for your assistance, and let's avoid arguing next time!
power sources don't suddenly fail after years; I haven't seen any old power supply blow up from age alone. I manage power units where connectors degrade naturally over time... HP's models are impressively built. It seems big companies also prefer low return rates. You got a faulty unit, changed it because bearings were wearing after three years, and you think this is typical? Follow my lead: - HP power supply from an old workstation, model HP-D2567F3P, no exact date code, but it's been around at least 18 years. It was taken down 2-3 years ago when SATA connectors broke, yet it remains my preferred bench power source because it still performs well. The original board it came with is still on the shelf, though all the capacitors are leaking. - Delta DPS460-CB in my HP XW4400 for testing vintage hardware or XP apps. It's still used occasionally, and I have a 2005 date code. I keep it because the fan still works fine. - I can't pinpoint my oldest power supply; it was swapped a few years ago to get more +12V for my lights. It powered my old W98SE PC for a long time, then became too slow for office use. Now it's still functional despite failing capacitors. - The biggest challenge is finding the very first unit. I replaced it recently because my computer now needs extra power for RGB lighting, plus several drives and storage. Its 1995 model still works, even with worn-out parts. - The date code on this one is 1995, and it's still operational. I haven't changed the fan yet. The less obvious cases: - The Corsair RM750 in my main PC is nearly nine years old; I planned a swap but kept it for my server instead. - My old server uses a Seasonic Prime Titanium 750W, running nonstop for at least five years. It lacks a date code, but it's been there longer than my purchase records. - The budget Bequiet Bronze in my media PC is probably as old as the server itself—this system is in rough shape, but the power unit isn't the main culprit. (The €50 motherboard with an embedded CPU seems most likely.) It's been running nonstop ever since. - Even the Corsair HX850 in my new server is almost three years old, and I haven't even started moving it yet—this is tough. For your situation: those compact pro models were built to endure a decade or more. If you buy quality gear, the PSU should last well beyond what most users expect. You're just as likely to face a bad PSU failure as you are to have a brand-new one blow up after three years. And in this scenario, the 'limited lifespan' parts on a PSU do exist on a motherboard too—should we consider replacing boards every few years? ----- BUT... to circle back: the Compax 6200 PRO SFF from HP is another example. Its PSU fan plays a role in cooling the board, so it gradually increases power delivery until the board signals it's time to change. The behavior I observe matches what these units are designed to do when they're struggling. Now, what might be causing it? My guess leans toward motherboard or RAM issues, unless the GT730 caused a strange malfunction. Try booting without the GPU—if it fails, it's time for a thorough rebuild. Now... a stretch, but I've had a system crash once due to a loose connector affecting power rails. Or maybe it's simply the end of its prime. Whatever the reason, replacing it now could save you from a disaster.