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As always, make sure the computer is turned off and unplugged when removing or installing components inside the case. These tips are in no particular order.
Basic rules:
1. Identify the problem. What is happening that
you
don’t want to happen?
2. Isolate the problem. What software or hardware
is not performing properly?
3. Implement a solution. Repair or replace problem
components. Repair corrupted software.
4. Test It! Ensure that the solution you used
corrected the problem.
Is it plugged in? Is it turned on?
Keyboard and mouse cables can work their way loose over time. It is easy to plug the speakers into the microphone port or audio in port by mistake. Check all cables and cards to make sure that everything is securely connected in its proper place. Make sure that the power cable is pushed into its socket completely both at the back of the computer and at the surge protector. Make sure the surge protector is plugged firmly in to the wall socket or that your UPS and is turned on and functioning.
Ok, so you have a problem. What to do? Try to identify all the details of the problem. Does the particular error only occur when you run one program or every program? Does it happen after the computer has been on and running for a while or only when you first turn it on? Does the problem occur only when you have certain things connected to your computer such as a docking station or external hard drive? Knowing all the details will usually help get to the core of the problem faster and should you need assistance, it will allow the technician or IT person to fix it quicker.
If that pesky light on the floppy drive stays on all the time and you are unable to access any floppy
disks, most likely the cable connected to the floppy drive is connected backwards. Open the case and check try flipping the cable around.
It makes good sense to periodically run a scan of the hard drive using the thorough option. If it detects any bad sectors on the hard drive, replace it. This can help catch the minor problems before your hard drive crashes and you lose your data.
Updates…What updates? Many of the problems encountered in Windows are covered by Windows Updates. Take the time to periodically check the Windows Update section for Critical updates that can help prevent Windows program problems and patch security flaws.
That grinding or whining noise coming from your computer case is often a sign of a fan about to fail.
Try to determine where the noise is coming from. If it is at the back of your computer case near the top, it is possible the power supply’s fan is the problem. Other possibilities are extra case fans and CPU or processor fans. These cooling fans are very important to the overall temperature control and life of your computer. Fans are usually easy to replace and not very expensive. Replace them at the first sign (or sound) of trouble.
Check the device manager for conflicts. Look for a Red
"X", Exclamation point or a Question mark. These symbols mean that something in your computer is not working right or it is disabled. Update your drivers or call someone to help identify the problem.
Did your computer stop working correctly (or not at all) after moving it? Double check all your cables. If that does not solve your problem, open the case and check to make sure that none of the internal cards or memory have come “popped out” of their respective slots.
Does your computer lock up after running for a while? Check to insure that all of the fans are spinning. Dust, dirt, hair from pets, carpet fibers and other airborne contaminants can become lodged in the fans and heats sinks – greatly reducing their effectiveness. Use clean compressed air to blow out the heat sink and fans. (Do not use a household air compressor - oil and moisture from these types of systems can damage your computer.)
If you decide to troubleshoot on your own, only make one change at a time. If a particular change has no effect on your problem, change it back. Changing several things at once can make it almost impossible to find the root of the problem. Take your time!
Remember the old saying? If all else fails, read the manual. (Or call a friendly technician!)
Check the manufacturer’s web site for downloads, patches or fixes for
known problems.
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