How to Troubleshoot PC Hardware Problems

Troubleshoot your computer hardware problems.

All sorts of different hardware connects to a computer system, ranging from video cards to printers and scanners. Although these devices typically run smoothly, it is possible for the equipment to run into issues. Usually, the issues originate with either a connection problem or an uninstalled driver for the equipment. Regardless of the error, it is possible to fix the problem with only a few troubleshooting steps.

Things You'll Need

• Driver installation CD

Instructions

1. Check the connection of the hardware to the computer. Most hardware connects to a computer via USB data cable, in which case you need to make sure the cable is completely inserted into both the USB port on the computer and on the equipment itself. If the hardware is internally installed, you must power down the system, disconnect all cables and remove the Phillips screws along the back side of the computer. Slide open the computer case and check the hardware cards to see if it is loose in the motherboard.

2. Install the provided drivers for the hardware. Without these drivers installed, the computer is unable to connect with the equipment. The drivers are provided on an installation CD with the hardware. Insert the driver installation CD into the disc drive of the computer, then follow the prompts to completely install the information onto the system.

3. Check the system requirements to run the hardware on the computer. This is provided on the packaging of the equipment. Compare it to what is running on the computer currently by clicking "Start," "Control Panel," "System." If the equipment on the computer is not sufficient enough to run the connected hardware, you need to upgrade the computer to accept the connected equipment.

4. Restart the computer system. Occasionally, the computer does not detect every piece of hardware installed during start up. Rebooting the computer system corrects this issue, allowing you to run the hardware on the computer.

References

• Computer Hope: Basic Computer Troubleshooting Steps