Laptop won't boot or update BIOS due to memory issues?

[Breazy719]

I was having issues with the drivers on my laptop. After countless failed attempts to fix them, I decided to just start fresh and do a clean installation of Windows. Since my USB drivers were among many that stopped working, I used Windows Media to burn the installation files onto a DVD. I restarted and went into WinRE and attempted to boot from the DVD, but it failed. I then made a new Windows installation DVD, which got me farther than the first but, in the end, also failed but this time because of an outdated BIOS. Doubtfully, I downloaded the updated BIOS onto a flash drive and started the laptop while holding the Win + B keys. Now my laptop now reports that the BIOS system is missing or corrupted. A quick memory scan failed and displayed FAILURE ID - RLSM7D - 9PHCN8 - MFGJ2K - 408N03, and product ID 4QP24UA#ABA. The message also said, "Memory module 1 bottom - Slot 1- (left)." Now my laptop will not boot up and is stuck in a failed Windows installation loop. It repeatedly displays a pop-up saying the installation failed and says to click OK to restart laptop and try to install again. It just continues repeating the process. I believe the USB drive with the BIOS update is being read because it lights up and blinks when I start the laptop holding Win + B. I can't get my laptop to boot up at all now. Only able to go into UEFI settings, BIOS Updater (which isn't working due to the nonexistent or corrupt file) and F2 Diagnostic tool. Please help me figure out how to save my laptop and get back to a fresh Windows OS. I'm in over my head at this point and have expended al my resources, patience and energy trying to do this on my own. Any tips or input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks for your time, Cayden

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Breazy719 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for laying out everything so clearly—this sounds like a genuinely exhausting situation, and I’m sorry it’s taken such a toll. You’ve clearly put in a lot of effort, and I’ll do everything I can to help you recover the system.

Let’s break this down into manageable steps to address both the BIOS corruption and the memory failure, which are likely preventing the system from booting or completing the Windows installation.

Check for Hardware Issues:

• Reseat Memory Modules: Power off your laptop, remove the battery, and unplug the power adapter. Carefully remove the memory modules and then reseat them to ensure they are properly connected.
• Test Memory Modules: If possible, test each memory module individually. One module might be malfunctioning, in which case replacing it may resolve the issue.

Boot into BIOS:

• After reseating the memory, try to access the BIOS by turning on the laptop and pressing the Esc or F10 key repeatedly right after powering it on. This can help ensure that the settings are not causing issues.
• Reset BIOS Settings: Inside the BIOS settings, you can choose to reset to default settings which might fix any erroneous configurations.

Check for Diagnostic Codes or LED Indicators:

• Some HP laptops use LED codes (often found on the Caps Lock or Num Lock keys) to indicate hardware failures. Count and note any blinking lights.

Perform BIOS Update:

• If it's possible to boot into Windows with external media or via safe mode, you can try updating your BIOS. Follow these precautions for BIOS updates:
  • Ensure the laptop is connected to AC power.
  • Download the BIOS update from the HP website tailored for your specific model.
  • Follow instructions carefully to reduce risks during installation.

Check WinRE and Boot Options:

• When booting into WinRE, ensure that the boot order in BIOS prioritizes the DVD drive if you are using a DVD for installation.
• Verify that the installation media is working properly by testing it on another device..

You’ve done everything right so far, and I know it’s been draining. Let’s take it one step at a time—start with the memory module, and I’ll be here to guide you through the rest. 

Let me know what you find after reseating or replacing the RAM.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye