Step 1: Perform a Power Cycle
- Shut down the laptop. If it's not responding, hold the power button for 10 seconds to force a shutdown.
- Disconnect all peripherals. Remove any external devices like USB drives, mice, keyboards, etc.
- Unplug the power adapter and remove the battery if it's removable.
- Press and hold the power button for about 15-30 seconds to drain residual power.
- Reconnect the power adapter (and the battery if applicable).
- Attempt to power on the laptop to see if the issue is resolved.
Step 2: Check for Display Issues
- Adjust the brightness level to ensure the screen is not merely dimmed.
- Connect an external monitor if you suspect the laptop's screen is faulty. If the external display works, the issue may be the laptop's screen.
- Look for any indicator lights on the laptop that suggest if it's powering on or if there are diagnostic codes being emitted.
Step 3: Boot in Safe Mode (for Windows)
- Restart the laptop and press the F8 key (or Shift + F8 or just F4, depending on the make) repeatedly as it boots to enter Advanced Boot Options.
- Choose 'Safe Mode' or 'Safe Mode with Networking' to start the laptop with a minimal set of drivers. If the laptop works in this mode, software or drivers may be the cause of the issue.
- Run a virus scan and check for malware if you manage to boot in Safe Mode.
Step 4: Check System Hardware
- Listen for any beeping sounds which could indicate hardware error codes.
- Re-seat the RAM and Hard Drive to ensure they have not come loose. This may involve removing a panel on the underside of the laptop.
- Check for overheating issues. If the laptop is very hot, cleaning out dust from fans and vents and replacing thermal paste on the CPU may help.
- Run a hardware diagnostic. Many laptops have a built-in diagnostic tool accessible during the boot sequence (often by pressing a function key like F2 or F12).
If you need more assistance, please contact our Service Desk