BIOS problem, or CPU/motherboard?

[mazatec]

I have a system that I built about 3 years ago. This November, it started giving me three beeps when booting (AMI BIOS); this only happened sometimes, and a reboot would usually fix the problem. I tried reseating almost everything, but the problem only happened more frequently as time passed.

I have replaced the power supply, the memory, the video card, and removed all peripherals, but I still can't find the problem. In fact, the computer won't even beep now; no POST, no video, nothing but power to fans (and peripherals when they are hooked up). In fact, the only way I can make the system boot is to reset the CMOS with the JBAT jumper.

Strangely, it boots just fine if I reset the CMOS, multiple times even. What makes me think that the problem is the BIOS is that the system won't boot when I save the BIOS settings--even if I don't change any values. The battery is at 3.3V, so I don't think that it is the problem.

Does anyone have some suggestions? I've never had a problem like this before.

[liljim]

3 beeps with AMI bios means the memory is bad but with what your describing now it sounds like the board itself is going bad. You could attempt a bios update,sometimes they work miracles, but im afraid your going to be looking at replacing the motherboard.

[mazatec]

Arrgh. Well, I'm going to replace the battery and attempt to reflash the BIOS... we'll see what happens. Thanks.

[mazatec]

I've checked everything I can check, reflashed the BIOS, reseated everything, removed everything not needed for a boot, and replaced everything that is replaceable. Looks like it *is* the motherboard after all... I was hoping to avoid this, but it looks like I will have to replace it. Thanks for the help.

[liljim]

I hate it for you but im glad you got it sorted out.