Tuesday 22 September 2015

Blackscreen Error

Not posted from my own computer.

My writing computer is a Toshiba laptop, which has developed a boot error. All I can get is a black screen and a white arrow. Regular backups mean all is not lost, but I need to resolve issues so that I can get back to work.

My understanding is that this is likely to be a BIOS error. I have tried several methods for clearing it suggested on the Internet, but if any of you are computer gurus who have an idea how I can proceed, I would be happy for the advice.

8 comments:

  1. Is the BIOS in good enough shape that you can boot from a CD or USB? If so, then using a Linux boot CD (e.g., Ubuntu LiveCD) may allow you to get at your data. Another option is to remove the HDD/SSD and mount it to a different device. Sorry to hear about your troubles. Best of luck!

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  2. Ugh. In addition to Terry's suggestions, other quick options would involve popping out and reseating the hard drive, following by the battery for good measure.

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  3. Well, my son and I swapped hard drives with another laptop, so that I have a writing computer and access to my basic set up. He has a friend who does computer repair, and they may be able to reset the BIOS. If I am lucky.

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  4. "Black Screen - White Arrow"
    Sounds like a new module for you to work on now you're back online!

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  5. Was this "arrow" your mouse cursor? Because then the issue is not the bios.

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  6. Was this "arrow" your mouse cursor? Because then the issue is not the bios.

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    Replies
    1. The arrow is the mouse cursor. My Google search indicated that it was a likely cause. Changing the hard drive to another laptop allowed Windows to load. I have a friend attempting to reset the bios. We will then see if it can load a hard drive.

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    2. UPDATE: Resetting the BIOS battery did, in fact, solve the problem.

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