Apple Macintosh PowerBook 190 Series User Manual

Page 92

The computer makes an unusual sound at startup.

m If you hear an unfamiliar startup sound, start up the computer with the

Disk Tools disk that came with your computer. If the computer does not
start up, or if the hard disk icon does not appear, the hard disk may need
repair. Contact an Apple-authorized service provider or call the Apple
Assistance Center. If the hard disk icon does appear, see Chapter 8,
“Diagnostic Techniques.”

m There may be a problem with the information stored in the area called

parameter RAM (PRAM). Reset the parameter RAM (also called “zapping
the PRAM”).

Resetting the PRAM erases the contents of your RAM disk, if you have
one. Resetting the PRAM also restores the default settings in most control
panels. After you reset the PRAM, be sure to check any custom settings
you made for the desktop pattern, memory, network, AppleTalk, trackpad,
power conservation, and so forth. Resetting the PRAM also resets the
power manager.

Follow these steps to reset the PRAM:

1. Locate the keys Command (x), Option, P, and R.

2. Make sure the Caps Lock key is not down.

3. Restart your Macintosh. Immediately after hearing the startup sound,

press the Command (x), Option, P, and R keys simultaneously.

If you don’t hold down the key combination within 5–10 seconds after
you restart, you may need to repeat steps 1–3.

4. Hold down the keys until you hear the startup sound. Then release

the keys.

5. If the computer shuts itself off, press the reset button to turn it back on.

6. When the computer has finished starting up, restore any custom control

panel and network settings.

m There may be a problem with a RAM expansion card. If you installed a

RAM expansion card in your computer, check Appendix C to make sure
the card is properly installed. If you purchased an expansion card from a
third-party manufacturer, contact the manufacturer for help.

See also “The Computer Makes Unusual Sounds” in the section “Other
Problems While Working” later in this chapter.

Tips and Troubleshooting