Windows 7 won't boot past HP icon

[nypzzlr]

Novice - HP Pavilion dv7. I know nothing else bc I can't get in. I get the HP icon, that's it. Nothing windows. Screen said press esc for windows startup. Nothing. I've done no updates. rarely use this computer, occasionally Netflix. Lots of work. What I care about are recordings to my kids and grandbabies through sound recorder. I can't even get to the screen to start in safemode. Don't remember how to get to a C: prompt. Screen once showed: start in safemode, c prompt, etc, but the cursor was rapidly scrolling on each one. Altho I hit enter for any, nothing happened. ANY help would be appreciated. Back in dos days we could do something to get a C: prompt. I don't remember how, but at least then I could probably give some specs, start in safemode. Thanks.

 

[nypzzlr]

no install disk, no key, etc.

additionally, I was never given an install disk and if I was given a key, that was two moves ag0 and YEARS ago, but as I recall, I was never given ANY disks or other info other than how to set it up. it's windows
7 home premium, OS

 

[wither 2]

After you press the "on" button, repeatedly press the F2 key. That should take you to System Diagnostics. You can then run a Start-up test as well as others. If that doesn't help, let me know.

I suggest repeatedly pressing the Esc key after you press the "on" button, if you want to get to the startup options.

 

[TechnoMage2016]

It's unlikely you're going to fix that PC yourself, no matter how many buttons you push, so why not just take it to a reliable PC repair shop and get it fixed right?


It could be something as simple as a failing CMOS battery, which can cause the hard drive to NOT boot up Windows.


As a PC tech myself, that's where I'd start first.



Cheers mate!
TM