Powerbook G4: three small beeps and no start-up

Question

Level 4

2,527 points

Powerbook G4: three small beeps and no start-up

My son has a Powerbook G4, purchased in July of 2004.
I believe it's a 1.5GHz processor, with 512 RAM, running (I think) Tiger.
It was working fine, but yesterday he went to start it up and all he gets are three small, but distinct, beeps, followed by silence and a black screen. The small white power indicator in the screen latch button then blinks four times, holds solid (white) for a few seconds, blinks four more times, etc.
I've tried a PRAM reset. No go.
Anyone know what these three beeps mean and what, if anything, we can do to get up and running.
thanks

20" intel imac /17" macbook pro/iphone 3G, Mac OS X (10.6.2)

Posted on Jul 10, 2010 3:56 PM

Reply

Answer 1

Niel

Community+ 2026

Level 10

742,775 points

Jul 10, 2010 4:01 PM in response to John61254

Remove and reinsert the computer's RAM. If that doesn't work, use different modules.

(52696)

Reply

Answer 2

Jul 10, 2010 6:11 PM in response to John61254

Anyone know what these three beeps mean

See *Power On Self-Test Beep Definition* http://support.apple.com/kb/ht1547 The blinking LED is also described.

I believe that the RAM is not being recognized. Has the PB been dropped. To reseat the RAM, look at the instructions at this link. http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Browse/PowerBook

 Cheers, Tom 😉

Reply

Answer 3

John61254 Author

Level 4

2,527 points

Jul 10, 2010 6:23 PM in response to Niel

Bingo!
Took out the RAM (which was the original factory install) and placed it back in the same slot.
Started up (it didn't start right up the first try, but I did a PRAM reset and then it worked).
I have a feeling he dropped or bumped the machine and may have loosened the card (though it seemed ok in the slot). Or perhaps just years of dust made for a bad connection.
At any rate, it seems to be working normally now.
Since he has only one 512 RAM card now, perhaps it would be wise to buy a second card. Then, not only will the machine run better, but if the original card shells again, the new card should (hopefully) keep him going.
Thanks a lot to both of you who responded.
I love these forums!
Have a problem, post it, and within 30 minutes, problem solved!
Have a great day!

Reply