Computer Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

Power-On Self-Test (POST)

• Purpose: Diagnoses core components (CPU, video, keyboard, memory) at startup.
• Indicators of Issues: Beep codes and error messages.
  • Beep codes vary by manufacturer; consult motherboard documentation.

BIOS Errors

• Incorrect Date/Time: Indicates battery failure on the motherboard.
• Boot Order Issues: Check BIOS settings to configure boot sequence.
  • USB drives may interfere if plugged in.

Windows Stop Error (Blue Screen of Death)

• Causes: Hardware failures, driver issues, or application errors.
• Solutions:
  • Use Windows Event Viewer for details.
  • Check Microsoft support with stop code.
  • Safe Mode for troubleshooting.
  • Revert to last known good configuration, system restore, or driver rollback.

MacOS Spinning Wheel

• Indicator: System is processing and unresponsive.
• Causes: Application bugs, hardware issues, or memory paging.
• Solution: Check console logs if persistent.

Black Screen Issues

• Basic Checks:
  • Ensure all cables are properly connected.
  • Verify input settings on monitor.
• Further Steps:
  • Adjust brightness and contrast.
  • Try a different monitor.
  • Boot in VGA mode if issues persist after Windows starts.

Power-Related Issues

• If No Power:
  • Check outlet and power supply.
• Partial Power (e.g., fans working):
  • Identify power source connections.

Slow or Sluggish Performance

• Potential Causes:
  • High CPU load, Windows Update, full storage drive, or hardware throttling.
• Solutions: Use Task Manager to monitor system resource usage.

Overheating

• Symptoms: Excessive heat can cause shutdowns.
• Prevention: Regular cleaning of fans and heat sinks.

Smoke or Burning Smell

• Immediate Action: Disconnect power source.
• Action: Inspect component conditions on the motherboard.

System Freezes

• Initial Checks:
  • Observe status lights or hard drive indicators.
• Further Steps:
  • Check for recent changes or new installations.
  • Diagnose hardware thoroughly.

Continuous Reboots

• Diagnostic Steps:
  • Identify reboot stage (BIOS or OS-related).
  • Use last known good configuration or Safe Mode.

Motherboard Battery Issues

• Symptoms: Incorrect date/time due to dead battery.
• Action: Replace battery to maintain correct BIOS settings.

Hardware Noises

• Grinding or Popping:
  • Check for loose components or failing hard drives.
  • Inspect capacitors for bulging or leakage.

Application Failures

• Solutions:
  • Use Windows Event Viewer and Reliability Monitor for more information.
  • Reinstall or update problematic applications.