R50P almost boots to POST but not quite!

[Johnsinski]

Hello, I have an old R50P. When I try to turn it on it seems like it is going to boot but then it shuts back down. Sometimes it stays on long enough for me to see the first screen.

Is it junk or saveable? If it needs a new MB I'll consider it junk.

[rkawakami]

Welcome to thinkpads.com!

The usual first step in diagnosing a problem like this would be to remove all of the pieces which is designed to come out without too much trouble. This includes all of the system memory, the hard drive, the optical drive, battery, MiniPCI card, any communications daughter cards (modem, bluetooth, etc.) anything in the PCMCIA slot(s) and disconnecting all USB devices. Then using only the AC adapter, attempt to power up the system. You should at least get a "missing or defective" memory beep code. That will say that most of the power circuits are working properly. If you still have a system which powers off at this point (or fails to turn on at all), then yes, most likely you are looking at a motherboard issue (could have a dead AC adapter or a thermal problem). If the system stays on for longer than before, shut it down then start installing one piece at a time and trying a restart (tip: try the MiniPCI card first... ah, that is after you check out the memory ). Hopefully you will eventually get to the point where the system again acts up. The last piece you re-installed then should be suspect.

You should also download a copy of the Hardware Maintenance Manual, if you haven't already done so, since it's invaluable for documenting how each piece is supposed to be removed (and re-installed):

http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... MIGR-53169

[Johnsinski]

Thanks Ray,

I removed everything that I could including the memory. And I do get a memory beep when I turn it on.

When I put the memory back in it still does the same thing, shuts off before POST.

I don't have the original AC adapter for the R50P. The AC adapter I'm using is from an A31 that works, I think it has the same specs for an R50P (16v 4.5A)

Probably junk, eh?

[rkawakami]

With the memory out, does it still shut down automatically? If so, then I'm afraid that you have some sort of motherboard issue or a power supply problem. Any IBM 72 watt (16V 4.5A) power supply should work. Do you have a voltmeter that you can test out the AC adapter or another Thinkpad which works with the adapter?