Pavilion 1720 (Vista) no start

[2000Redstep]

Was online when it made a light sizzling noise, and powered down by main switch. Would not restart and appears to be dead. Tested PSU by jumping green and black and PSU powered up. Not seeing any light on motherboard, although I dont know if it has one. Tested main power switch (red and black) and had continuity when button held in. Not sure where to go from here. Any help appreciated.

[old_geekster]

2000Redstep, welcome to the forum.

It still could be the PSU. I had a similar problem.  The PSU jump started, but was still faulty.

Here is a guide to help you troubleshoot the PSU:

http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?cc=us&lc=en&cc=us&dlc=en&lc=en&docname=bph06...

Please click "Accept as Solution" if your problem is solved.

[2000Redstep]

Thank you for your reply o g. I again jumped the psu and measured all voltages. All were within spec. I then disconnected the cd, hd, and removed video card. It the powered up with all fans working and light on main switch. When I reconnected each piece it would still start up, until I plugged in the video card, then dead again. After pulling out the vid card it started again. Can I assume the card is the problem.

[old_geekster · Accepted solution]

2000Redstep, it is my pleasure.

It certainly appears to be the video card.  If the computer runs properly using the integrated video, I would replace the card.  If you do change the card, be certain to check the wattage of the PSU in the computer.  HP has their cards engineered to work with the PSU's installed.  Therefore, the same model card off of the shelf may not run properly.

I would be interested in hearing the final outcome.

Please click "Accept as Solution" if your problem is solved.

[2000Redstep]

Sorry for the slow response. The computer did function using the integrated video, and I was able to save my important files to DVD, however it was a little slow. I was receiving a warning regarding Rundll32 not functioning on startup, and sometimes had to go through safe mode to startup. 

Thanks og for your support and time !

[old_geekster]

2000Redstep, no problem.

The "Rundll32" errors are difficult to diagnose.  They are small programs that help several other programs function properly.  Therefore, it is not always possible to locate the culprit.

We are at a point where it may be necessary to do a destructive System Recovery.  This will take the computer back to the OEM configuration.  Again, doing a backup of your personal data is necessary or it will be lost.  Once this is complete, your video card may even function properly.  Who knows?

Let me know what you decide.