HP Compaq nc8430 Troubleshooting

Resetting the computer can resolve many issues causing a blank screen. To test the display, attach an external monitor and restart the computer. Testing with an external display is helpful if the notebook display is black but you can hear sounds; such as fans, spinning drives, or beep tones that indicate the computer is operating. Display remains black when there is corrupted graphics driver therefore the screen does not automatically display. To replace the LCD Monitor follow this guide.

If you replace or fix the graphic driver and the laptop is still experiencing a black screen with no other responsive display. While on the other hand, an image displays on the external monitor, there might be a graphics driver conflict with the notebook LCD display.

The spacebar key on your keyboard is physically stuck in the down position.

Instead of removing your entire keyboard, it is possible to simply remove the spacebar key. Insert a butter knife under the edge of your spacebar, press up in a gentle manner until the key comes off. Dip a cotton swab in alcohol and clean the bottom of the key, as well as the place it sits on the keyboard. Simply snap it back into place once you are done cleaning the key. For detailed steps on replacing the spacebar, follow this guide.

Although the spacebar is a longer key, it only receives support from a small metal rod. It can be fragile, and if it breaks, it must be reinserted back into the spacebar key, as well as the keyboard, before placing the spacebar back into the keyboard.

Blue Screen appears when computer first starts up with an error message stating error 0x7A or 0x77.

Use can of compressed air to ventilate the main body of the laptop, clearing it of all dust and debris. Then hold down the power on button for 10 seconds to reset the main disk and hard drive.

Open ram panel and use a can of compressed air to clean the interior of the laptop. Then remove the old stick of ram and replace it with a newly purchased stick. Different sizes of ram sticks are available but it is critical that the ram sticks be first replaced with the same data size sticks. If problems persists then repeat the process with the next size of ram stick . After replacing ram hold down the power button for 10 seconds to reset the hard drive. For detailed steps on replacing the RAM on the device, follow this guide.

Replacing a faulty battery with a new one.

The average battery life is 18 months. If battery is older than 18 months, try replacing the battery with a new one. To replace the battery follow this guide.

If you have tried replacing the battery and the problem continues, check for a virus on the computer. Clean up your hardware by using McAfee or any other processor to remove virus then restart the laptop.

Heat build up causes your computer to shut off

Use a can of compressed air to remove dust from all laptop vents and prevent overheating. Removing the dust increases the airflow to improve cooling and allows the fan to run quieter and effortlessly.

To decrease the likelihood of overheating problems, ensure the fans on your laptop are able to ventilate properly. Proper ventilation for the system is important for functioning laptop operation. To ensure adequate ventilation, keep the laptop upright and on a sturdy, level surface. Provide at least 15.25 centimeters (6 inches) of clearance around each vent. This will allow the fan to be less over worked and run smoothly. To replace the fan, follow this guide.