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Troubleshooting
Topics covered on this page include Diagnostics, Applications & Operating System, and Part Identification.
To see a complete list of the topics covered, see Contents. |
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| Diagnostics |
If the problem is not associated with a Virus, determine whether the problem relates to hardware or software.
Diagnostic tests can help determine if there is a configuration or faulty hardware component.
Several Manufacturers provide diagnostics on their support web site to download and test the unit. Others provide a flow chart, or the opportunity to send away for a Diagnostic CD.
See Manufacturer Technical Support
If you would like to run a generic diagnostic test, click here.
If Diagnostics has found the problem, refer to Parts Identification or Part Suppliers.
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| Applications & Operating System |
If the problem only occurs when a particular application is used,
the program may need to be Removed & Reinstalled.
Programs can be removed in the Control Panel, Add/Remove Programs.
If that program utilizes a particular piece of hardware,
that module may be faulty or the driver for it may need to be reinstalled.
Windows 95/98 Device Drivers can be observed, updated, and removed in the Control Panel, System, Device Manager Tab.
- If a device has an exclamation point in a yellow circle next to it, there is a resource conflict or other problem with the device.
- If a device has a red "x" next to it, the device has been disabled in that hardware profile.
Windows 2000 contains an Add/Remove Hardware Wizard in the Control Panel.
Booting the Operating System in "Safe Mode" can also help to determine conflict problems.
Multiple Drivers for the same device can be observed, updated, disabled, and removed in the Control Panel, System, Device Manager Tab.
Intermittent problems that occur in all applications may point to a common piece of hardware
like the System Board, Memory, CPU, or Hard Drive. One method of troubleshooting hardware problems is to (Power off the unit first) reseat, replace, or remove suspected hardware components (then reapply power) to see if the problem changes.
General failures could also indicate an Operating System problem.
The Microsoft site below checks the software installed on your unit and provides selectable updates as needed.
"Already Installed" updates can also be viewed.
See Windows Updates
Click PRODUCT UPDATES
Software Updates
Did you know that dozens upon dozens of updates, upgrades, and patches are released every week? Well, it's true, and the CatchUp team concentrates its efforts on tracking them down and making them available to you so you don't have to scour the Web yourself. This also means that if you want to keep your PC up-to-date, you need to run the CatchUp services regularly. Check for updates, find security patches, and detect adware.
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| Part Identification |
If the cause of the problem is determined to be a piece of faulty hardware and the unit is no longer under warranty,
the next step is to determine the part number of the failed component.
The Model (or Model Number from the serial number plate) is used to look up part numbers for the unit.
Some Manufacturers provide downloadable Quick Reference Guides, Service Guides or Maintenance Manuals, and Illustrated Parts Catalogs on their support web site.
Others may fax you a part diagram and part number list.
And others provide an printable illustrated catalog on their web site.
Part Manuals
After determining, the Part Number, the next step is to find a Source for the Part.
Certain parts are only available from the manufacturer. Since prices for common parts vary between suppliers, the bargain hunter will check as many sources as possible.
Part Suppliers
Determine if the cost of the part and shipping is less that the cost of a new unit.
Also of consideration, is the ability to replace the failed component without damaging something.
After ordering the part and obtaining an airbill number from the supplier, tracking the package may be necessary.
Package Tracking
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