I recently got a computer back from an individual that was using it, and it worked fine when I gave it to them. Now, when I try to start it, it will start booting, display in formation about the video adapter, count the memory, display the message hit "del" to enter setup, then the message "wait...." appears and that's what you do is wait, for such a long time that I can't wait that long. It is an older 486 machine, so can anyone give me a clue to what is happening? Sure would appreciate some help. Thanks. Larry L

hi It sounds as if it is not detecting the hard drive. Check your bios settings and just make sure that the hard drive is plugged in properly. This will mean opening the computer but it might be the only alternative. Ricky

As a further to Ricky's reply, while you've got it open, try re-seating your cards. Especially the drive controller card. If this still does not work, try entering CMOS setup, and choosing the LOAD DEFAULT SETTINGS. This will load the settings that your motherboard should work with for 99.9% of the devices that can be installed in your system. From there, you can tweak it for performance.

I didn't mention that when the message to hit "del" to enter set up appears, I do that, and the message "wait......" still appears, and I wait and wait and wait. Any more suggestions? Thanks Larry L

Take out all the cards except your video card. (Contacts in the slots and card edges do get tarnished after awhile.) Re-seat this card in another slot if you can. Try a bootup and if it's successful, add one card at a time until you find a hangup.