PC Diagnostics Information
Troubleshooting your computer can seem difficult, but it is simple to gather a few skills and tools which can help you do your own PC diagnostics. Home computer repair can be easy and fun to learn, but you must prepare your tools and take the proper simple steps to protect yourself from electric shock. With diagnostic software and information about your hardware handy, you can prevent an expensive trip to the computer repair shop by diagnosing and repairing simple computer problems yourself.
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Diagnostic Software Downloads
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You can download diagnostic software packages online. Diagnostic software such as SysInspector and CCleaner can help determine which hardware is malfunctioning and the nature of the hardware error. If you try out other diagnostic software for your PC, take care to check the software for viruses, malware or spyware. You can protect yourself by researching the download company and software manufacturer to find out if they have had complaints about the security of the software they supply.
If your diagnostic program is unable to diagnose your hardware directly, you may be able to use the readings to isolate the hardware problem. You can find information about your hardware's ideal operating levels at the hardware manufacturer's website. When you know the hardware's correct test readings, you can use the diagnostic information to determine which hardware is malfunctioning.
Windows Operating System Utilities
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Windows, Unix and Linux offer utilities that can help you diagnose hardware and software problems in your PC. To troubleshoot your hard disk in Windows, you can use the "scandisk.exe" program, which scans your hard drive for errors and bad sectors. Scandisk can be accessed by running "scandisk.exe" from the Run function in your Windows XP start menu.
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Physical Troubleshooting
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Sometimes, a malfunction that seems huge can be caused by a small and easy-to-fix problem, such as a loose connection or a power problem. Check your hardware connections to make sure they are properly and securely connected at all connection points.
Dust that has become lodged inside the computer fan can block the cooling function of the fan and cause the computer's components to overheat and malfunction. It is good practice to open the case periodically and clear the dust with a can of compressed air.
Next, make sure that your RAM is properly seated and that your hardware is connected securely to all cords. If you know which hardware is having an error, pay it special attention. Some hardware inside your computer will have a second cable for power. Make sure that all powered hardware has a power cable.
Safety
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Unplug your computer from its power source before ever putting your hands inside the computer case. Working on your computer without unplugging it places you at dire risk of electric shock. If you don't know what to plug in where, consult a professional or schematics for your system before poking around. The wrong connection can cause damage to your computer and could cause injuries or damage to your home if it causes an electrical short or fire.
Linux and Unix Diagnostic Utilities
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Linux and Unix offer multiple operating system platforms with a number of different interface arrangements. The diagnostic utilities are most often located in the "Settings" or "Utilities" section of your operating system. Check with the official website of your particular operating system release to determine how to access the diagnostic utilities.
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