When your system has a problem that will not let it start up properly, the first thing you will hear is warning beeps. These could be because of hardware or even because of the BIOS itself.
Unfortunately, beep codes are not standardized across BIOS vendors and motherboard manufacturers. Below are mentioned the beep codes, along with the possible problem that could be causing the beep, and some suggestions towards resolution. These are for two popular BIOS vendors-AMI and Award. If your BIOS is from any other vendor, you will need to refer to the motherboard manufacturer's or the BIOS vendor's manual for details.
Also, motherboard manufacturers may modify the beep codes to their convenience and not maintain consistency. Keep an open mind when you decipher the beep, and do not get into a tizzy if the codes do not match what is in here or in the BIOS vendor's manual! You should always try and contact the manufacturer to get the correct beep codes.
One beep: RAM failure
Problem: Mother board problem or failed RAM
Solution: Troubleshoot motherboard and / or the RAM
Two Beeps: Parity circuit failure
Problem: Mother board problem or failed RAM
Solution: Troubleshoot motherboard and / or the RAM
Three Beeps: Base 64K RAM failure
Problem: There is failure with in the first 64k memory
Solution: Troubleshoot motherboard and / or the RAM
Four Beeps: System Timer failure
Problem: One or more of the system timers on the motherboard has failed; usually indicates motherboard failure
Solution: Troubleshoot motherboard. You may need to replace it.
Five Beeps: Processor failure
Problem: The processor is generating an error condition. This does not mean that the processor is not working-with a dead processor, the computer will not boot at all.
Solution: Check if the processor is overheating, and whether it is set correctly on the motherboard. Troubleshoot the motherboard.
Six Beeps: Keyboard controller or gate A20 failure
Problem: Keyboard, keyboard controller or motherboard error
Solution: Check if the key board is connected properly. Use another keyboard to see if the problem persists. If it does, look for the keyboard controller chip on the motherboard and see if it is seated properly and that it is not damaged. If the problem continues troubleshoot the motherboard.
Seven Beeps: Virtual mode exception error
Problem: This error is reported when testing the processor's virtual mode
Solution: Troubleshoot the motherboard / processor. Verify that jumpers are properly configured.
Eight Beeps: Display memory read / write failure
Problem: The BIOS is not able to read / write the display card's memory
Solution: Troubleshoot the motherboard and / or display card
Nine Beeps: BIOS 'ROM checksum failure
Problem: The BIOS CMOS chip is most likely defective. May also be a problem with the motherboard.
Solution: The CMOS chip can be replaced, but replacing the motherboard is simpler and more cost effective
Ten Beeps: CMOS shutdown register read / write error
Problem: A motherboard component is creating an error when interacting with the CMOS
Solution: Troubleshoot the motherboard and verify that all components are properly setup and configured
11 Beeps: Cache Memory error
Problem: There is problem with 1.2 cache
Solution: Verify that 1.2 cache chip is inserted correctly. Verify that all connections inside the PC are correct. Replace the cache module if the problem persists
Continuous Beeps: Video / Memory Problem
Problem: A Problem with the RAM, display card or motherboard.
Solution: Troubleshoot the RAM first, followed by the display card and then the motherboard.
Other Beeps: heck motherboard manual
Problem: Check the mother board manual or the vendor's web site for more information. Treat it as a motherboard problem
Solution: Troubleshoot the motherboard.