Computers & Tablets

[jayemjay]

Running Vista SP1. I installed a Windows update and Windows shut down but did not restart. I switched the computer off and it started at switch on normally. I tried System Restore but the same thing happened. I then tried a manual restart and agin the system shuts down Windows, there is a blank screen and it just hangs. Cold boots work normally. Both Microsoft and Gateway insist that the BIOS needs upgrading but since the last part of the upgrade is a system restart, what will happen if the problem continues? Will the computer be rendered useless because the upgrade sequence (restart) is not completed.

[u_hsen]

is your computer still under warranty? it's not the update i think someting's wrong with your computer hardware wise.

[jayemjay]

I bought it from Bestbuy in September 2007, so I doubt it as I don't think I purchased an extended warranty.

[laney1025]

What kind of computer do you have?  Updating the BIOS is risky no matter who you are.  I literally sweat when I have to do it.  However, I have an Asus motherboard and they have great utilities to update the BIOS.  Tell me what you have for a machine and maybe I can help.

[jayemjay]

Hi,

Thanks

Gateway Desktop GM 5478. It's a quad core running Vista SP1

[laney1025]

Okay...I did a little research for you: 

http://forums.cnet.com/5208-7586_102-0.html?forumID=68&threadID=269432&messageID=2624034&tag=reldisc

http://forums.cnet.com/5208-7586_102-0.html?forumID=68&threadID=269432&messageID=2640530&tag=reldisc

Looks like this computer is having BIOS issues all over the place.  If I were you, I would log onto the Gateway forums and try to hook up with one of the moderators to walk you through the process in case something goes wrong.  Sounds like all of these guys didn't have any issues updating the BIOS but it didn't fix their problems with this machine.  Worst case scenario, you may have to replace your motherboard.  But, that is not as bad as it sounds when you would likely spend more money getting yours fixed if that's what it comes to since it is out of warranty.  You can buy a decent motherboard for $100 - $150 bucks.  You can actually spend less if you like although I am not sure if you could find one for a Quad Core Intel for less than that.  It's worth a look.  If that is the route you take, just make sure your motherboard will support the hardware, etc., on there now.  Gateway should be able to make a recommendation, in fact, if I were you, I would pressure them into providing you with a viable solution...period.  This appears to be defect oriented.  This issue is a little more than can be handled here.  Sorry. 

[jayemjay]

Thanks for spending the time to find this info. I bought a UPS yesterday so I feel more comfortable about flashing the BIOS.

There are obviously some problems with this MB. I removed an update yesterday and had the same no restart after it shutdown. The computer then would not do a cold boot this morning. I opened the box and reseated the memory and bingo!

[laney1025]

It is not an uncommon occurrence for something to need re-seating.  The same thing happened to me with a video card once.  Good troubleshooting!  Congrats!