no monitor xp-home

if i can get to command prompt only "in the blind" can i run sfc ? or would there be a better cmd to see if i could make it able to, use or find monitor? or load all drivers missing, that may be in machine somewhere.

 

If you have no video at boot you must check the monitor first. If the monitor isn't at fault, you need to verify whether you have integrated video or a video card installed. If integrated, you likely have a bad MOBO - if a video card is installed, swap it with a known good one. If that doesn't work, you likely have a bad MOBO. If you have a card installed AND have integrated video, pull the card and enable the integrated video in the CMOS settings.

Do the testing with ALL peripherals disconnected - no HDD, no CD-ROM, no keyboard, mouse, printer, scanner, whatever - just the computer and the monitor. Listen for any beeps being emitted by the BIOS to tell of problems.

Video at boot is derived from the MOBO, even when you have a video card installed. If you can't get anything on screen at POST, your board is dead.

Those are some first echelon items to troubleshoot your issue. Although I didn't mention it, always try a substitute power supply if you have one handy. From what I have gathered from your past posts, you may be fixing these problems for others. If you enjoy that, you should gear up with the appropriate substitution equipment in order to cut to the chase more easily. A substitute power supply, monitor, video card, sound card, etc. It's the only way to fly.

All the best.

 

xp no monitor

tried HD in diff, comp. it worked. took good card out of good comp. put it in old. din work, tries diff. monitor. that works. din work. guess that leaves the MB. was just tring to avoid what i thot it was.

 

Still leaves the Power Supply.

Check that MOBO for any bulging capacitors. Any with a convex top are suspect. Recap all if you find a single bad one.

 

xp no monitor

both cd's and floppy seem to work, fans work, lights blink. hear cd run with data cd. will give it 1 more look.
Well had 1 more look again. nmonitor sez it's ok. guess i'll get a cheap MB !