CONCEPTS OF TROUBLESHOOTING

Troubleshooting PC Hardware-related or Software- related problem can seem discouraging to

the people but in reality, it is simpler than it seems. There are some basic troubleshooting
techniques that you can do to diagnose and fix problems but you must keep in mind that
troubleshooting requires persistence and patience. By trying these ways, you will almost
come to a solution. Since computer hardware problems are usually the easiest type of
problems to solve that is where we will start.

Troubleshooting is a logical and systematic way for searching for the source of
problem so that it can be solved by Boot strap approach or by reinstalled/replaced the
suspected hardware/software that are improperly installed, configured and defective. Most
of hardware problems are caused by improperly installed or configured hardware
components.

PC TROUBLESHOOTING TECHNIQUES
There are two techniques to carry out the troubleshooting on a system, namely:
1. Reinstall or Replacing part
2. Boot strap approach
A. REINSTALL OR REPLACING PARTS: It has to do with the reseating of any improperly
installed hardware or replacing any defective hardware with a “known good part” in order
to identify the source of the problems.
Note: One component must be replaced at a time and retesting after each change you make.
B) BOOT STRAP APPROACH: This technique is good for a dead system; system parts will
be strip down to the functional parts and then test to see whether it works. For example, you
may strip down a system to the power supply, motherboard, microprocessor (with heat sink),
one bank of RAM and a video card with monitor and then power it on to see whether it
works. In this stripped configuration, you should see the POST screen on the monitor verifying
that the mother board, microprocessor, RAM and a video card with monitor are functional.
You should see the three LEDs (caps lock, scroll lock, Num lock) of keyboard connected
(optional) flash within a few seconds. This indicates that microprocessor and motherboard are
functioning because the POST routine are testing the keyboard after you get the system to
the functioning part, you should add one part at a time and testing the system each time you
make a change to verifying whether it works and that the part you added or changed is not
the cause of a problem.

PC TROUBLESHOOTING TERMS
1. POST: Power On Self-Test is the common term for a computer router or printer's pre-boot
sequence. The same basic sequence is present on all computer architectures. It is a series

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 of test performed by startup BIOS determine if it can correctly communicate with the
essential hard required for successful boot.
2. POST ERROR CODE: During booting process computer will perform power on self-test
(POST) on the major components (such as memory, video card, keyboard, mother board), if
there is POST failure computer will report the error through either beep code or text
message code.
3. BEEP CODE: Used by the computer to report error to the user. It is a set of long and short
beeps that represents or indicates a problem while booting.
4. TEXT MESSAGE CODE: used by the computer to report error to the user through display
unit (monitor). It is a visual code that indicates a problem while booting.
LIST OF POST ERROR CODE FOR DIFFERENT BIOS MANUFACTURER
Beeps Error Message Description

1long, 2 Video adapter Either video adapter is bad or is not seated properly.
short error Also, check to ensure the
Monitor cable is connected properly.

Repeating Memory error Check for improperly seated or missing memory.

(endless
loop)
1long,3short No video card or Reseat or replace the video card.
bad video RAM

High overheated CPU Check the CPU fan for proper operation. Check the
frequency case for proper air flow
beeps while
Running

Repeating CPU Either the CPU is not seated properly or the CPU is
High/Low damaged. May also be due to Excess heat. Check the
CPU fan or BIOS settings for proper fan speed.

AWARD BIOS CODE

Award BIOS Code and AMI BIOS Code respectively

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 Beeps Error Message Description

1-1-2 CPU test failure The CPU is faulty. Replace the CPU
Low 1-1-2 System board select failure The motherboard is having an
undetermined faulty, Replace the
motherboard
1-1-3 CMOS ready write error The real time dock/ CMOS is faulty, Replace
the CMOS if possible
Low 1-1-3 Extended CMOS RAM failure The extended portion of the CMOS RAM has
failed. Replace the CMOS if possible
1-1-4 BIOS ROM checksum error The BIOS ROM has failed. Replace the BIOS
or upgrade if possible
1-2-1 PIT failure The programmable Interrupt timer has
failed, Replace if possible
1-2-2 DMA failure The DMA controller has failed Replace the
IC if possible
1-2-3 DMA ready write failure The DMA controller has failed Replace the
IC if possible
1-3-1 RAM refresh failure The RAM refresh controller has failed

1-3-2 64KB RAM failure The test of the first 64KB RAM has failed to
start
1-3-3 First 64KB RAM failure The first RAM IC has failed, Replace the IC if
possible
1-3-4 First 64KB logic failure The first RAM control logic has failed
1-4-1 Address line failure The address line to the first 64KB RAM has
failed
1-4-2 Parity RAM failure The first RAM IC has failed, replace if
possible
1-4-3 EISA fail-safe timer test Replace the motherboard
1-4-4 EISA NMI port 462 test Replace the motherboard

BIOS: Basic Input/output System. Software built into the PC, and is the first code run
by a PC when powered on. The primary function of the BIOS is to load files for the system to
work called operating system. When the PC starts up, the first job for the BIOS is to initialize
and identify system devices such as the video display card, keyboard and mouse, hard disk,
CD/DVD drive and other hardware. The BIOS then locates software held on a peripheral
device (designated as a 'boot device'), such as a hard disk or a CD, and loads and executes
that software, giving it control of the PC. This process is known as booting, or booting up,
which is short for bootstrapping.
BIOS MANUFACTURERS

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Award
AMI (American Megatrends International)
Phoenix Technologies
Inside BIOS you have the following setting:
a. Hardware Configure
b. Set the system clock
c. Enable or disable system components
d. Select which devices are eligible to be a potential boot device
e. Set various password prompts; Such as a password for securing access to the BIOS set
up program and preventing malicious users from booting the system from unauthorized
peripheral devices.
TIPS TO REMEMBER WHEN RUNNING A CMOS SETUP PROGRAM

1. Getting In to the Setup Program Pressing the Delete key gets you into the setup program
for AMI and Award BIOS. Phoenix BIOS uses theF1 key, or F2, or Ctrl-Alt-Esc, or Ctrl-Alt-S.
Look at the screen for message explaining what keystroke you should use to enter the
setup program.
2. Standard Setup Here is where you will set date, time, floppy/hard drive types, video type,
and memory size. Be sure you have the hard drive specifications (the number of cylinders,
heads, and sectors per track) to enter into the setup program. Use the left/right arrow
keys to move from field to field on the screen. Use the Page Up/Page Down keys, or the
plus/minus keys to modify the values in each field. These rules apply in all setup program
screens.
3. Advanced/Extended Setup The advanced setup lets you set the boot sequence, or
perform a full or partial memory test, or enable/disable shadow RAM, or enable/disable
cache memory, or enable features like block mode and LBA mode, or to set wait states on
the CPU or memory. If you don't know how to set up these features, there should be a
keystroke you can press that reloads the factory default settings (look at the bottom of
the screen for details). You can try modifying different settings to get better performance
on your PC. There is no magic formula...trial and error works best.
4. Integrated Peripherals Some motherboards have the drive interfaces and I/O ports built
into the motherboard. This option lets you enable or disable any of these features.
5. IDE HDD Auto-Detect This feature allows you to read the drive parameters from the IDE
hard drive's diagnostic cylinder into the setup program. Use this feature to input the drive
specifications, and to assure that the drive is connected and functioning properly.
6. Green (Sleep) Features: This option allows you to enable features that shut down certain
PC components after a set period of inactivity. You can select which devices get powered-

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 down and when in this screen. Use of green features is NOT recommended for PCs on a
network, since a "sleeping" PC may be viewed as shutdown by the network file server.
7. Exiting the Setup Program, you can either save the values you have just changed, or you
can exit the program without saving the changes. Both options should be apparent to you
on the main setup program screen.

AMI WINBIOS Setup The newest version of AMI's BIOS looks like Windows 3.1. Use the same
rules as you would in Windows to Point, click, and change values on the screen.
CMOS RAM: Complimentary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor RAM. It also refers to a small
memory on PC motherboards that is used to store BIOS settings.

PC TROUBLESHOOTING TOOLS

1. Multi-meter
2. Antistatic wrist strap
3. Flat head screw driver
4. Phillips screw driver
5. Long nose pliers
6. Post card
7. Soldering iron
8. Methylated spirit.
9. Vacuum cleaner
10. Cable Tester
11. Bootable Disc

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12. Operating System Disc
13. Application Software Disc
14. Anti-Virus
15. System Diagnostic disk
16. Eye-ware
CAUSES OF COMPONENTS FAILURES
1. Heat, Friction, Dirt and Dust: Mechanical components in the computer systems such as
floppy disk, hard disk drives, keyboards and cooling fans are damaged quite often because
they contain moving parts that are destroyed by heat, friction and dirt.
2. Excessive Heat and Poor Air Circulation: Electronic failures are caused by excessive heat
and poor air circulation. These include video monitor, power cable, hard disk drive and
board that upgrade RAM. Therefore, adequate and proper ventilation must be arranged
for the system. Proper cooling is necessary for correct function of the system. Proper
cooling is necessary for correct functioning of the system. Air-cooling of the computer
room helps to prevent the action of dust and excessive heat to components. Excessive
heat causes wiring to become brittle, and solder joints to crack and board to fail.
3. Power problem: External problem such as low (or high) voltage will destroy motors in
hard disk drives, fans, floppy disk drives and printers Power surges or pulses (rapidly
turning the system off and then on) will destroy chips on the system boards and adapters,
hard disk controllers and power supply regulators. Some systems have a feature built into
power supplies or connected to it.
4. Physical Abuse: This is the instantaneous turning of system off and then on before the
hard disk stops spinning, moving the system with packing the hard disk (if require),
subjecting it to airborne, smoke, dust, chemicals, food or beverage, water spillage on the
system especially the keyboard.
PRE-CAUTIONARY MEASURES IN TROUBLESHOOTING A PC
a) Make sure that all the things you'll need is right beside you.
b) Keep your workplace neat.
c) Prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) production.
d) A well-lit room is also a needed when you are going to troubleshoot.
How to Prevent ESD? (Electro-static Discharge)
 Zero Potential-Most importantly, make sure you and the computer are at Zero Potential
by continuously touching an un-painted metal surface of the chassis or the computer
power supply case.
 Standing-It is also very important that you. Are standing at all times when working on the
computer. Setting on a chair can generate more electrostatic.
 Cords-Make sure everything is removed from the back of the computer (power cord,
mouse, keyboard, etc.).

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 Clothes-Make sure not to wear any clothing that conducts a lot of Electrical Charge, such
as a wool sweater.
 Weather-Electrical storms can increase the ESD risk; unless absolutely necessary, try not
to work on a computer during an electrical storm.

FAULT DIAGNOSIS
The most common types of procedures you will perform as a Computer technician are
troubleshooting and resolving computer problems. The more familiar you are with the
functions of the computer’s components, the easier it will be for you to find the source of the
problem and implement a solution. In the simplest cases, component will simply do nothing
and must be replaced. However, not all computer problems are that simple or obvious. For
example, what should you do when your computer gives you a “201" error message at
startup? Or if the floppy drive light comes on and won't go off?

This section presents the most common problems associated with typical computer
devices and how to resolve them. Keep in mind that these “common" problems of basic
components. They do not, by any means represent an exhaustive description of the great
variety of problems you could come across as a technician. When faced with problems that do
not have obvious solution, you should follow the basic “fact-finding “steps discuss the “Basic
Troubleshooting".

Many modern expansion cards and motherboards provide specific diagnostic and
testing tools that allow for specific diagnosis of problems. Most of the time if a system is able
to run the POST tests described in this section, higher level diagnostics are available. Many of
these diagnostics are contained floppy disks or CD-ROMs to facilitate troubleshooting. These
tools should be used when possible to further isolate a defective card or subsystem. The
symptoms described here can be caused by a number of different component problems. For
example, suppose you turn the computer on, and nothing happens at all. This problem could
be caused by a faulty processor or system board, or it could simply be the result of
disconnected power cable. The troubleshooting procedures described here assume that the
component in question has already been determined to be the cause of the problem.

Note: A good rule of thumb when troubleshooting a system that is not functioning properly is
to always perform a visual inspection of all cables and connectors. Make sure that everything
is plugged in properly before you invest any time in troubleshooting a system.

POST AUDIO AND VISUAL ERROR CODES

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 When a computer is started, the BIOS performs POST (Power-On Self-Test to check for
the presence and status of existing components. Errors foundering the POST are typically in
dictated by a visual error message on screen or by a series of beeps. These visual and audio
error codes can differ from BIOS to BIOS, so it's best to consult the manufacturer's
documentation for the meaning of each code. However, some BIOS error codes considered
“common” because they are used in most machines. For example, most error codes in the
1** series, such as 120 or 162, indicate a problem with the system board or processor. It is
rare to see a1** error code, since most system board and processor errors are serious
enough to prevent the computer from issuing the error code at all. Memory errors detected
by the POST are typically indicated by a 2**error, and keyboard errors are indicated by a 3**
error. Fortunately, most visual error codes are also accompanied by a brief description of the
problem.

Some BIOSes use a series of beeps rather than a visual message when there is a POST error.
Typically, one beep indicates that all components passed the POST. This doesn't mean that
there are no problems in the computer; it simply means that none of the components has a
problem that was detected by the BIOS. When the BIOS issues an audio error code, carefully
count the beeps and note whether they are long or short. Again, consult the BIOS
documentation for the proper meaning of each code, because these differ from system to
system. For example, one BIOS might indicate a video problem by issuing eight short beeps,
while another might use one short and two long beeps.

POWER SUPPLIES, FANS, AND AIRFLOW

Power supplies can experience total or partial failures, resulting in inconsistent or displaced
symptoms. However, you can identify a few “common" symptoms of power supply failure to
pinpoint the problem; those symptoms are discussed here. When the power supply fails, it
must be replaced. Never try to open or repair a power supply, because it can hold enough
charge to seriously injure you.
NOTHING HAPPENS WHEN THE COMPUTER IS TURNED ON
There are a few things that can cause lack of any activity at system startup such as a bad
processor or memory, but the most likely suspect is the power supply. When the power
supply stops working, so does the computer’s fan, which is typically the first thing you hear
when you turn the computer on. Check to make sure that the power supply is properly
connected to an electrical outlet. In addition, check the power selector (on the back of the
computer between the power cord connection and the on/off switch) to ensure that it has
the right setting for your geographic region (Nigeria [220], North American [115] and
European [230] voltage).

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 Power supply is not only one of the most important parts in a PC. People spend hours
discussing their processor speeds, memory capacity, disk storage capacity and speed, video
adapter performance but rarely eve mention or considered their power supply. The power
supply function is critical because it supplies electrical power to every other component in the
system. In my experience, power supply is one of the most failures -prone component in any
computer system. A malfunctioning power supply can not only cause other components in
the system to malfunction, but also can damage the other components in your computer
system by delivering an improper voltage. Because of its importance to proper and reliable
system operation you should understand the symptoms, cause of the power failure and
solution to the power failure in the computer.

POWER SUPPLY FUNCTION

The basic function of the power supply is to convert the types of electrical power available at
the wall socket to the type the computer circuitry can use. The power supply in a
conventional desktop system is designed to convert 220VAC into +3.3v, +5v and+12vDC
power. Some power supply requires you to switch between the two input ranges, whereas
others are auto-switch. Figure below has shown various computer devices and their power
consumptions.

Voltage Devices Powered

+3.3v Chipset, DIMMs, PCI/AGP card

+5v Disk drive logic board, SIMMs, ISAb card

+12v Motor, voltage regulator

POWER SUPPLY TROUBLESHOOTING

Troubleshooting power supply basically means isolating the power supply as the cause of
problems within a system and if necessary, replacing it.
POWER SUPPLY FAILURE SYMPTOM, CAUSE AND SOLUTION.
SYMPTOM:
 System start up failure.
 Spontaneous rebooting.
 Intermittent lock up during normal operation.
 Intermittent parity check error.
 Hard disk and fan simultaneously failing to spin.
 System overheating.

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  Electrical shocks on case.
CAUSE:
 Loss power cable
 Bad power cable
 Bad power supply
 No+12vdc output in power supply
 Failing fan in power supply
 The switch on the back of the power supply is not proper voltage ranges.
SOLUTIONS:
 Make sure the cord is firmly seated in the wall socket to power supply socket.
 Replace the power cable with a known good one
 Replace the power supply with a known good one
 Check the AC power input.
 Make sure the power switch on the back of power supply is in proper voltage range.
 Test the power supply for proper voltage output.
 Check the voltage at the power-Good pin (P1 on A-type's connector) for +3v to +6v of
power.
 Make sure the mother board and disk drive power firmly seated and making good
contact.

PC-START UP/ BOOT

When the computer is started (Booted), BIOS runs Power-On Self-Test (POST). During the
POST, BIOS checks for the presence and function of each component it has been programmed
to manage. It first checks the processor, then the RAM and then system essential devices such
as floppy drive, hard drive, key board and monitor. It then tests non-essential devices such as
the CD-ROM drive and sound card. Next, the BIOS retrieve the resource (IRQ and I/O address)
setting from the CMOS RAM and assign them to the appropriate devices. The BIOS then
processes the remaining CMOS RAM settings such as time or keyboard status. Finally, the BOS
search for an operating system and give control of the system to the operating system. All
these processes are usually known as PC-STARTUP. If the POST encounters a problem sever
enough to keep the PC from operating properly, it stops PC-STARTUP process and generates
an error message that often identifies the cause of the problem.

POWER ON SELF TEST (POST) ERROR CODE

When a computer is started, the BIOS performs POST (Power-Oneself Test) to check for the
presence and function of computer components. Errors found during the POST are indicated

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by a visual error message on the screen or by a series of beeps. These visual and audio error
codes can differ from BIOS to BIOS. So, it is best to consult the manufacturer's documentation
for the meaning of each code. The figure 1 and 2 below have shown the POST error code for
Award BIOS and AMI BIOS as show above.
AWARD BIOS CODES
Beeps Visual error message Description

1 long,2 short Video adapter error Either video adapter is bad

or is not seated properly
Repeating/continuous Memory error Improperly seated or missing
beeps memory
1 long,3 short No video card or bad Improperly seated video missing
video RAM memory card or defective video card
High frequency beeps Overheated CPU CPU fan not properly operate or Not
while running proper air flow in system case
computer
Repeating CPU failed/bad CPU is not properly seated; CPU is
High/low beep damaged or CPU overheating done to
excess
Heat.

AMI BIOS CODES

Visual error message Description

Beeps
1-1-2 CPU test failure CPU is faulty

Low l- System board select failure The mother board is having an

1-2 undetermined fault
1-1-3 CMOS read/write error CMOS is faulty

1-1-4 BIOS ROM check sum error The BIOS ROM has failed

1-2-2 DMA failure The DMA controller has failed

visual error message for AMI BIOS CODES

PROBLEM ENCOUNTERED DURING POST

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The problem that occur during the POST are usually cause by incorrect hardware
configuration or installation. If you have a POST error code you can ask yourself the following
questions.
1. Are all cables are connected and secured correctly.
2. Are the configurations settings correct in setup for devices you have installed? In
particular, ensure the processor, memory and hard drive settings are correct
3. Are all driver properly installed?
 Are all resource setting on peripheral devices set So that conflict exist?
 Is the power supply set to the proper input voltage range*(110/220v)?
 Are adapter cards and disk drive installed correctly?
 Is a keyboard attached?
 Is a bootable hard disk (properly partitioned and formatted) installed?
 Is a bootable floppy disk insert in drive A?
 Does the BIOS support the drive you have installed and if so, are the parameter
entered correctly?
 Are all memory SIMM or DIMM installed correctly?
 Is the operating system installed?

PC-STARTUP FAILURE, SYMPTOM, CAUSE AND SOLUTION

SYMPTOM:

1. System won't start, error messages on screen indicating system can’t boot

CAUSE:
 Hard disk might not be connected to system
 Hard disk might not be partitioned or formatted
 Hard disk might not be set up correctly in BIOS setting program Hard disk might be
bad
SOLUTION:
 Check drive cabling
 Cheek drive partition
 Check drive BIOS configuration.

SYMPTOM:

2. System beeps several times when turned on, does not start properly

CAUSE:

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  Hardware errors

SOLUTION:

 Count beeps and referred to the motherboard documentation for interpreting the code

SYMPTOM:

3. System displays error message when turn on, doesn’t start properly

CAUSE:

 Serious hardware error

SOLUTION:

 Look up error code in the motherboard documentation

SYMPTOM:

4. System cannot boot from hard drive

CAUSE:

 Hard drive is not properly configured

 Hard drive is not properly installed
 Bad data cable
 Improper hard drive voltage

SOLUTION:

 Properly configured the hard drive

 Properly installed the hard drive
 Replace the data cable
 Check hard drive power connector for proper voltage.

SYMPTOM:

5. Missing operating system error

CAUSE:

 Incorrect drive setting

 No active partition
 Missing or corrupted OS system file

SOLUTION:

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  Check hard drive setting, if correctly set.
 Create active partition on the drive
 Re-installed the operating system

SYMPTOM:

6. Invalid drive specification error

CAUSE:

 No partition on disk

SOLUTION

 Use FDISK or equivalent to partition drive

SYMPTOM:

7. Invalid media type error

CAUSE:

 No valid format on drive

SOLUTION:

 Use FORMAT or Norton Disk Doctor

SYMPTOM:

8. Hard disk controller failure error

CAUSE:

 Incorrect cabling between drive and IDE connector

SOLUTION:

 Check cables for proper connection.

POWER ON SELF TEST CHECK LISTS

POST is the Power-On Self-Test which your computer performs when you turn it on/re-boot.
Below is listed what POST checks:

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1. 100 Series: Motherboard checks
2. 200 Series: Memory chip checks
3. 300 Series: Keyboard checks
4. 400 Series: Monochrome monitor checks
5. 500 Series: Color monitor (CGA) checks
6. 600 Series: Floppy Disk Drive checks
7. 700 Series: Math Co-processor checks
8. 900-1000 Series: Parallel Port Adapter Checks
9. 1100-1200 Series: Serial Port Adapter Checks
10. 1300 Series: Game Port Adapter Checks
11. 1400 Series: Printer Checks
12. 1700 Series: Hard Disk/Disk Controller Checks

You may also hear a series of beeps when you turn on the computer, IF. SOMETHING IS
WRONG. Normally, you hear only one short beep. Here is what the DOS Audio Error codes
mean:

1. No display, no beeps: No Power

2. Continuous beep: Power supply failure
3. Repeating short beeps: Power supply failure
4. One long and two short beeps: Display adapter (video card) failure
5. One long and three short beeps: Display adapter (video card) failure

STEPS IN THE BOOT PROCESS

1. When the PC is powered up, the CPU resets itself, clears out any left-over data, and looks
to an address in memory called F000 ...that is where the ROM BIOS chip is located. The
ROM BIOS chip is what makes your PC IBM compatible. When the CPU finds the ROM BIOS
chip, it invokes the first program found in memory, Which POST: The Power-On Self-Test.
This self-test ensures that all components are operating properly BEFORE you begin
working the computer.
2. As POST checks your computer, it looks to a record of data CMOS RAM that tells what kinds
of components are in your Specifically, it records what type of video card, floppy drives,
hard disk, memory and so forth are contained in your PC.POST will test your computer
based on what it believes is in your PC ... if the information is missing or incorrect, the PC
may not be able to recognize or use certain components in your system. It's important to
keep a record of what specifically is inside your computer, and that you have a record of
what is written into CMOS RAM.
3. If POST finds that there is a problem with your PC, it will display an error message or an
error code that tells specifically what is wrong with the unit. If it cannot display such a

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 message, it will beep in a specific pattern that indicates exactly what is wrong. If everything
is OK with the computer, POST will sound one beep to the system speaker, indicating that
all of the tests passed normally with no errors.
4. The ROM BIOS will then look to the boot sector of either a floppy disk or a hard disk to find
IO.SYS, the boot loader program of your operating system. If it can't find this file in that
location, the PC will give an error message to the screen. When it does find the file, it loads
the file into RAM, and then your operating system takes charge of the computer.
5. MSDOS.SYS then loads into memory (for both DOS and Win95). It contains the bulk of the
operating system code that makes DOS orWin95 operate. Specifically, it lets you manage
file names, execute programs, and allows hardware and software to manage interrupt
(IRQ) requests.
6. Then, CONFIG.SYS configures your system for the specific kinds of hardware that are
contained in the system. Lines like DEVICEHIGH=C:\MOUSE.SYS tell DOS where to find the
mouse driver, and where to load it into memory. DOS and Win95 both use a CONFIG.SYS
file.
7. Then, COMMAND.COM loads into memory. It is your command interpreter, and it allows
you to input commands at a DOS prompt. DOS and Win95 both have COMMAND.COM as
one of the system files.
8. Finally, AUTOEXEC.BAT loads into memory any programs you wish to run every time you
start or reboot your computer. Usually at the end of the AUTOEXEC.BAT file, the PC will call
up Windows, or a menu program, or will allow you to log into a network, so that you can
begin working with the computer as you would wish. Both DOS and Win95 use
AUTOEXEC.BAT.

If any of these steps do not occur in a normal manner, your PC may not boot up as you would
expect. Knowing the steps in the boot process will help you when trouble-shooting or
analyzing problems with your PC.

TROUBLESHOOTING MEMORY

Most cases, memory problems are fatal, meaning that when there is such problem, the
computer will not boot at all. If you turn on the computer and it does nothing and you have
eliminated power problem, there might be a problem with memory. The solution to a
memory problem is to remove the offending memory and replace it with a known good
memory. Memory failures may not cause a system to appear to malfunction at all. Most
modern systems will simply ignore a memory card that has malfunctioned and normal
operations will continue. The user may note the performance drops, which is a key symptom
of a memory card failure.

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MEMORY FAILURE SYMPTOM, CAUSE AND SOLUTION

SYMPTOM:

1. System won't boot after installing new memory

CAUSE:

 Memory might be too slow for system

SOLUTION

 Install new memory which faster than previous memory

SYMPTOM:

2. System locks up

CAUSE:

 Corroded memory socket or slot

SOLUTION:

 Remove memory and clean memory socket

SYMPTOM:

3. Soft memory error

CAUSE:

 Radio frequency interference

SOLUTION:

 Move cause of RF away from system

SYMPTOM:

4. Memory parity interrupt error message

CAUSE:

 Parity checking has detected an error in RAM

SOLUTION:

 Shut down the system and restart it.

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  Remove and re-install memory.

You should also check to ensure the Pin P8, P9 and other power cables are properly attached
to necessary devices, including the computer's power button. If the power supply doesn’t
work, replace it. If this still does not solve the problem, try removing all power connections to
the power supply and turning the PC back on. The fan on the power supply should start. If it
doesn't, this is a clear indication that the power supply has malfunctioned.

PROCESSOR AND MEMORY SYMPTOMS

In most cases, processor and memory problems are fatal, meaning that when there is such a
problem, the computer will not boot at all. However, you should be aware of some nonfatal
error indicators. As described, 1**error codes are typical of processor problems, and 2**
error codes are typical of memory problems. If you turn on the computer and it does not even
complete the POST or it does nothing at all, and you have eliminated power problems, there
might be a problem with the processor or memory. The solution to a processor or memory
problem to remove the offending component and replace it with a new one. If the error
persists, there might be a problem with the slot or socket that the memory processor uses to
connect to the motherboard. In this case, the motherboard needs to be replaced. Some RAM
errors are not reported by the computer at that is, if an entire memory module does not
work, the computer might ignore it and continue to function normally without it. Watch as
the RAM counted on the screen at startup to ensure that the total amount matches capacity
installed in the machine. If this amount comes up significant short, you probably have to
replace the memory module. Memory failures may not cause a system to appear to
malfunction at all. Most modern system will; simply ignore a memory card that has
malfunctioned and norm operations will continue. The user may note performance loss,
which is a key symptom of a memory card failure.

TROUBLESHOOTING MOUSE

A number of different symptoms are associated with mice, and they provide common source
of computer problems. Fortunately, most procedures to solve a mouse problem are quite
simple. Let's look at two common mouse-related problems.

THE INTERNAL ROLLERS IN A TYPICAL MOUSE SYMPTOM AND PROBLEM

WITH SOLUTION

1. Unplug the Mouse, turn it upside-down and remove the retaining ring (usually by twisting
it counter-clockwise).
2. Slowly invert the mouse so that the ball drops into your hand.

18
3. If the ball is dirty or sticky, you can clean it with soapy water.
4. Locate the rollers inside the mouse. There are typically two long black rollers and one small
metallic roller.
5. Use your fingers to remove the "ring" of dust from each roller, taking care not to let any
material fall even further into the mouse.
6. If the rollers are sticky or if Step 5 is insufficient to clean rollers, use a cotton swab dipped
in isopropyl alcohol to clean them.
7. When you are finished, replace the mouse ball and retaining ring ensuring that they are
secured in place Situations the ball may be dirty You can usually clean the ball with
alcohol/ Methylated spirit to remove dirt.

THE MOUSE POINTER DOESN'T MOVE SMOOTHLY ON THE SCREEN

Common mechanical mouse problem is irregular movement of the mouse pointer across the
screen. Some mice even appear to hit an "invisible wall “on the screen. These symptoms
indicate dirty mouse rollers. This problem is very common because, as the mouse is rolled
across a desk or table, it can pick up debris, which is then deposited on the internal rollers.
Many of the newer mice have eliminated the mechanical ball and roller system in favour of an
optical or electronic motion sensing process. These types of mice may need to be cleaned, but
they are proving to be much more liable than the older mechanical mouse.

THE MOUSE POINTER DOESN'T MOVE ON THE SCREEN

The mouse pointer failure to move across the screen indicates that the computer cannot
communicate properly with the mouse, so it is not receiving appropriate signals to move the
mouse pointer. One reason for this problem could be an IRQ conflict with another device.
Because a serial mouse must use COM port, it also uses that port's IRQ and I/O address.
However, recall that some COM ports can share IRQ addresses. If another device attached to
a COM port shares an IRQ with the mouse COM port, the mouse will probably work at all. If
you are running Microsoft Windows 9X you would use the vice Manager which is located
under the Control Panel to determine if there a resource conflict. If there is, move the
offending device to a different COM port. Windows 2000 and Windows XP use Device
Manager which resides in computer Management, which is accessible under the Control
Panel.

If the problem is not IRQ related, it might be driver related. That is, the mouse river
might be either corrupted or missing altogether. If you suspect arising driver, you need to
manually load the driver from the Setup disk that came with the mouse. If there is no driver
disk, try simply restarting the computer. Most mice are Plug and Play, so the OS might
automatically detector mouse and load the appropriate driver for it at startup. If you suspect

19
that a mouse diver exists but has become corrupted, use the Device Manager the Mouse icon
in the Control Panel to remove the existing driver and is the driver.

Finally, an unresponsive mouse might be a symptom of a malfunctioning adapter card

if it is a bus mouse. A bus mouse adapter card must be installed and configured in the same
manner as other expansion cards. Ensure that it has the proper resources and that there are
no conflicts. Next, ensure that the adapter card's device driver is loaded. You can also try
opening the computer to ensure that the card is properly seated in the expansion slot or try
replacing the card.

TROUBLESHOOTING OF FLOPPY DRIVES

There are a number of ways a floppy drive can fail, so there are a number of different
symptoms you must be aware of. Fortunately, most floppy failures from the disk, not the
drive itself. Whenever you encounter a floppy drive failure, the first thing you should do is
determine whether or not the is at fault. The easiest way to do this is to eject the disk and
insert another. If the problem goes away, the disk, not the drive, is the source of the problem.
If you must have the information on a particular disk that's giving you trouble, try gently
pulling the metal cover back and letting it snap back into place a few times, then reinserting
the disk in the drive and trying to access the data again. You can also try to use the disk in a
different drive. The floppy disk, rather than the drive, is the cause of most floppy errors.

SYMPTOM, PROBLEM AND SOLUTION ON FLOPPY DRIVES

AN “A:IS NOT ACCESSIBLE"ERROR MESSAGE

If you put a disk in the drive and receive an “A: is not accessible” message, the drive cannot
detect a floppy disk. The most common reason for this error is simply that no disk has been
inserted in the drive or was inserted all the way. Check to make sure that there is a disk
inserted. If there is, remove the disk and try pulling the metal cover back a few tines to loosen
it; if the drive cannot pull the cover back, it cannot access the data on the disk.

AN"ERROR WRITING TO DISK” MESSAGE

One of the most common symptoms of a floppy drive problem is a message stating that there
is an error reading from or writing to the disk. This type of message typically indicates that the
floppy drive controller is communicating properly with the computer but simply cannot
access disk information. First, try to access a different disk, to rule out the original disk as the
cause of the problem. If you determine that the problem is drive rather than disk related, try
cleaning the drive's read/write heads.

20
 Floppy drive cleaning kits can be purchased at many computer retail or parts stores.
Typically, the kit includes a cleaning solution and what looks like a regular floppy disk. In most
cases, the cleaning solution is applied to the disk, and the disk is inserted in the drive. The
read/write heads are cleaned as they try to access the disk.

If the drive still cannot access a disk after cleaning, and you can read the floppy in
another system, the problem lies within the drive itself, and it must be replaced.

A FLOPPY DRIVE LIGHT THAT WON'T GO OFF

A floppy drive light that comes on at startup and doesn't go out indicates reversed ribbon
cable. A floppy drive light that won't go off indicates that the drive's ribbon cable is attached
incorrectly. Turn the computer off, remove the computer's cover, and reattach the cable the n
way. Remember, the red stripe on the cable must be aligned with pan l on the system board
and on the drive.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU RECEIVE AN “A: IS NOT ACCESSIBLE”

ERROR?
Check for the presence of a floppy disk in the drive. Make sure that the drive works and is
properly attached. Check to ensure that the BIOS settings match the drive type. The floppy drive light
comes on and won’t go off? Reverse the orientation of the ribbon cable in the floppy drive port.

AN "INVALID DRIVE" ERROR WHEN ACCESSINGFLOPPY DRIVE

When you see this error-and any time the computer doesn't recognize the presence of the
floppy drive-it means that the drive is not communicating properly with the computer. Turn
the computer off and remove the cover Make sure that the ribbon cable is present and
properly and firmly attached. Next, make sure that the drive is receiving adequate power
from the power supply. When you are satisfied that the drive is connected properly, restart
the computer and access the CMOS settings program. Ensure that the correct floppy drive
configuration is present in the BIOS settings. If the computer still does not recognize the
floppy drive, try replacing the cable. If that doesn't fix the problem, the drive must be
replaced with a working drive.
If the BIOS settings are correct and the drive still won't work, or if the BIOS cannot
detect the hard drive, there could be a cabling problem. Open the computer and ensure that
the drive has the proper master or slave driver setting and that the ribbon and power cables
are attached properly and securely. You should verify that the ribbon cable is not the problem
by replacing it with a known good one. If the cables, jumpers, and BIOS settings have been
ruled out, the problem is with the drive itself, and it must be replaced.

FLOPPY DRIVE TESTING GUIDELINES

21
1. Locate a floppy drive; notice the appearance of the floppy drive. There are 2 kinds of
floppy drives: 5.25" and 3.5" floppy drives. Both kinds of drives have double density and
high-density types. You will probably NOT be able to tell by looking at the drive. Assume
the drive is a HIGH-DENSITY drive for testing purposes. If the drive fails, try testing it as a
DOUBLE DENSITY drive.
2. Plug the floppy drive into the appropriate test PC and turn on both the monitor and PC.
3. Run the ROM BIOS setup program and set the correct drive type.
4. Use some kind of software to test the floppy drive's operation (Checklist or AT
diagnostics.)
5. If the floppy drive works properly, label the drive and store it in the appropriate place in
the lab.
6. If the floppy drive does not work correctly, test and make sure that the floppy drive is
correctly attached to the PC.
7. If the floppy drive is REALLY DEAD, indicate this on the dead floppy drive log and dispose
of the floppy drive.
8. If you need assistance, let someone know. If you're unsure of whether a floppy drive is OK
or not, label the floppy drive as such and move on.

TROUBLESHOOTING HARD DRIVES

Many things can go wrong with a hard drive, each of which can result in a number of different
symptoms, so it can be difficult to determine the cause of the problem. The most common
symptoms are discussed here.

SYMPTOM，PROBLEM AND SOLUTION ON HARD DRIVE

If you are troubleshooting a disk boot problem, it may be helpful to unplug all IDE devices that
are not needed for the boot process. If the system boots with these devices disconnected it
may help you isolate the problem. You can reconnect them one at a time until you find the
problem device.

THE COMPUTER WILL NOT BOOT PROPERLY

When you start the computer, you might receive a 16** POST error message. You could also
get a message stating that there is no hard drive present. Typically, these errors are not fatal,
and you can boot the computer using a special boot (floppy disk). When you receive this
error, it means that the computer doesn’t recognize or cannot communicate with the hard
drive. First, restart the computer and enter the CMOS settings. Ensure that the proper hard
drive type is listed in the BIOS drive configuration. If it is not, enter the appropriate settings,
or use the system's hard drive detection option.

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NOTHING HAPPENS WHEN THE COMPUTER IS TURNED ON
Many things can cause the computer not to turn on, including a bad power supply or system board. It
can also be a result of the system not being plugged in or an improperly connected hard drive. Check
the hard drive ribbon cable to ensure that the red stripe is aligned with pin 1. Sometimes your friends
may play practical jokes on you. Many power supplies are now configured to support 120 or 220 volts
(European standard). Verify that someone did not change the setting to the wrong voltage setting to
see if your troubleshooting skills are up to date.

THE COMPUTER REPORTS THAT THERE IS NO OPERATING SYSTEM

Once the BIOS has finished the POST, it looks for the presence of an OS on the hard drive. If
the BIOS does not find a special OS pointer in the drive's master boot record, it assumes that
no OS exists. If you Haven’ t yet installed an OS, you must do so at that point. If an OS exists
but cannot be accessed, try using the SYS command at a DOS prompt to make the drive
bootable. That is, reboot the computer from the floppy drive. (This command described in
Chapter 10.) Use the commands This command replaces the pointer in the master boot
recording the computer might be able to boot properly. Unfortunately, most cases of a
missing OS occur from the corruption or loss of essential OS files. If this is the case, you need
to reload the OS. When data becomes corrupted, it might be a sign that the disk is about to
fail. You should consider running Scandisk to resolve these problems. You might also want to
consider replacing the hard disk before it fails completely. Before you do this, boot from a
floppy disk, then try to access and save any salvageable information from the hard drive.

HARD DRIVE TESTING GUIDELINES

1. Locate a hard drive; notice the appearance of the hard drive. The most common types of
hard drives: IDE and SCSI hard drives. Notice the model number and manufacturer of the
drive; use that information to identify the correct specifications and drive type for that
hard drive (i.e., cylinder head count, sectors per tracked etc.).
2. Plug the hard drive into the appropriate test PC and turn on both the monitor and PC.
3. Run the ROM BIOS setup program and set the correct drive type.
4. Try to access the drive. If it says "Invalid drive specification”, run DISK and then the DOS
FORMAT program. If that doesn't work, attempt to low-level format the drive using Disk
Manager.
5. Use some kind of software to test the hard drive's operation; (Disk Manager, Checkit or AT
diagnostics).
6. If the hard drive works properly, label the drive and store it in the appropriate place in the
lab.
7. If the hard drive does not work correctly, test and make sure that the hard drive is
correctly attached to the PC.

23
8. If the hard drive is REALLY DEAD, indicate this on the dead hard drive log and dispose of
the hard drive.
9. If you need assistance, let someone know. If you're unsure of whether a hard drive is OK
or not, label the hard drive as such and move on.

TROUBLESHOOTING CD-ROM AND DVD DRIVES

CD-ROM and DVD drives are functionally similar, so you can install or troubleshoot them
using similar methods. A common problem either of these devices is that the computer will
report it can't read the disc. First, check to ensure the disc is inserted the right way. The label
must be facing up so the drive can access the data from the underside of the disc. Next,
visually inspect the disc. Scratches or smudges may prevent computer from reading the disc.
Try another disc in the drive to rule out the media as the cause. Cleaning the laser lens may
also help solve the problem. Commercially available CD-ROM cleaning and repair kits are
readily available to restore CDs or clean the laser. Make sure you follow this direction in these
kits, as improper use may cause more problems than they solve.
If the drive is the problem, check the Device Manager to ensure it has been
recognized. Reload the device's driver if necessary, and check its system resources. If the
problem persists, check the ribbon cable connection and jumper setting. Try the drive in
another computer to pinpoint it or rule it out as the cause of the problem.

THE SOUND CARD AND AUDIO

The components that make up a computer audio system are the sound card, the speakers, and the
supporting software. All Sound system problems can be narrowed down to one or more of these
components.

 driver
 sound card may not be well seated
 Virus
 Volume

SYMPTOM, PROBLEM AND SOLUTION

THE SPEAKERS PRODUCE NO SOUND

The problem of speakers failing to produce sound can be caused by a number of

things. First, start with the speakers. Check to make sure that the volume is turned up to a
sufficient level. In addition, check to make sure that they are plugged into the sound card and
the proper port. There are three ports on the sound card: microphone, sound out, and sound
in. Although current sound cards and speakers come with color-coded connectors and
connections, they didn't always. It is possible that the speaker is plugged into the wrong port.

24
If the speaker uses an external power source, ensure that the power cable is properly
attached and that the speakers are turned on. Try the speakers in another system to pinpoint
them or rule them out as the cause of the problem.

If the speakers and the cables are not at fault, turn your attention to the audio software in the
computer. Make sure that the Mute option has not been enabled and that the software-
controlled volume is adjusted to a sufficient level. Try to produce sound in a number of
different applications or reinstall the audio software.

If the sound card is at fault, check to make sure that it has the proper resources and device
driver. If it does not, reassign an available IRQ, I/O address, and DMA channel, and reload the
card's device driver. If the problem is still not resolved, open the computer and make sure
that the sound card is properly and securely seated in the expansion slot. If the sound card is
no longer working, replace it

Some of the newer sound systems provide advanced speaker output capabilities,
which allows for multi-channel hi-fi to be played by your computer. Hooking these systems up
can sometimes require external connectors, splitters, and other devices. Make sure they are
all functioning and connected properly before diving into the audio card.

A LOT OF STATIC IS COMING FROM THE SPEAKERS

The symptom of speaker static might be the result of a number of problems, but it is very
unlikely to be caused by the sound card. First, check the volume on the speakers and the
software. If the speakers are turned way up but the computer's software-controlled volume is
turned down or off the speakers transmit the only signals they are receiving-static. The static
could also be the result of a failing cable. Replace the cables with known good ones. If the
static persists, it could be due to EMI (Electro Magnetic Interference). Move the speakers as
far away from desktop lights, the monitor, and other interference-causing devices as you can.
To rule out the speakers and cables, replace them with known working ones. The static could
also be the result of bad data in the sound file. Try to play a different sound file to see if the
static continues. Similarly, if you are listening to a CD, try another CD.

THE COMPUTER IS NOT PRODUCING THE RIGHT SOUNDS

Sometimes when you play a sound file, it is played incorrectly or just makes "noise. “Because
the speakers only amplify and cannot alter sound signals, you can rule them out as the cause
of the problem. Occasionally a user may be attempting to listen to more than one type of
sound file at a time (such as a CD and streaming audio); this may cause the sound card to
garble the sounds as a result of the mixing process. Make sure you are only attempting to
solve the problem using one audio source. The problem could be in the sound file itself. Try

25
another sound file or, if you're using a CD, replace the CD with another and try to play a
sound file. If the problem is not limited to a specific sound file, try reinstalling the sound
application or player software. Most CD-ROMS provide an external audio cable on the back of
the CD-ROM drive. This cable must be connected to the sound card if you want your CD-ROM
to be able to play music. The most common symptom of this cable being missing is that the
CD-ROM and software function properly and no music comes out of the speakers. This cable
is frequently not connected when an in experienced person installs a CD-ROM drive or
replaces a sound card.

Symptoms and Problem Like the sound of a system, a computer's video system
contains a number of components, so it can be a bit tricky to diagnose and resolve problems,
another difficulty in resolving display problems is that you often don't see any display, so you
can't see the OS or BIOS settings in order to remedy the problem.

MONITOR
This is a peripheral device that enables the user access what is going on in the system in order
to make sure it processes the right data appropriately. Once the monitor is bad you won't
know what is going on the system. We have different types of monitor namely Cathode Ray
Tube (CRT) and Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) type, so there are problems and solutions for
different types of monitor but mostly on the CRT. These below are some common problems
and solutions.

SYMPTOM, PROBLEM AND SOLUTION

THE COMPUTER CONTINUES TO BEEP AT STARTUP AND WON'T BOOT

PROPERLY
This is an indication of a missing monitor or a missing or faulty video First, check to ensure
that the monitor is properly attached to the video card. Don't worry about the monitor's
power or settings, because these won't affect the computer's ability to boot. Next, check the
function of the video card. Because there is no display, you can't check the resource or driver
settings. You can however, install the card in another computer to determine fit is
functioning. If it is not, it must be replaced.

COMPLETE LACK OF PICTURE

 If your monitor displays nothing at all and does not issue a beep code, the first thing you
should do is move the mouse or press a key on the keyboard. Many computers use screen
savers or power modes that cause the screen to go blank after a specified period of time.
Using the mouse or the keyboard should return the computer to its normal state.

26
 If this action doesn't solve the problem, begin by checking the video system components.
Start with the easiest component first-the monitor. Make sure that the monitor is plugged
into a power outlet and is turned on. Also ensure that the brightness is set at an adequate
level. Next, check the cable that attaches the monitor to the computer. Verify that none of
the pins are bent in on the video connector, straighten them out if necessary. In most
cases, a missing or unattached cable will result in a POST error, but it is possible for this
cable to come loose during operation. You can determine if the monitor is at fault by
swapping it with a known good one.
 If the new monitor works in the system, you can assume that the original monitor is the
problem.
 If the monitor is not the cause, check that the video card seated in the expansion slot.
Accelerated Graphic Port (AGP) cards, earlier ones, are not easily seated. Press the card
firmly (not too hard) and listen for an audible click to tell you the card is seated.

MONITOR TESTING GUIDELINES

1. Locate a monitor, notice the appearance of the monitor. If the cable has a 9-pin
connector, it's Monochrome or Enhanced Graphic Adapter (EGA). If the monitor has the
word "Enhanced" on it, it's probably EGA monitor.
2. If the cable has a 15-pin connector, it is a Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) monitor.
3. Plug the monitor into the appropriate test PC and turn on both the monitor and PC.
4. Use some kind of software to test the monitor's display capability (Checkit, PC Probe,
SYSCHK, etc.)
5. If the screen displays properly, label the monitor and store appropriate place in the lab.
6. If the monitor does not display correctly, test and make sure that the monitor is attached
to the correct video card.
7. If the monitor is REALLY DEAD, indicate this on the dead monitor log and dispose of the
monitor.
8. If you need assistance, let someone know. If you're unsure of whether a monitor is OK or
not, label the monitor as such and move on.

TROUBLESHOOTING KEYBOARD

This is another peripheral device as well which enables the user to provide imputation to the
system, there have some peculiar problems such as key not working or not what working at
all just go ahead and replace them

KEYBOARD TESTING GUIDELINES

27
1. Locate a keyboard; notice the appearance of the keyboard; there are 2 kinds of
keyboards: Standard and Enhanced keyboards.
2. Plug the keyboard into the appropriate test PC and turn on both the monitor and PC.
3. Use some kind of software to test the keyboard's operation (mauves beacon).
4. If the keyboard works properly (that means ALL the keys work), label the keyboard and
store it in the appropriate place in the lab.
5. If the keyboard does not work correctly, test and make sure that the keyboard is attached
to the correct PC.
6. If the keyboard is REALLY DEAD, indicate this on the dead keyboard log and dispose of the
keyboard.
7. If you need assistance, let someone know. If you're unsure of whether keyboard is OK or
not, label the keyboard as such and move on.

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR REPAIRING COMPUTERS

Use these following ten rules when repairing or troubleshooting a computer:
1. Gather together your toolkit and any documentation for that specific computer: You
may also want to have the Mueller textbook available...it is a good resource for technical
specifications and system disassembly guidelines.
2. Check for power FIRST, before doing anything else: 10-15 percent of all trouble calls are
for nothing more than a popped circuit breaker or a loose plug. Check these things
BEFORE doing anything else.
3. Check your external connections to the computer: Specifically, check the mouse,
keyboard, monitor, modem and/or printer cables, making sure that all are secure and in
the right sockets.
4. If the computer is still malfunctioning, go ahead then and open the case: Check to see
that all of the cards are fully pressed down into the bus connections, that any socket chips
are fully pressed into their sockets, and that all cable connections are fully attached. Make
sure that the drive cables are attached so that the colored stripe the cable is positioned
next to pin 1 on the connector.
5. Clean any dust or foreign material out of the case while it is open: Dust can cause
overheating problems and electrical shorts. Sometimes, insects will nest inside the case as
well. All of these 01 needs be cleaned out before you close up the case. Use compressed
air and non-conductive materials to clean out the inside of the case. Take precautions to
avoid inhaling excess dust, and consider using protective eye-ware if necessary.
6. Try to boot the computer to the hard drive, or to a bootable floppy disk if necessary:
Sometimes the hard disk will become corrupted by a user, or by a virus. If you can't access
the hard drive directly, have a bootable floppy disk available. This bootable floppy disk
should have a copy of your CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files on it, as well as any

28
 drivers necessary for devices like your sound card, CD-ROM drive, and mouse. Have a
good disk diagnostic program available (SCANDISK, Norton Utilities), and a good virus
checking program as well. If your data is severely damaged, you may need to wipe the
disk and reload the data from original or backup disks.
7. Check the CMOS setup program, and correct any configuration problems: If the
information in CMOS RAM about your PC's configuration been changed, or if the battery
has died, your computer will not boot correctly, or it will not recognize certain
components. Keep a copy of your setup program information handy, so that if something
changes, you can correct the problem. Replacement of CMOS batteries should last about
2-3 years.
8. Look for unwelcome changes: Someone may have turned the brightness down on a
monitor, or the LAN staff may have changed your PC's configuration without your
knowledge (or approval), or an installation program may have corrupted something in
your software. Look for recent changes in your system's operation. You may need to run
an uninstaller program to remedy software-related problems.
9. Isolate the problem to one piece of hardware, or one software package: The problem
you are encountering may occur only in one software package, which means the problem
has a very limited scope. If the problem occurs in all programs, then it's a systemic
problem. Refer to software and operating system manuals as needed, and have the
original software disks available, in case a driver needs to be loaded. If the system just
won't fire up, remove all non-essential components, and see if you can cause the problem
to re-appear by re-installing.

SOFTWARE TROUBLESHOOTING

DIAGNOSTIC SOFTWARE

No matter how well built your PC is and how well written its software something is
eventually going to go wrong and you might not have support system available to resolve the
problem. Diagnostic software ca be important to you anytime your computer malfunctions or
you are the process of upgrading a system component or especially building entire new
system from scratch.

Several types of diagnostic software are available for PC. diagnostic software is integrated into
the PC hardware or into peripheral device, such as expansion card, where as other take the
form of opera system utilities or separate software product. This software is included as part
of the system when purchased, assists users in identifying many problems that can occur with
a computer component.

29
TYPES OF DIAGNOSTIC SOFTWARE

1. Manufacturer supplied diagnostic software: - Many of the large manufactures such as

IBM, Compaq make special diagnostic for their systems. This software thoroughly
examines the system. Some cases, this software is included with the system or you can
download this software from manufacturer online services at no charge otherwise, you
might have to purchase them.
2. Peripheral diagnostic software: - Many devices come with specialized diagnostics software
designed to test their particular functions for example, sound card normally includes a
diagnostic software on a disk along with the drivers which test and verify all the card
functions.
3. Operating system diagnostic software: -Operating system such as window 9x/Me and
window NT/2000/XP, include a variety of diagnostic software utilities designed to identify
and monitor the performance of various component in the computer.

OPERATING SYSTEM DIAGNOSTIC SOFTWARE

These utilities help you to keep your system running, configure options and perform
systems maintenance. It is important that you understand how and when to use them when
you are supporting computer in the field. Some of the available diagnostic software in
window operating system are:
1. Disk Defragmenter: Defrag program is a utility that improvers disk drive performance.
Overtime, disk files tend to get spread over the disk, which causes file access to take
longer. Disk defragmenter more files around and sets them up so that they are no longer
fragmented. It is a good idea to run disk defragmenter on a regular basis. Typically, you
should defrag drive once a month.
2. FDISK: It is the primary tool for creating disk partitions on windon9x systems. FDISK is not a
supported utility under window 2000.1and newer windows. To partition a disk under 2000,
XP and newer Operating System use Disk management under computer management.
3. SCAN DISKS: - Is a disk utility that can check the integrity of a disk on a window 9x or DOS
system. SCAN Disk is not shipped with windowNT,2000 or XP but there are third-party
vendors that sell SCANDISK utilities for these operating systems.
4. Disk Cleanup: - Is a program to identify and remove temporary files from a system. Disk
cleanup can help you recover space on the drive by deleting temporary files.
5. FORMAT: -The format program initialized media such as hard disks and floppy disk. The
syntax for FORMAT is very simple. To format the A: floppy disk you type; Format a: This
creates a FAT structure on the disk.
6. Backup and Restore: -This utility allows you to save large amount of data on floppy disk or
other storage media.

SOME GOOD MANUFACTURER SUPPLY DIAGNOSTIC SOFTWARE

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1. Norton Utilities: Analyzes and reports on computer’s main systems; can repair/recover lost
data from hard & floppy disks.
2. Spinrite: Analyzes and repairs media of hard disks; EXCELLENTPRODUCT.
3. Speedstor or Disk Manager: Prepares hard disk initially for use; re-formats disk when used,
so use only when needed.
4. IBM, Compaq, or that brand's own diagnostics: Most companies provide diagnostic
software designed for their own hardware; usually comes with their version of DOS.
5. AMI or Award ROM BIOS: Newer computers configuration information at boot-up; COPY
THIS INFORMATION FOR REFERENCE IN CASE PROGRAM GETS CORRUPTED. The
information is held in the computer's RAM-BIOS chip, powered by a battery. If the battery
dies, the information will be lost.
6. Checkit Pro: Checks all components in the PC, identifies problems, and it has a very good
low-level disk formatting utility.
7. MSD: A program available in MS-DOS 6.0,6.2, and Windows 3.1that tells you what's "under
the hood". Useful for identifying misconfigured equipment.
8. MicroScope 2000: Excellent diagnostic program. Also comes with a POST card, which
allows testing of dead or intermittent PCs. It is expensive.
9. QAPlus Pro: Excellent diagnostic program. Used by many PC manufacturers and authorized
repair facilities. DiagSoft, the manufacturer, provides significant discounts to students in PC
repair courses; see the instructor for details.

NORTON UTILITIES BASICS

1. Speed Disk: Goes through your hard disk and finds the fragmented) b5lative to of pieces of
files throughout your hard disk, and reorders them so that ALL of your files are in one
piece. It's called a de-fragmenting program, or "defragger" for short. You should run this on
a busy PC every 6 months or so; fragmented files take longer to retrieve, and a badly
fragmented hard disk slows your PC down.
2. UnErase: Just like the DOS 5/DOS 6 utility, this program goes out and finds deleted
filenames in your file allocation table (FAT); these filenames have the first letter erased
from the filename. As long as the space where that file's data has not been overwritten
with other data, you can successfully undelete your erased files.
3. UnFormat: Like the above, and like DOS 5/DOS 6, this program allows you to undo
accidental re-formatting of a floppy or hard disk. If you are using DOS 5, or the Norton
Image program, UnFormat finds the saved copy of the FAT, and restores it as the primary
FAT, and almost like magic your files re-appear. This program is not 100%foolproof, so

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 make sure you are using DOS 5 or the Norton Image program, which saves an extra copy of
your FAT in a safe location.
4. SysInfo: Gives a host of information about your system, but it doesn’t test your system per
se, like Checkit does. Tells about your components, their speed (relative to other
benchmarked PCs), and shows the contents of your CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files.
5. WipeInfo: Erases files, AND overwrites the space where your file was on the disk with
random data. It can do the same to your whole disk, floppy or hard disk.
6. FileFind: Looks through your hard disk for: a file you specify. Great for finding lost or
duplicate files.
7. NDD: Stands for Norton Disk Doctor; allows you to repair defects on a floppy or hard disk.
Let’s you fix bad FATs and partition tables, check for bad sectors on the disk, and allows
you to recover lost clusters (files with no end-of-file markers).
8. Disk Tool: Lets you make bootable floppy disks easily, revive defective floppy disks, and
lets you create a "rescue disk" that will get you going if your hard disk crashes.
9. Calibrate: Lets you evaluate and, if necessary, change the low-level format characteristics
of your hard disk. Lets you change interleave on-the-fly, without losing your data. DOES
NOT WORK on many IDE drives.

SPINRITE BASICS

Spinrite is a program that lets you re-format your hard disk, section by section,
without losing any existing data on the disk. The program refreshes the low-level and high-
level format characteristics of the disk, then tests the surface of the disk platters to ensure
that data can be safely placed on the disk, then restores your data to the disk. Any spots on
the disk surface that fail the testing routine are marked as bad, and any data that used to
reside on that location is safely relocated to another spot on the disk.

Spinrite lets you do the following things:

a) Quick Surface Scan: Checks the System RAM, disk controller, partition table, then checks
the physical surface of the disk for defects. Reports on known and new surface defects.
b) Spinrite analysis: Checks the System RAM, disk controller, partition table, then it checks
the stepper motor and head positioned, the rotational speed, the sector interleaves.
c) (determining if the current interleave is optimum or not), then allows you to perform a
"destructive/re-constructive" low-level format on your MFM and/or RLL hard disk. This
process can take several hours to perform, depending on the size of your disk and the
amount of work it has to perform to repair your disk. If it finds a physical defect that
cannot be repaired, Spinrite will flag the controller and DOS and tell them NOT to write
anything to this portion of the disk. It will repair most defects it finds, however, and return

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 that diskspace back to normal use. Spinrite also gives you a file called SPINRITE.LOG which
tells you all of what Spinrite found on your disk, or did to your disk.

STEPS TO BRINGING A NEW PC TO LIFE

1. Mount the motherboard and apply power first: When installing the motherboard to the
case, use the proper guidelines for mounting the motherboard to the chassis. Then, attach
the power supply connections and the PC speaker ONLY: no RAM, no video carded. Power
the system up and listen for 3 low-toned beeps. If you hear these beeps, the motherboard
is OK (it powers up and finds the CPU). If you hear no beeps, check your power and speaker
connections, ensure the CPU is installed OK, and make sure the board is not grounding out.
If this does not resolve the problem, replace the motherboard.
2. Then, install the memory: Install the memory to the motherboard; be sure to put it in the
right SIMM sockets (look for the designation "BANK 0"). You may need to set some jumpers
on the board to get the memory to be recognized properly; also, many boards require more
than one SIMM on the board at a time. Once you install the memory, power up the system
and listen for a different set of beeps (usually 2 high short beeps and 7 or &lower-toned
short beeps). These beeps are telling you that the video card cannot be found (mainly
because it hasn't been installed yet!). If you get such a beep sequence, you can continue
and install the video card. If you still get the three low beeps as before, check and re-install
the memory. If the memory is installed correctly and you continue to get only the three low
beeps, replace the memory.
3. Then, install the video card and monitor: When you have the motherboard and memory
installed correctly, then you can install the video card into the system and attach a monitor.
When properly installed, you should be able to see the computer going through POST on
the screen. If not, then you may have a problem with the video card (check for 1 long and 3
short beeps) or the monitor. If the system hangs after installing the video card, the video
card is probably defective, or not installed correctly. If you see no video on the screen after
checking the video card, then either the monitor is off (or without power), or the monitor is
defective.
4. Then, install the drives and drive controllers: Once you have motherboard, RAM, and video
installed properly, attach the drives to the drive controller/interface. Be sure to get the
cable stripes attached next to pin 1 on the interface connectors. Also, be sure to attach
power cables to the drives. You may now also install the keyboard.
5. Then, power up and run the CMOS Setup program on the BIOS: When the drives are fully
connected, then run the Setup program. Watch the screen to tell you what keystrokes to
use in order to enter the Setup program. Use the "Auto-detect" feature to detect the IDE-

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 class hard drive(s) in your system. If the auto-detect feature does NOT find the hard
drive(s), then power down and re-check your connections. If the c imputer still cannot find
the hard drives (or floppy drives), then either your cables are bad, the controller bad, the
power to the drives is bad, or the drives themselves are bad. If the drives are recognized by
the auto-detect feature, save the setup information and reboot. You can now begin loading
DOS onto the PC, and begin software loading as well. Let the instructor know if you have
any questions about this procedure.

HOW DO VIRUSES AFFECT YOUR PCs?

1. The Boot Sector: The boot sector is where your operating system files reside on your
floppy or hard disk. A virus will go to that location on your disk and corrupt these files
(IO.SYS, MSDOS.SYS, and COMMAND.COM) so that your PC will NOT boot up as expected.
EXAMPLE: the STONED virus.
2. The File Allocation Table: The File Allocation Table (FAT) is a list of all the files on your
floppy or hard disk, and where the files are physically located on the disk. A virus will
corrupt the FAT so that you cannot locate or access your files. EXAMPLE: the CASCADE
virus.
3. The Partition Table: The partition table on your HARD DISK tells MS-DOS how big your
hard disk is, and what percentage of it is used by MS-DOS. A virus can corrupt your
partition table, which wipes out ALL of your files in an instant. EXAMPLE: the
MICHELANGELO virus.
4. .COM and .EXE Files: Files with these extensions are EXECUTABLE files, which perform a
specific action. A virus can attach itself to one of these kinds of files and corrupt the way it
operates. EXAMPLE: the 4096 viruses.

THREE (3) THINGS A GOOD VIRUS PROTECTION PROGRAM SHOULD DO

1. SCAN for viruses: A good program should be able to check your floppy and hard disks for
viruses, as well as the RAM of your computer, and detect the presence of a virus in
the4locationsmentioned above.
2. CLEAN up the virus: A good program must be able to get rid of the virus it finds in any of
the 4 places mentioned above; otherwise, it’s useless.
3. PROTECT YOU from viruses: A good program must have the ability to load a piece of the
program into memory at boot-up time, to protect you from getting a virus in the first
place. This type of program called a "Terminate-and-Stay-Resident" (TSR) program.

A good Anti-virus programs include McAfee's SCAN, Avast, Kaspersky, Norton, F-Prot and
others. Both of these are shareware programs, and are available from the instructor upon
request.

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