When turning on the PC about 75% of the time I get a noise (like fax machine) that lasts for about 8 seconds followed by two bleeps. The PC will not start up, and nothing appears on monitor. I have to remove the power lead and then try again. This will either then start up (1 in 4 chance) or the same sounds will come out and I would then try again. Should I get it going I can RESTART it as many times as I like without any problem what so ever. But if I turn it OFF then On it is a 75% chance I will get the noises.
The system is a HP BRIO BA410 with a Award Medallion BIOS. The motherboard has integrated video and sound. The problem is definetly not faulty ram as I have changed (moved) that about. I am no expert but I have a feeling it is to do with the video/graphics. If that is the case I have a AGP slot. If I decide to fit an AGP graphics card do I have to do anything to deactivate the integrated graphics. In the BIOS all I can see is two settings, which is swtchable between either PCI/AGP or AGP/PCI.
The system is operating Windows 98SE; 320 RAM; 800 Celeron; 20GB HDD, CD/RW
I would be extremely grateful for any assistance/advice please.

G'day,

Sounds like a video problem. Try this link:
www.comptechdoc.org/hardware/beepcodes/1.htm

regards,
Elric

It certainly appears to be a video problem. I have tried fitting another video card (AGP) but all I get is a blank screen. I removed the drivers for the built it video drivers but all to no avail. On a reboot it finds new hardware etc. Does anyone know have I got to disconnect the existing built in video to get the AGP card to work. If so do they know how.
Many thanks

If you are a fixit sort and careful, try reseating everything on the motherboard.