I have an A520N HP. When I turn it on it sounds like all is working well and then the recovery screen comes up. If I click on full recovery or any other it goes through the process of recovery but then goes right back to recovery screen after it has already done that. Help.

You maybe able to get a recovery Cd from the HP WEB site.

From the manufacturer's web-site: http://support.hp.com
enter your specific model-number, and you'll be directed to the available "downloads" for your computer.

Or, purchase a set of "System Recovery CD/DVD disks" from HP, and reinstall Windows. That set of disks will install the correct drivers for your hardware.

try to run the hdd test in the bios page and see what it says. if it says no ide device found, try to reseat the hdd.

Go to crucial.com and have them analyze your computer. They will tell you you can use 2gb, no matter what HP says, and it does work. I just went through the same thing. Saved me from buying a new computer because 1gb wasn't cutting it and I originally thought that was the max for a a520n. Not true. I do suggest going to HP and getting the Bios update from 2005 if you haven't already done that. My a250n runs great with 2gb ram, replacement 500 watt power supply, GeForce 6600gt GPU, and Audigy SE sound card. With optimized paging file and routine disk cleanup this thing still runs well enough to have a few years left in the old girl untill every new program requires dual or quad core 64bit technology and Windows 7 or above.

Which light?? the network light?? Do you get anything when you press the power button if not it is most likely the power supply since the motherborad is still showing power also may be cpu!

You can get those drivers from here:
http://baixardrivers.com.br/bios-hp-pavilion-a520n-desktop-pc-bios-hp-pavilion-a525cn-desktop-pc-ap-bios-hp-pavilion-a530e/download-13266.htm

Well, in the second (Gege) case you have a bad windows. Repair using a recovery CD (one most likely came with your comp). Whyme, take it in for repair; someones been messing with your BIOS.

It defiantely sounds like a motherboard issue, however, if you still want to test the power supply, switches and everything else, check a local radio shack or look on www.newegg.com for the tools to do so. If it does come down to be the mobo that needs replaced, contact me via e-mail and I will give you more info on how to find a compatable board. [email protected]. Subject line motherboard FixYa

if it is in warranty i would suggest you to call the hp guys .... if out of waranty please post the exact error message

Are you working on battery without connecting the laptop to the mains power ? Please put the laptop on adapter power and recheck. Rajesh