Dell Optiplex GX280

I have 2 Dell Optiplex GX 280, both having the identical problems. In that they don't boot, powers on but doesn't have any display. The cpu fan starts spinning low then gradually increases it velocity I have to turn off , afraid of damaging fan.What can be causing this as memory tested good in other systems.

TechGSC

Asked: 2011-03-04

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1 Solution

LVL 6

Lordy123Commented: 2011-03-04

That series(gx240-gx280) was notorious for bad capacitors on the motherboards and bad power supplies. I would suspect those first, there will be a line of LED lights on the back near the I/O ports, what are they displaying? Is the power LED green or orange? Is the PC emitting a beep code?

Let me know and we can narrow it down.

Regards,

Lordy123

LVL 23

edbedbCommented: 2011-03-04

The first thing to check is the power supply. Test it or try replacing it.

LVL 16

sjklein42Commented: 2011-03-04

I agree with Lordy123. It sounds like Capacitor Plague:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capacitor_plague

TechGSCAuthor Commented: 2011-03-04

Tried other PSU & capacitors look good , no swelling of indication thereof or even sign of a burnt cap

LVL 6

Lordy123Commented: 2011-03-04

Whats the status of the LEDs by the I/O ports? What about the front LED?

LVL 93

nobusCommented: 2011-03-05

try resetting the bios
how : remove AC cord - then remove bios battery for a minitue.
reconnect all and test
you can use this guide also : http://www.experts-exchange.com/articles/Hardware/Components/Motherboards/Short-overview-of-how-to-troubleshoot-bad-hardware-when-a-pc-does-not-post.htm

LVL 33

Dr. KlahnPrincipal Software EngineerCommented: 2011-03-05

I have seen this in a couple of GX280s and, judging from postings here over the past year or so, this model was apparently notorious for this specific problem. Troubleshooting with a POST 4 card produced both no, and inconsistent, results. I was never able to find a satisfactory solution, and ended up recommending that the customer replace them with a more reliable platform.