Didim Today

When a Desktop or Laptop computer fails in some way, there is always a reason but it’s not always evident. There are various reasons for computer failure or faults and some symptoms can have different causes.   The main sources of computer ills are hardware failure, driver software corruption, Operating system corruption or bugs (sometimes caused by updates), virus/malware infection and user error.   The most important thing is to have a technique for troubleshooting. When investigating a problem, it’s counter-productive to flit from one area of investigation to another randomly.

I find that a pencil and some paper are the best starting point.   1.  Firstly, write down the problem, the related problems and the possible causes. Not doing this can lead to oversight of the obvious.   2.  List the different methods you intend to use, starting with the simplest first. You wouldn’t want to disassemble a laptop only to find you were facing a simple driver issue.   3.  Re-test the computer after each resolution is tried.

This will ensure that you know what the solution was. Also make sure you tick off each solution as they’re tested.   4.  If you’ve exhausted your list and have had no joy, review the list for any not-so-obvious solutions. This is the part where experience and instinct take over.   5.  With both hardware and software issues it is best for the system to be as light as possible during troubleshooting. This can mean running the Operating system without any unnecessary software and removing non-essential hardware if possible.

he lesser the load, the fewer places you have to look for problems.   When something goes wrong or stops functioning, the first place to look should be the latest changes made to the system. The last change before the system malfunctioned is often the culprit in failure situations.

As a PC Tech, I’ve found that instinct is more often better relied on after the routine troubleshooting technique. When you go in (all guns blazing) and follow a random instinctive path, you’re in danger of neglecting the logic which makes a good Tech. There’s nothing worse than spending an hour pursuing a red herring, especially if someone’s paying for your time!

There are many different problems which can occur with computers and I’ve come across many as a Technician with ‘A Star Universal computers’ in Kent. We always use this methodical approach with great success. If you’re a novice or expert, these simple steps will be an aid to doing a thorough job.   There are many things which I haven’t touched on or skimmed over but I think that the overall idea is there to be grasped.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/information-technology-articles/how-to-troubleshoot-a-computer-1300406.html

About the Author:
Bill is the technical consultant for 'A Star Universal' computers in Kent UK. You can contact Bill at  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Website located at  http://www.astar-universal.co.uk