Computer freezes during startup

[radiocranium]

On startup I'm getting the spinning circle under the Omen logo then it freezes, i.e., the circle stops spinning and just sits there. If I power down and restart it does the same thing. Have gone into the diagnostics (F2 during startup) and everything passes. Sometimes I'll get the starting automatic repair message, but then this freezes too. Every once in a while, the circle doesn't stop spinning and the computer starts normally, but it will then shut down randomly during use and I end up going through the whole thing again. I can't find any pattern with respect to when it starts vs. doesn't. I know this is hard, but if anyone has any ideas on what might be causing this it would be appreciated.

[Nal_NR]

Hi @radiocranium,

Welcome to the HP Support Community. 

I'd be happy to help you! 

I understand that you are having issues with freezing.

It sounds like your OMEN 30L Desktop PC GT13-1000a is experiencing serious system instability issues, potentially related to hardware or software. Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and hopefully resolve the freezing and boot issues:

1. Perform a Full Shutdown and Reset:

• Power Off Completely:
  • Disconnect the power cable from the desktop.
  • Hold down the power button for about 15-20 seconds to discharge any residual power.
  • Reconnect the power cable and try to start the computer again.

2. Check for Overheating:

• Ensure Proper Cooling:
  • Check that all fans are working properly, and that there’s no dust buildup inside the case.
  • Ensure that the computer is placed in a well-ventilated area.
• Monitor Temperatures:
  • If you can get into the system, use software like HWMonitor or OMEN Gaming Hub to check CPU and GPU temperatures. High temperatures could be causing the shutdowns.

3. Run Hardware Diagnostics Again:

• Extended Diagnostics:
  • If the F2 diagnostics passed, try running an extended test that checks all hardware components, including memory and storage, more thoroughly. This may help identify any underlying issues.
• Memory Test:
  • Run the memory test from the diagnostic menu. Sometimes, intermittent issues with RAM can cause random shutdowns and freezing.
• Check the Hard Drive/SSD:
  • Run a specific test on the storage drive(s). Sometimes, failing storage drives can lead to freezing or issues with Windows loading.

4. Attempt a Safe Mode Boot:

• Access Safe Mode:
  • Restart your PC and repeatedly press F8 or Shift + F8 (depending on the model) to try to access Safe Mode before Windows loads.
• Use Safe Mode to Troubleshoot:
  • If the PC starts in Safe Mode, this suggests the issue might be related to software, drivers, or a recent update. From Safe Mode, you can:
    • Uninstall recent updates: If you suspect a recent Windows update caused the issue.
    • Update or Rollback Drivers: Especially GPU drivers, which can cause instability.
    • Run a System File Check: Use sfc /scannow in the Command Prompt to check for corrupted system files.

Please find the remaining steps in the next post. 

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

[Nal_NR]

Hi @radiocranium,

Please find the remaining steps below. 

5. Check BIOS Settings:

• Reset BIOS to Default:
  • Enter the BIOS by pressing F10 during startup and reset the BIOS to default settings. Sometimes incorrect settings can cause boot and stability issues.
• Update BIOS:
  • If your BIOS version is outdated, consider updating it to the latest version available on the HP Support website. This can fix bugs or compatibility issues.

6. Perform a Windows Repair:

• Automatic Repair:
  • If Automatic Repair freezes, you may need to perform a more in-depth repair.
• Use Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE):
  • Boot into WinRE by turning the PC on and off three times at the Windows logo. Then, select Advanced Options > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Repair.
• System Restore:
  • If you have a restore point, try using System Restore from the Advanced Options menu to revert your system to a point before the issues began.
• Reinstall Windows:
  • If all else fails, consider performing a clean reinstall of Windows. Ensure you have a backup of your data before proceeding. You can use a bootable USB with the Windows installation media to reinstall the OS.

7. Check for Hardware Issues:

• Remove and Reinstall Components:
  • If you’re comfortable, open the case and reseat RAM, GPU, and any other removable components to ensure they’re properly connected.
• Test with Minimal Hardware:
  • Disconnect any unnecessary peripherals or additional drives and boot the system with just the essential components. This can help isolate hardware issues.

This approach covers the common troubleshooting steps that might resolve the issue, but if the problem continues, it might be a deeper hardware issue that requires repair. 

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.