Start up problem - PGC-GRX316MP

[110defender]

Hi,

This problem started with my screen 'freezing' and the HDD becoming inactive. This would happen after 30 minutes of use then reduced in time to seconds.

Now, when I press the on/power button, the fan turns, there is activity on the CD/DVD drive and the external FDD (if atached)and less than a second of HDD activity shown on the LED. The screen does not come on at all.

I have linked my HDD to my PC and there is no problem with that at all.

Power LEDs are iluminated with either the battery or mains power.

Any ideas?

Thank you.

[rich912]

This sounds like the infamous GRX memory slot problem. Google that and you will see what I mean.
The eventual solution would seem to be a motherboard repair or replacement, but a short term solution is to pack the memory chips with thin cardboard (between the memory modules and the compartment flap).

[robpaxton]

If irt does turn out to have the slot problem then another solution is to just use one slot but populate it with a larger capacity card. The innermost slot doesn't seem to get affected by the problem. I would avoid packing the outer card as it can weaken the solder joints on the working slot.

It's a fault that should've been acknowledged and dealt with properly by Sony IMO.

[kee-lo_]

I agree Rob, I feel it's a disgrace Sony have allowed this to carry on. We should have had this sorted years ago

[110defender]

Many thanks for that information guys.

It was indeed the memory. I only have one slot used (256) so I changed slots but it still would not start. Repacing it back into the original slot with slight pressure on and it started.:smileygrin:

I'll live with it for now but it's good knowing what the problem is/was.

After doing a search on the subject, I can't believe how many owners have had the same problem.

Thanks again.

AJ

[kee-lo_]

After doing a search on the subject, I can't believe how many owners have had the same problem.

I know, and Sony pretend the problem doesn't exist

[robpaxton]

Once the slot totally dies then there are only three real solutions:

a) Have the motherboard replaced.
b) Find a good repairer who can resolder the surface mount slots.
c) Replace the notebook.

b) would be my preferred option, it's relatively inexpensive to have done and the GRX is still a pretty good spec. notebook so it's well worth the investment.

[110defender]

Whilst searching the problem I came accross a site petitioning Sony about recognising the problem. There were owners signing up to it from all over the world.

RAM is now back in position with a folded bit of paper between it and the cover and the notebook is working fine. I hope the problem doesn't deteriorate any further but thanks for the advice on what options are open to me if it does.

Cheers.

[kee-lo_]

Finding b is not always easy though Rob, but you're right, still love the GRX, it's a brilliant machine now after 3 years!

It's just really sad that this has to happen to them, and that the inverters are not amazing too.

Come on Sony, have some respect for the GRX316MP, it's one of your classics, don't forget it!

[William]

My beloved GRX-316MP was broken up and sold on Ebay (Got £140 for the screen), my girlfriends is now lying dead in a dark corner.

Both memory slots eventually died on both:smileycry:

Sony you are despicable,:smileydevil:

Don't ask me why but we both bought new Vaio's.

We must both be mad:smileysad: