HP Pavilion start up menu options do not work

[wmcody]

Ive been attempting to install a Linux distro on my computer, which currently has no OS.

I need to update the BIOS, but when I get into the start up menu, the only option that works is ENTER - CONTINUE.

I can't view diagnostics, boot options, BIOS, etc.

I suspect there are more technical steps to take, but I've not a clue what they are.

Any advice?

[BeemerBiker]

Many HP system you only need to press ESC when booting up.  Some require F10 instead of ESC

Please edit your post and include the model and Product ID

Depending on your system, if you press a key too soon, especially F10, it is likely you will need to power down and start over.

You need to press the F10 or ESC after you see the monitor light turn on.  Depending on settings in the BIOS you may or may not get a visual request such as "Press F10 to enter setup"

[wmcody]

Hi Beemer,

Product information:

HP Pavilion All-in-One - 27-a030 (Touch)

ProductV8P08AA

I am able to hit ESC when booting up. It takes me to the start-up menu.

Once at the menu, I see the various options for F1, F9, F10 - system diagnostics, BIOS, etc. (I don't remember the exact order.)

But pushing the keys does nothing. The only one that responds is ENTER, which closes the menu and resumes booting.

The computer currently lacks an OS. I have been trying to install Linux (with no success from multiple distros). I have done this on other computers, and it's never been a problem. Of course, I could also access the true BIOS screen, not just the start-up screen.

Honestly, this computer is old, and I was just hoping to make it an extra one to play around with. If it becomes nothing but a paperweight, I won't shed any tears. Still, I'd prefer it not to come to that 🙂

[BeemerBiker · Accepted solution]

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@wmcody wrote:

I am able to hit ESC when booting up. It takes me to the start-up menu.

Once at the menu, I see the various options for F1, F9, F10 - system diagnostics, BIOS, etc. (I don't remember the exact order.)

But pushing the keys does nothing. The only one that responds is ENTER, which closes the menu and resumes booting.

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This is not good.  Did you try all keys such as F11?  See a message asking for a password?

Try a different keyboard?

Try the following "V" and "B" keys as described below

https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/ish_3932413-2337994-16

try (2) first then try (3)

If keys not working then try jumpers on motherboard to reset the CMOS

You have SAIPAN-UF  motherboard which seem to start at $150 USD on ebay

that parts depot url (above) shows two possible replacements but there is no link to buy them

the 908382 is listed at aliexpress for a reasonable price

[wmcody]

Thank you for your support. I will try out my options.