Loud beeps at start up. 4 short beeps followed by 3 long beeps, then black screen.

[Rocky32137]

Last night, at shut down, I was given option to download and install Windows Software update, or download and shut down, to install upon next startup.  I chose to install at next start up.  This or Ing, I started the desktop as usual, expecting the Windows update to install.  Instead, I was greeted by loud beeping from my speakers.  4 Short beeps, followed by 3 long beeps.  This series repeated about 6 times, before stopping.  The screen remained black, and the keyboard and mouse did not function, even though you could hear the fan and hard drive running. I conducted a hard shut down after 5 minutes. Waited 5 minutes and attempted to restart again.  This repeated 3 times before I contacted Microsoft.  I was advised it was a hardware issue, and told to contact HP.  After logging in to my HP account, I was directed to retrieve my product, model and serial numbers.  These numbers are found on the bottom of the All-in one CPU.  I had to disconnect the unit from the power source, and move it to a work bench.  After retrieving the numbers, I returned the unit to y desk, hooked it up, and out of curiosity, attempted to restart the unit. It did restart, but did not finish the installation of the Windows updates.  

At this point, I’m backing up ALL of my data to One Drive, fearing that a fatal crash is imminent, and will plan on shopping for a replacement.  Until then, I will NOT shut this PC down.

Question:  Ant idea what those beep sequences were trying to tell me? 
Do any of you have a suggestion for a replacement desk-top computer?  One with video camera and microphone built in for Zoom, enough speed for streaming, and storage to run MS Office Professional? And one that has about the same footprint and capabilities as my current HP Envy with a 32 inch screen?  

Thanks!

[Paul_Tikkanen]

See the link below for how to troubleshoot the error code your PC is generating:

HP Desktop PCs - Computer beeps or a light blinks during startup | HP® Support

But all the codes indicate long beeps first, then short beeps.

I would not be able to recommend a replacement PC for you.