A friend of mine passed on to me what I thought was a functional and somewhat newer than mine Dell computer. With it was a Dell monitor and keyboard and mouse (USB). Initially when I turned it on I did get the desktop screen to load with a subsequent message that I didn't get a whole lot of time to read about something being loaded on etc….spyware or something. Since then, while I can get power to the tower with the power light coming on, it doesn't seem to translate to the monitor or other aids. The keyboard or mouse isn't recognized either. Every now and then the monitor will have the power saving message come on and says "touch keyboard or mouse to activate" but neither device shows power on the keyboard and as a result the screen remains black. She did include most of the original disks ie reinstalling software etc but when putting them in the CD drive nothing happens. Just wondering if there is something simple and obvious I am missing and what can I do to get it functioning. Admittedly I think she said there was some spyware or something but I didn't expect that the warning she gave me would equal this. Thanks very much for your consideraton. Dan
Hey mate,
If a virus has done something like that, then reinstallation of your OS may be the only solution.
You were right in having the disk in when you started, however you probably haven't got the BIOS set to boot from the CD/DVD drive first.
To do this, when you PC first starts and you get chance to go into the BIOS, do so and look for the settings with which you can change the boot order.
When you find that, move the DVD/CD player to the top (might be called something like LG All-In-One DVD Drive or something like that).
Hope this works,
Redeye
What you want to do is boot into Safe Mode by tapping F8 when the computer starts, select Safe Mode with Networking and go into the hidden Administrator profile. If the problem still happens, obviously disregard this advice.
When you are at the desktop, you want to download and install all windows updates, download all updates to drivers and run an online virus scan such as ESET and TrendMicro are the ones I recommend, I'd myself do both but you may do one if if time is constrained.
Are you still working on problems with this machine?
If so, Please tell us more about the machine.
Since it is a Dell, please tell us the model name and number
For instance Dimension 4550 or Precision 8200 or Optiplex <– those types of names/numbers should be available on the front of the tower case.
Next, since the machine came to you with significant problems you may need some substitute resources.
Does the machine have PS/2 ports for Keyboard and Mouse. (round sockets on the back of the Tower, as compared to the thin flat USB ports)
Do you have a spare PS/2 Keyboard and Mouse, or another set of USB Keyboard and Mouse?
Do you have a spare Monitor?
Alternatively, can you test the existing keyboard, mouse and monitor, using another Desktop PC?
Are you able to Enter BIOS/Setup? <– usually by pressing F2 or DEL key immediately when first booting the machine
If can enter BIOS/Setup, and you are familiar with those panels, have a look to see what is being detected?
For instance the machine should be detecting a primary channel Hard Drive
In Peripherals Devices or Onboard Devices the machine should be detecting a mouse, keyboard and/or USB devices
Have a look so you can report back,…. but don't make any changes at this point.
In BIOS Setup, is the date and clock time set accurately for the present time? <– could be a simple problem of CMOS battery having gone dead, therefore lost BIOS settings that can be restored by replacing the battery for about $2.95US
Again, without making any change at this time, please note that there should be an option for "Load Defaults"
Are you able to Enter SAFE Mode? <– repeatedly tapping F8 when first booting the machine
Amongst the CD disks given to you with the machine, do you have a Dell branded Windows operating system installation media (XP, Vista, Windows7)?
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dbrnrosie, this type of situation can be frustrating, particularly if you are unable to see any reports on your Screen.
But some information gathering, as per above may get you started toward a solution.
You are not necessarily at a point requiring re-installation of the Windows operating system, but it is no stretch to consider that it may be a good route for you.
The happy news, is that since the machine is new to you, a fresh installation of Windows may give you a good start, and no loss of data since you have none to save.
It is not a good idea to be installing Windows Updates and Driver Updates, if the operating system is already infected with spyware/malware.
We don't actually know if your new-to-you machine is infected.
You are certainly free to run your onboard Antivirus and Antispyware tools if any exist, and if you can gain access.
If you get the monitor and peripherals operating to the point that you can boot into Windows and follow along on the Monitor screen, AND you wish to salvage the present installation of Windows, we can get some help from our excellent Malware Removal Team.
Keep us posted with your progress.
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