By Super Tech
Having patience is very essential when troubleshooting computer issues. Becoming upset or not taking notes can extend the troubleshooting process significantly. Always take detailed notes of things that may have changed. Did you install a new piece of software? Was there a bad storm or a loss of power? All of these things may be part of the underlying issue so take detailed notes. Before you click “OK” or reboot your computer, be sure to document any fault messages. Pay close attention to what programs you were using at the time of the issue. If the error message is in a windows box, sometimes selecting details can supply more information related to the fault.
One of the most elementary troubleshooting steps is to perform a cold restart of the computer. Shut down windows completely until the computer is completely turned off. If there is an external hard drive, printer or other peripheral attached to your computer, it is recommended that you power down these peripherals at the same time that you turn off the system. In most cases you will want to turn on these devices again before you start up your computer. Wait for approximately 10 seconds and then power up the computer.
Is there a specific process that you execute such as accessing a function that causes the error to repeat itself? Taking detailed notes of this can be valuable in troubleshooting errors. As you use the process of elimination to track down the problem, make sure that it still exists each step of the way. If the error is predictable and repeatable it will make troubleshooting much easier. Erractic problems are extremely tricky to troubleshoot. Pay close attention to program utilization and activity patterns while troubleshooting . The most useful question is what changed prior to the issue manifesting itself.
Always be certain to have a file backup plan in place prior to working on your computer. It is important to have a reliable copy of your documents and files and images. The superior solution is to have a archive solution that is completely automated and one in which the data is stored off-site in a data vault to protect you from fire.
If your computer does not power on you probably have an issue with your power supply. If it is on a power strip make certain any errors have been fixed. There is typically a switch or button to correct an error related to a power failure. Check the receptacle that your system is plugged into by plugging a different device into the same receptacle. If the receptacle tests out ok and you don’t hear any noise internal to your computer when you turn it on, your power supply is likely inoperable. This component can be replaced by a qualified technician.
When you power on your system it will execute a power on self test (POST). If there are any detected hardware issues, an failure code will be displayed and a beeping sound may eminate from the computer speaker. The fault codes and number / length of beeps will differ depending on the particular issue. For example a memory related problem will occassionally display a 201 Memory Fault. Any issues affiliated with memory will begin with a 2 in the failure code. When your system plays a series of beeps when powering on, that indicates a hardware issue. The computer BIOS is capable of identifying hardware issues and issuance the fault sound and code. The pattern and number of beeps will differ by BIOS manufacturer and hardware component. For example an AWARD BIOS code for a video fault would be one extended sound followed after by two short beeps.
If your system displays a blue screen occassionally referred to as a Blue Screen of Death, it is important to take note of the specific problem code message such as calc.exe has caused an invalid page fault in xpsys32.dll at 2352:ddeeffaa. Having this information will be useful to your technician. If your system reboots itself or displays a blue screen when playing games, doing graphics processing or other CPU intensive tasks, you might have a problem with overheating. Make certain that the computer is located in a cool room with an ambient temperature of less than 74 degrees F. Check for a build up of dust on the air intake vents and other system components and be certain all of the fans are working correctly. Use compressed air to clean dust from fans and air intake vents.
When troubleshooting hardware it is critical to swap out only one piece at a time. For example switching out one memory module. Make the change and then check to see if the fault still exists. If it does, replace the original component and try swapping a different one. If the issue is resolved, chances are you have identified the faulty component. Troubleshooting is a deliberate process of elimination. Swapping out hardware components, ruling out software changes and peripherals one at a time.
Make sure that each time you are making a change, you are only making a single modification.
When troubleshooting a network connectivity failure it is important to try connecting to diverse types of resources when identifying the problem. For instance, if you are not able to connect to the Internet, try pinging a local system. Be certain that pings are not being obstructed by a software firewall. If you are able to connect to local resources, you know the network interface card, cable and network switch is good. The problem is probably with the router, modem or Internet.
We expectt that this article has provided many basic tips when it comes to basic computer troubleshooting and repair.
The creator of this article is proficient in providing computer services. With over 30 years working with systems, he has serviced thousands of systems. Now as the owner of a computer repair company the author tries to train new technicians in correct troubleshooting techniques. Now that the industry has largely moved towards online computer repair, being able to offer clear direction to the consumer remotely is critical to long term success.
computer troubleshooting
Recent Comments