Basic Computer Troubleshooting Techniques

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Sunday, April 7, 2013 By Unknown

If the problem is resolved, chances are you have identified the faulty component. For instance an Award BIOS code for a video card issue would be one long beep followed immediately by two short beeps. For instance changing out one memory module.

As you use the process of elimination to track down the issue, check to see that the issue still exists each step of the way. Make sure that the computer is located in a cool room, there is not a build up of dust on the heat sink of the processor and all of the fans are working properly.

Random problems are very difficult to troubleshoot. Having this information will be helpful to your technician. If there is a printer, external hard drive or other peripherals attached to your computer, it is recommended that you power these devices down at the same time that you shut down the computer. 


The best solution is to have a backup in place that is completely automatic and one in which the data is stored in a separate secure location in case of fire or natural disaster. If there are any obvious hardware issues, an error code will be displayed and a beeping sound may come from the system speaker. If you are able to access local resources, you know the network interface, cable and switch is good. 

A layer of dust can cause great havoc to the cooling systems of a modern computer. For instance a memory related issue will often display a 201: Memory Error. One of the most basic troubleshooting techniques is to perform a cold restart of the system.

 Is there a specific action that you perform such as starting a program, accessing a specific function or using a peripheral that causes the issue to repeat itself? Shut down windows completely until the PC is completely turned off. dll at 0147:ffccddee. If the message is in a windows box, sometimes clicking Details can provide additional information. There is typically a switch or button to reset a power strip from a power condition. 

When you start your computer it will perform a power on self test (POST). Always be sure to have a backup solution in place to protect your important documents and file. Always take careful note of things that may have changed. If something does not fix the problem always reverse the change. Swapping out hardware components, ruling out an infrastructure component or piece of software one at a time. If the problem is predictable and repeatable it will make troubleshooting much easier. Becoming frustrated or not taking notes can extend the troubleshooting process significantly.

 For instance, if you are not able to connect to the Internet, try pinging a local computer or printer. Having patience is very important when troubleshooting computer problems. Troubleshooting is a careful process of elimination. Taking careful note of this can be invaluable in troubleshooting issues.

 The error codes and number/length of beeps will vary depending on the specific issue. Check to see if the error condition still exists. Pay close attention to user actions and usage patterns in troubleshooting issues. This component can be replaced by a qualified technician. Wait for 10 seconds or so and then power the PC back on. Make sure that the dust is removed and not simply blown deeper into the heat sink. Make sure that pings are not being blocked by a software firewall. The pattern and length of beeps will vary by BIOS manufacturer and hardware component.

 Was there a bad thunderstorm or a power outage? If your computer goes to a "blue screen" (often referred to as a BSOD or blue screen of death) be sure to write down the specific error code message such as prog. Make sure that each time you are making a hardware or software change you are only making a single change. The system BIOS is capable of identifying hardware problems and issuing the error sound. All of these things may be part of the underlying problem so take careful notes. 

When troubleshooting hardware it is important to swap out one piece of hardware at a time. If it is on a power strip, make sure any errors have been reset. Check the outlet that your computer is plugged into by plugging a different device into the same outlet. When you computer emits a series of beeps when starting up, that indicates a hardware issue. Before you click "OK" or restart your computer, be sure to write down any error messages. In most cases you will want to power up these devices again before you turn your computer back on. If it still occurs put the original component back in place and swap out another.

 If your computer restarts itself or displays a blue screen when playing a game, doing video processing or other CPU intensive tasks, you might have an issue with heat. Use compressed air to remove dust from fans and heat sinks to eliminate heat problems. The problem exists in the router, modem or on the Internet Take careful note of what programs you were running at the time.

 If your computer does not turn on you probably have an issue with your power supply. exe has caused an invalid page fault in module xw32. The most important question is what changed prior to the problem manifesting itself.

 If the outlet tests out OK and you don't hear anything spinning inside your computer when you turn it on, your power supply has probably gone bad. Did you install a new piece of hardware or software? Any issues related to memory will start with a 2 in the error code.

 When troubleshooting a network connectivity issue, it is important to try connecting to different types of resources when identifying the problem.

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