Essential PC Hardware Troubleshooting Techniques and Fixes
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Essential PC Hardware Troubleshooting Topics
POST Routine Familiarity
The Power-On Self-Test (POST) routines perform entry-level hardware troubleshooting as a PC starts. Be familiar with the abilities of the POST and its use.
Diagnosing Port Issues
When a port isn't functioning, make sure you know the steps to take to ensure that it's physically connected, enabled in BIOS, and recognized in Windows.
Troubleshooting Hard Disk Systems
Be aware of the common causes of hard-disk problems, including improper jumper configuration, BIOS Setup, and formatting/partitioning issues.
Identifying Overheating Issues
Overheating can cause spontaneous rebooting or shutdown. It's often caused by nonfunctioning cooling fans or improper airflow through the PC.
Determining Display System Problems
The most common display problems relate to power, brightness, or contrast. Adjusting the monitor controls should be your first step when troubleshooting.
Recognizing Floppy Drive Symptoms
Most floppy-drive problems result from bad media. Your first troubleshooting technique should be to try a new disk.
Troubleshooting Sound Card Issues
Sound cards demand a lot of PC resources and are notorious for being inflexible in their configuration. The most common problems involve resource conflicts (IRQ, DMA, or I/O address).
Identifying BIOS Configuration Issues
BIOS issues are related to the inability to support hardware. In most cases, a program or flash upgrade is available to update the BIOS so that components can be supported.
Recognizing Power Supply Failures
Become familiar with the symptoms of a dead, failing, or overloaded power supply.
Symptoms of Dislodged Components
Dislodged components are the most common issues you'll face. Become familiar with the symptoms and their fixes.
Mastering Basic Troubleshooting Methodology
Troubleshooting is a process of trial and error. For the exam and your career, use this system to diagnose and repair hardware-related issues.
Utilizing Service Documentation
Service manuals are your instructions for troubleshooting and service information. Almost every computer and peripheral made today has service documentation in the form of books, service CD-ROMs, and websites.
The Importance of Collaboration
If you don't know the answer, ask one of your fellow technicians. They may have run across the problem you're having and know the solution. This is one thing we feel very strongly about: Don't be embarrassed to ask, and don't be too tight-lipped to help others.