Troubleshooting computer system network  After service, reinstall all safety shields, guards, labels, and

Causes of Network Trouble ground wires. Replace any safety device that is worn out or
If a computer is unable to connect to a network or see other defective.
computers on a network, it may be necessary to troubleshoot  Finally, reinstall all covers correctly before returning the
the network. A network may not work because of any of the unit to the customers.
reasons below.
1. Network card not properly connected.
2. Bad network card drivers or software settings. Electrical safety
3. Firewall preventing computers from seeing each other. Precautions
4. Connection related issues. Disconnect all power before:
5. Bad network hardware.  Performing a mechanical inspection
 Working near power supplies
Solution  Removing or installing main units
Before starting work on the machine, unplug the power
Verify connections / LEDs cord.
Verify that the network cable is properly connected to the back Never assume that power has been disconnected from a
of the computer. In addition, when checking the connection of circuit. First, check that it has been powered-off.
the network cable, ensure that the LEDs on the network are Always look carefully for possible hazards in your work
properly illuminated.  Moist floors
 Non-grounded power extension cables
 Power surges.
Adapter resources
 If an electrical accident occurs:
Ensure that if this is a new network card being installed into the
computer that the card's resources are properly set and not  Switch off power
conflicting with any hardware in the computer.  Send another person to get medical aid
Adapter functionality
Verify that the network card is capable of detecting or seeing Replacing different Components
itself by using the ping command. Windows / MS-DOS users
ping the computer from a MS-DOS prompt. Unix / Linux variant Computer Parts Replacement
users ping the computer from the shell. When replacing computer parts and peripherals, you need to
consider the following factors:
Protocol 1. Compatibility of the component or part
Verify that the correct protocols are installed on the computer. 2. Consider the component specification
Most networks today will utilize TCP/IP, but may also utilize or 3. Components form factor
require IPX/SPX and NetBEUI.
Compatibility of the Component
When replacing computer parts you should check if it is
Firewall compatible with your unit. Double check on your computer
If your computer network utilizes a firewall, ensure that all ports manual if the component you are replacing is compatible or not
required are open. If possible, close the firewall software with the unit because this may lead to system crash.
program or disconnect the computer from the firewall to ensure
it is not causing the problem. Component Specification
This focuses on the specification of the component. Check if the
voltage rating, current rating, memory size and frequency
Additional time matches your computer unit.
In some cases it may take a computer some additional time to
detect or see the network. If after booting the computer you are Form factor
unable to see the network, give the computer 2-3 minutes to The components’ manufacturer should be considered. Check if
detect the network. the unit you are trying to repair or upgrade is generic or
branded units. Branded units have their own set of components
General Safety Tips and Reminders compatible only to their units, while genetic types can be used
only to generic type of units.
 Observe good housekeeping in the area of the machines
during and after maintenance. List of Components Commonly Replaced in a Computer System
 Place removed covers and other parts in a safe place, away
from all personnel, while you are servicing the machine.
 Memory-is technically any form of electronic storage; it is
used most often to identify fast, temporary forms of
Dress for the Job storage. It is commonly called RAM (Random Access
 Keep your tool case away from walk areas so that other Memory).
people will not trip over it.  Video Cards-also referred to as a graphics accelerator, is an
 Do not wear loose clothing that can be trapped in the item of personal computer hardware whose function is to
moving parts of a machine. Ensure that your sleeves are generate and output images to a display.
fastened or rolled up above your elbows. If your hair is  Network Interface Card – is also known as LAN card. A PC
long, use hair net or hair cap. interface to network cabling. It is a piece of computer
 Insert the ends of your necktie or scarf inside clothing or hardware designed to allow computers to communicate
fasten it with a nonconductive clip, approximately three (3) over a computer network
inches from the end.  Hard disk drive – is a fixed computer storage medium
 Do not wear jewelry, chains, metal-frame eyeglasses, or  Motherboard – is also known as the mainboard. It contains
metal fasteners. circuits that perform various functions.
 Processor – is also known as CPU or the Central Processing
unit
 CMOS Battery-Refers to a small memory on PC
motherboards that is used to store BIOS settings.
 CD/DVD Drive- A DVD is an optical disc storage media
format, invented and developed by Philips, Sony, Toshiba
and Panasonic in 1995
 Sound card - is an internal computer expansion card that
facilitates the input and output of audio signals