Computer Systems CT 122

2nd Semester, A.Y. 2022 – 2023

Projects

Project02. Common Problems with Common Solutions

Instructions:
1. Use the internet to gather data on common problems with common solutions of the following:
a. Computer case
b. Power Supply Unit (PSU)
c. Motherboard
d. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
e. Random Access Memory (RAM)
f. Storage device (HDD)
g. Storage device (SSD)
h. Storage device (ODD)
i. Expansion card (Video card)
j. Expansion card (LAN card)
k. Expansion card (Sound card)
l. Display (Monitor)
m. Keyboard
n. Mouse
o. System Unit (PC)
p. Computer cooling
q. OS installation
2. Gather data as much as you can. Use the template provided below.

COMMON PROBLEMS COMMON SOLUTIONS

 Computer Case

1. Blue Screens 1. Description of the solution

The most terrifying of computer problems is the dreaded Steps taken:
blue screen of death. This term refers to the blue error Step 1: You should let the system turn off
screen that appears when your computer has a critical and try to reboot on its own. Modern
failure of some kind. Blue screens can result in data loss computers have functions and features
or worse and need to be addressed immediately. that will automatically attempt to repair
these issues.

Step 2: Wait until it will restart the

computer and it could fix random blue
screens.

Step 3: When automatic tools fail to

work, there are other solutions you can
attempt.

Step 4: You can use an operating system

installation tool to try and roll back
updates or run more advanced repair
tools without the risk of further
damaging hardware.

Step 5: The last thing you could try would

be to reinstall the operating system on
the PC.

Step 6: Just remember you need to be

incredibly careful when doing this
because you could lose all of your data
without the proper backups in place.

2. Audio Issues 2. Description of the solution

Virtual meetings have become standard these days, Steps taken:
and so have a host of audio issues that can make Step 1: When dealing with sound issues,
using your PC unbearable. Microphones can get it is always best practice to check these
accidentally muted, or audio sources can switch functions and buttons first. Accidental
within different programs. Hardware can fail, but it button or key presses can sometimes
mute audio sources in programs or your
is uncommon. More often than not, sound issues
entire PC audio.
can be resolved from within the operating system.
However, there are multiple ways to access and
Step 2: When all of your devices connect
change sound settings, so troubleshooting issues as intended, and you are still having
can be frustrating when waiting for a virtual audio issues, the next step is to check
meeting or video call to start. and see if your volume is low or muted
from within your operating system.

Step 3: If you are still experiencing audio

problems, the last thing you can check is
your playback sources.

Step 4: By right clicking your speaker

icon, you can bring up your audio
settings, which will show you a list of
available audio devices.

Step 5:You can then test each one with

the press of a button and ensure the
proper device is selected for your PC.

Step 6: Unfortunately, if none of these

software fixes worked, it could be a
hardware issue.

Step 7: If your PC's generic audio driver

(found within the 3.5mm headphone
jack) isn't working or isn't compatible
with some of the features of your
headphones, you can look for a USB
 headset — the USB connection will work
around any issues with the driver and
often fixes any software compatibility
issues with the headset.

3. PC Will Not Turn On 3. Description of the solution

It can be terrifying to press the power button on your Steps taken:
computer and nothing happens. Power outages, Step 1 Check Your Cables
fortunately, do not necessarily indicate that the PC as a The most important details are that the
whole is broken or that data has been lost. There are wall outlet is active, any surge protector
many reasons why laptops and desktops can't turn on. or power strip is correctly plugged into
Sometimes just a peripheral, like an external monitor, the outlet, the PC power cable is properly
can be the cause of problems that prevent the PC from plugged into the power supply and
turning on at all. Do not panic if you press the power outlet, and the PC power cable is
button to start your computer and nothing happens. properly plugged into the power supply
Make sure to give the PC a second to turn on prior to and outlet. Finally, the cabling inside the
squeezing the power or reset button again completely. case should be tested.
Try some of the quick fixes below if your problems
persist! Step 2 Internal Wiring
getting your case open, you’ll want to
check all the connections from your
power supply to the components in your
PC, see if any are loose, and then reseat
them if they are. If you have a modular
PSU (a power supply where you choose
the cables you want to use), also be sure
to double-check that the cables are
properly seated on the PSU side as well.
After ensuring nothing is loose on either
side, see if your PC powers on.

Step 3 Power Button

-Locate the two power switch headers on

your motherboard. These small headers
are often labeled something like
PWR_SW, with + and - symbols. If the
power button from your case is already
wired to these headers, you’ll need to
remove those cables.
-Make sure the 4/8 CPU and 24-pin
motherboard power cables are
connected and that the PSU is switched
on and supplying power.
-Lightly touch a metal screwdriver to the
two power switch header pins, and the
system will turn on if everything is
connected correctly.

Step 4: Test Your Components

If your computer still isn’t turning on, it
might be time to start testing each piece
of hardware individually. This is a little
different than testing all of the power
cables, as we did earlier. That process
allowed us to rule out faulty wires from
the power supply. Now, we'll check the
connections to the motherboard and
ensure that all hardware is properly
communicating with the rest of the
system.

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

1. The computer will not turn on 1. Description of the solution

Steps taken:
The computer is not plugged in to the AC outlet. ● Plug the computer into a known
The AC outlet is faulty.
The power cord is faulty. good AC outlet.
The power supply switch is not turned on. ● Use a known good power cord.
The power supply switch is set to the incorrect voltage.
 The power button is not connected correctly to the front ● Turn on the power supply switch.
panel connector.
The power supply has failed.
● Set the power supply switch to
the correct voltage setting.
● Correctly orient the power
button to the front case panel
connector and reconnect.
● Install a known good power
supply.

2. The computer reboots, turns off unexpectedly; or 2. Description of the solution

there is smoke or the smell of burning electronics. Steps taken:
● Replace the power supply.

Motherboard

1. Overheating 1. Description of the solution

Overheating is a common problem that will cause your Steps taken:
computer to run slowly, freeze, or crash frequently. In Step 1: Start off by powering off the
the worst cases, an overheated motherboard or other computer and allowing it to cool.
related components will have to be replaced entirely.
Step 2: Turn off demanding
applications, which will reduce the
computing power required to run the
device.

Step 3: Placing the computer on a hard

and flat surface with lots of space
around it will also promote airflow, as
opposed to placing the computer on
carpet or inside a cabinet.

Step 4: If the problem persists, try using

a blower to clean the computer of dust
and dirt, which can trap heat inside
your computer.

Step 5: For optimal performance,

perform internal cleaning every six
months to promote airflow.

Step 6: Attaching an external cooling

system to your computer case in order
to blow cold air inside can also help
prevent your PC from overheating.

2. Incorrectly installed components 2. Description of the solution

The motherboard is connected to many other Steps taken:
components, such as the video card, processor, and Step 1: You can give the video card a
RAM. If improperly installed, they can cause issues. push down to ensure it’s secure in its
Maybe the computer boots up but there is no picture or slot.
video. In some cases, your computer may even fail to
power on. Step 2: Check that there are no bent
pins in the card or the socket.

Step 3: Again, check that all the power

cables are securely connected to both
the video card and the motherboard.

Step 4: Your RAM sticks should be

sitting securely in their slots with the
wings fastened securely over each side.

Step 5: Processors are a bit more

delicate. Check that yours is lined up
correctly with the motherboard.

3. No video 3. Description of the solution

The computer boots up fine but I don’t see any Steps taken:
picture/video even after trying different monitors/cables Step 1: First, make sure all connections
(can hear fans spinning etc.) are secure.

Step 2: Check the video card to ensure

it is properly plugged into the
motherboard, and that there are no
bent pins on either the card or the
socket itself.

Step 3: Check that all power cables are

securely connected to both the video
card and motherboard.

Step 4: If this does not fix the problem,

you may need to replace your video
card.

Step 5: If neither of these work, then

there may be an issue with either your
RAM or power supply.

4. I get a black screen when powering on my computer 4. Description of the solution

Steps taken:
Step 1: Your first step should be to
make sure your video cable is securely
attached to both your monitor and
video card/onboard graphics adapter (if
applicable).

Step 2: Your next step should be to re-

seat (plug and unplug several times)
your video cable into your video card. If
this does not work, try booting up the
computer with just one stick of RAM in
it.

Step 3: If you are still getting a black

screen, power-cycle the monitor
several times. If none of these steps
have fixed the problem, then there may
be an issue with either your
motherboard or power supply.

5. My computer has trouble waking from sleep 5. Description of the solution

mode/turning on after sleeping Steps taken:
This is a common problem for laptops but can also affect Step 1: If your computer is having trouble
desktop computers as well. There are multiple ways of
trying to fix this depending on what exactly the problem turning on after sleeping, try restarting it
is. and then constantly tapping the power
button. Sometimes this can jar
something back into place and get you
booting up properly again.

Step 2: Turn off hybrid sleep mode in

Windows if you’re using a laptop. This
puts your computer into a deep sleep
state, which can cause problems when
trying to turn your computer back on.
Also be sure that you aren’t running any
software that puts your PC to sleep
automatically, such as an energy saving
program. And lastly, make sure you don’t
 have hibernation enabled in BIOS!

Step 3: If none of these work or apply to

you, go through all of your device drivers
and temporarily disable them one by
one. Find the culprits and you’ll almost
certainly find that your computer works
just fine without them.

Step 4: Resetting your BIOS to its default

settings may also help, but only do this as
a last resort! Hardware problems related
to powering on can often be fixed by
resetting the CMOS (Complementary
metal-oxide-semiconductor), which is
usually done with a jumper pin or button
on the motherboard itself. If this doesn’t
work, it’s probably time to look into
getting your motherboard fixed or
replaced.

Step 5: If everything else fails, however,

you will probably need to replace your
motherboard (or at least its power
management system).
Replacing/repairing motherboards is an
expensive time consuming though.

Step 6: Most of the time, it’s best to take

your motherboard to an expert for
repairs. Try to only troubleshoot the
problem yourself as a last resort.
However, you can usually fix simple
problems like power issues on your own
with little difficulty.

6. My computer doesn’t read any audio/video files 6. Description of the solution

Steps taken:
Step 1: If you are sure that all cables are
firmly connected to both devices and
that there is no debris preventing
proper connections, then you should re-
seat (plug and unplug several times) any
audio/video cables, including network
cables if applicable.

Step 2: You need to make sure your

audio device is set as the default device.
 Step 3: This can usually be done by
right-clicking the sound icon on your
system tray and selecting “playback
devices”.

Step 4: From there, check that your

default device is not muted or set to an
alternative audio source.

Step 5: If this is still not working after

all of these steps, then most likely you
need to re-install the application
(sound/video codecs).

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

1. After upgrading from a single core CPU to a dual core CPU, 1. Description of the solution
the computer runs more slowly and only shows one CPU graph Steps taken:
in the Task Manager. Step 1: Update the BIOS firmware to support
the dual core CPU.
The BIOS does not recognize the dual core CPU.

2. The CPU is failing. 2. CPU Troubleshooting. In one sense,

there's not much troubleshooting to be
done for a processor. ...
● Keep an eye on processor
temperature. ...
● Keep the system clean. ...
● Use a good CPU cooler. ...
● Install supplemental case fans. ...
● Upgrade the case. ...
● Position the system properly.

3.The CPU is overheated. 3. Close Programs with High CPU

Usage. ...
● Improve Airflow. ....
● Inspect the Fans and Vents. …
● Clean it if has a dust on the
heatsink..
● Check CPU's Heatsink and
Reapply Thermal Paste. ...
● Scan for Malware. ...
● Adjust the Power Option. ...
● Stop Overclocking the CPU. ...
● Check for Updates.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

1. Randomly restarts with no apparent reason or 1. Description of the solution

prompt messages on your screen. It also includes Steps taken:
immediate reboots after turning on your computer for Step 1: Download & Install the ASO
the first time after a few hours of the shutdown. from the link provided below.
Step 2: Launch the software and
click on Windows Optimizers in the
left panel of the app interface.
Step 3: Now click on the Memory
Optimizer option in the right panel.

Step 4: A new window will open

and will display your Memory
status.

Step 5: Click on the Optimize Now

button in the right corner of the
app window.
Or
Clean the golden part of the RAM it
might be had some black spots on it
 You can rub it an clean eraser to
clean the black spots so you can try
it on it may fix the problem.

2. After upgrading Windows, the computer runs very 2. Description of the solution
slowly. Steps taken:
Step 1: Install additional RAM.
The computer does not have enough RAM.
Step 2: Install a video card that has more
The video card does not have enough memory.
memory.

3. The computer does not recognize the RAM that was 3. Description of the solution
added. Steps taken:
Step 1: Replace the RAM.
The new RAM is faulty.
Step 2: Install the correct type of RAM.
The incorrect type of RAM was installed.
The new RAM is loose in the memory slot. Step 3: Secure the RAM in the memory
slot.

4. A computer with both DDR2 and DDR3 RAM installed 4. Description of the solution
only recognizes DDR3 RAM. Steps taken:
Step 1: Check the motherboard manual
The motherboard does not support the installation of to see if the computer will support both
both DDR2 and DDR3 RAM. types of RAM simultaneously.

Storage Device (HDD)

1. Corrupted Files 1. Description of the solution

Files can become corrupt by not correctly shutting down Steps taken:
your computer, power surges, using malware-infected Step 1: You can try to repair corrupt files
programs, or accidentally closing programs while they are on your hard drive in the Command
running. Prompt Window of your computer.
Corrupted files not only can cause you to loose data, but
they can prevent your from accessing parts of your data Step 2: To do this, click the “Start” button
and parts your computer entirely. then type cmd.

Step 3: A black window will pop up, and

you should try entering the code chkdsk
g:/f then press “Enter”.

Step 4:If this does not work, try to

recover your corrupt or lost data during
an external hard drive or a USB.

Step 5: To repair the hard drive itself, try

using a hard drive recovery software that
you can download and install on your PC
or Mac or seek the help of a professional
data recovery service.

2.Hard Drive not Found 2. Description of the solution

Steps taken:
Perform a hard reset.
● Run a hardware diagnostic test.
● Disconnect external devices.
● Update the BIOS and drivers.
● Repair the missing or corrupted
Windows system files.
● Restore the computer using
Windows System Restore.
 ● Restore the computer to factory
default settings.

3. Strange noises 3. Description of the solution

Steps taken:

● If you hear a grinding or

scratching sound coming from
the drive, depending on severity,
it can mean that continued use
will cause physical damage to the
disk’s platters and there is a risk
to the data. Consider contacting
Data Recovery Services for best
next steps.

● While all spinning drives will

cause a modicum of vibration, a
faulty drive can experience
exaggerated and abnormal
vibrations. Compare multiple
drives when possible to establish
a normal vibration baseline.
Listen for irregularities in the
vibrations as well. A healthy
drive emits mild and regular
sounds of whirring.

● Mentioned above, a solitary hard

clicking sound can mean the
heads are getting parked. But if a
hard clicking persists or is
accompanied by any kind of
repeating clunking (or grinding)
sound, then there is likely a
physical issue with the drive.
When possible, compare to other
drives known to be healthy.

● If an external HDD has its own

power supply, as mentioned
earlier, it’s normal to hear a
slight humming coming from it. If
the humming is pronounced, or
you can hear occasional crackles
coming from it, it’s possible the
power supply is no longer
supplying enough power to the
drive. Another hint is that the
drive no longer spins up (doesn’t
whir or vibrate), and some
models will also emit an
intermittent but regular beep.

● External Hard drives will only

beep if they’re experiencing an
issue. In most cases, a single
intermittent beep means the
drive isn’t getting enough power.
If it has its own power supply,
test with another supply which is
compatible. If the device is
powered by USB, or another
interface, test with a different
cable, a different port, or on
another computer as it might
mean the interface cable is
faulty. For other kinds of beeps
and their meanings, check the
specific drive model’s User
Guide.
4. Virus Or Malware 4. Description of the solution
So a virus has infected your computer. Steps taken:
Don’t open links or emails if you don’t know where Step 1: Clean your computer and use
they’re from or if you’re not sure of the credibility of the anti-virus and anti-malware programs.
source. Same principle applies to item you download. You can use anti-virus and security
Symptoms of virus issues can be things like strange pop programs such as McAfee Antivirus,
ups, your internet tabs or links being redirected at Norton Security, HitMan Pro, and many
random, digital lags, glitches, or freezing, or even total others.
shut down of your computer.
Step 2: Use a firewall and an ad
blockers to prevent pop-ups and other
fishing and infected sites from
accessing your computer or coming up
in your search results.

Step 3: Use common sense with your

internet searches. Vising less-than-
reputable sites or downloading sketchy
content can open your computer up to
virus and malware that could have
otherwise been avoided.

Storage Device (SSD)

1. Corrupted Files 1. Description of the solution

Files can become corrupt by not correctly shutting down Steps taken:
your computer, power surges, using malware-infected Step 1: You can try to repair corrupt files
programs, or accidentally closing programs while they are on your hard drive in the Command
running. Prompt Window of your computer.
Corrupted files not only can cause you to loose data, but
they can prevent your from accessing parts of your data Step 2: To do this, click the “Start” button
and parts your computer entirely. then type cmd.

Step 3: A black window will pop up, and

you should try entering the code chkdsk
g:/f then press “Enter”.

Step 4:If this does not work, try to

recover your corrupt or lost data during
an external hard drive or a USB.

Step 5: To repair the hard drive itself, try

using a hard drive recovery software that
you can download and install on your PC
or Mac or seek the help of a professional
data recovery service.

2. VIRUS OR MALWARE 2. Description of the solution

So a virus has infected your computer. Steps taken:
Don’t open links or emails if you don’t know where Step 1: Clean your computer and use
they’re from or if you’re not sure of the credibility of the anti-virus and anti-malware programs.
source. Same principle applies to item you download. You can use anti-virus and security
Symptoms of virus issues can be things like strange pop programs such as McAfee Antivirus,
ups, your internet tabs or links being redirected at Norton Security, HitMan Pro, and many
random, digital lags, glitches, or freezing, or even total others.
shut down of your computer.
Step 2: Use a firewall and an ad
blockers to prevent pop-ups and other
fishing and infected sites from
accessing your computer or coming up
in your search results.

Step 3: Use common sense with your

internet searches. Vising less-than-
reputable sites or downloading sketchy
content can open your computer up to
 virus and malware that could have
otherwise been avoided.

3. Hard Drive not Found 3. Description of the solution

Steps taken:
Perform a hard reset.
● Run a hardware diagnostic test.
● Disconnect external devices.
● Update the BIOS and drivers.
● Repair the missing or corrupted
Windows system files.
● Restore the computer using
Windows System Restore.
● Restore the computer to factory
default settings.

Storage Device (ODD)

1. The Optical disk drive will not read media or the drive light 1. Description of the solution
stays on constantly.
Steps taken:
Step 1:Secure the power cable or the data
cable to the drive and the motherboard.
Step 2:Correctly connect the data cable.
Step 3:Reset the FDD settings in BIOS.
Step 4:Try another disc or format the disc.
Step 5:Re-insert the disc correctly.

2. The computer will not eject the optical disc. 2. Description of the solution
Steps taken:
Restart your computer and tap the F2
key while it is restarting.
1. Once you are in the SystemBIOS
screen, press the Eject button of
your CD/DVD/Blu-ray drive. For
instructions on where to find the
Eject button on your computer.
2. If the tray eject is successful
within the System BIOS, restart
the computer and boot into the
Operating System.
If eject does not work within the
Operating System, go to the next
troubleshooting step.
3. If the tray eject is unsuccessful
within the System BIOS.

Expansion Card (Video card)

1. Compatibility issues with the motherboard 1. Description of the solution

This can happen when the expansion card requires a Steps taken:
certain type of slot or bus that is not available on the Step 1: To research and ensure
motherboard, or when the motherboard does not compatibility before purchasing the
support the required power supply for the card. expansion card. This can involve
checking the motherboard
specifications to ensure that it has
the necessary slot or bus, and
checking the power requirements
of the card to ensure that the
motherboard can supply enough
power.

2. Overheating 2. Description of the solution

This can happen when the card is under heavy load or Steps taken:
when it is installed in a poorly ventilated case. Step 1: To improve the case's cooling
system by adding more fans or upgrading
to a better case with improved airflow.
Additionally, some video cards come
 with their own cooling systems, such as
fans or liquid cooling, which can help to
prevent overheating.

Expansion Card (LAN card)

1. Troubleshoot Network Adapter Problems Through 1. Description of the solution

Software Steps 1. Reinstall network adapter
drivers.
After ruling the hardware part out of network adapter Just like the way we use in the above
issues, it’s time for us to troubleshoot the software part. part, enter the Device Manager box and
expand the Network Adapters section
in Device Manager. Then right-click the
name of the Network Adapter and
select Uninstall. After confirming Device
Uninstall by clicking OK, the driver will
be rebooted to reinstall.

Step 2 Update the network drivers

From a computer that has Internet
access, check the official software
website for network drivers for your
product or ask the customer service for
help. If one is available, download and
install the latest update for your
network hardware.

Step 3 Change or update your device

system
Sometimes, the network adapter not
working may be caused by the device
system. You can try to reinstall your
windows system or update to a new
version (if there is a newer version than
yours).

2. LAN card not detected by the computer. 2. Description of the solution

Steps taken:

Step 1. Check that the LAN card is

properly seated in the expansion slot.
Sometimes, the card can become loose
and lose connection with the
motherboard.

Step 2. Make sure that the LAN card is

enabled in the computer's BIOS. To
access the BIOS, restart the computer
and press the key specified during
startup (usually F2 or Delete). Look for a
setting related to LAN or Ethernet and
make sure it is enabled.

Step 3. Install the latest drivers for the

LAN card. Visit the manufacturer's
website and download the most recent
drivers for your specific model. Install
the drivers and restart the computer.
 Step 4. Check if the LAN card is listed in
the Device Manager. To access the
Device Manager, right-click on the
Windows Start menu and select "Device
Manager". Look under "Network
adapters" and see if the LAN card is
listed. If it is listed with an exclamation
mark or a red X, there may be an issue
with the driver or the card itself.

Expansion Card (Sound card)

1. Sound card problems are a result of improper, 1. Description of the solution

defective, or misconnected cables, incorrect drivers, or Steps taken:
resource conflicts. Step 1: Verify that all cables are
connected, that the speakers have
Sound card problems that occur with a previously power and are switched on, that the
functioning sound card when you have made no changes volume control is set to an audible
to the system are usually caused by cable problems or level, and so on. In particular, if the
operator error (such as accidentally turning the volume sound card has a volume wheel on the
control down).Sound card problems that occur when back, make sure it is set to an audible
you install a new sound card (or when you add or level. It’s often unclear which direction
reconfigure other system components) are usually increases volume, so we generally set
caused by resource conflicts or driver problems. the wheel to a middle position while
troubleshooting.

Step 2.Shut down and restart the

system. Surprisingly often, this solves
the problem.

Step 3.Determine the scope of the

problem. If the problem occurs with
only one program, visit the web sites
for Microsoft, the software company,
and the sound card maker to determine
if there is a known problem

2. No Sound from Sound Card 2. Description of the solution

Steps taken:
Step 1. Check the connections: Make
sure the sound card is properly seated
in the expansion slot and that all cables
are securely connected.

Step 2. Check the drivers: Ensure that

the sound card drivers are installed
correctly and up-to-date. You can check
this by going to the Device Manager
and checking for any issues with the
sound card.

Step 3. Check the volume: Make sure

the volume is turned up and not muted
in the sound settings.

Step 4. Check the speakers: Ensure that

the speakers are properly connected
and turned on. Test the speakers with
another device to make sure they are
working properly.

Step 5. Disable onboard sound: If you

have onboard sound enabled, try
disabling it in the BIOS to avoid conflicts
with the sound card.

Step 6. Test with different

speakers/headphones: If possible, test
 the sound card with different speakers
or headphones to ensure that the issue
is not with the speakers themselves.

If none of these solutions work, the

sound card may be faulty and may need
to be replaced.

Display (Monitor)

1. Constant Screen Flickering 1. Description of the solution

A constantly flickering or stuttering screen is usually Steps taken:
caused by display drivers. Step 1: Update it by starting the PC in
safe mode and uninstalling it currently
using the display adapter.

Step 2: Check for available updates and

install the required ones.

Step 3: Check the refresh rate setting in

the OS display setting. If it is incorrect,
apply the right hertz setting.

Step 4: tighten the cable on the

computer and the monitor. Also, secure
the power cables on both ends. There
can be more reasons for screen
flickering, and finding the right one is
important to fix it.

2. If your monitor keeps turning off periodically, there is 2. Description of the solution
a high chance that it might not be getting enough power Steps taken:
from the surge protector. Step 1: Examine the circuit breaker and
ensure the power cable is plugged in
Another reason could be an overheated internal or properly.
external power converter.
Step 2: If overheating of the power
adapter or monitor would be the cause,
replace them.

3. Black or Blank Display 3. Description of the solution

Sometimes, it happens that after turning on the PC, you Steps taken:
see the lights blinking, but the screen does not show Step 1: Hard reset your laptop or repair
anything. The laptop screen is completely blank. This or replace the motherboard.
generally happens because of a faulty motherboard.
Step 2: To hard reset, your system shuts
down and disconnects all connected
devices. Before repairing the
motherboard, back up all the data on
another drive so that you can restore it
easily in the event of failure or data
loss.

Keyboard

1. Keyboard is Not Responding 1. Description of the solution

Steps taken:
Step 1: Restart the computer,
sometimes this resolves the
problem. Look at the backside of
the system where the keyboard
plugs in. Make sure that the cable
connector is properly plugged into
the keyboard connector.

Step 2: Shutdown the computer,

remove the keyboard cable, and
check that pins are not bent or
broken. If you have another
keyboard, then replace the
previous keyboard.
 2. Accidental fall of liquid (coffee, tea or soda) on the 2. Description of the solution
keyboard Steps taken:
Step 1: If you have spilled water
onto the keyboard just let it dry.
You may use compressed air to dry
the area under the keys
(remember, too much heat can
damage the electrical components).

Step 2: You may use a hair dryer at

this point or just let it dry for 2
days. Ensure that the keyboard is
perfectly dry before you attempt to
use it again. Do not plug a wet
keyboard into the electrical
equipment.

Step 3: If the keyboard still does not

work, replace the keyboard.

Mouse

1. Mouse Cursor Frozen 1. Description of the solution

Mouse cursor just freeze and stops working. In the kind Steps taken:
of situations, the problem is usually cause by an Step 1: Try to close some
overworked computer rather than a faulty mouse. applications running in the
background of your computer.
Sometimes you might not even be
aware they are active.

Step 2: Try to reboot your

computer to see if it restores the
goog functioning of your mouse.
Sometimes closed applications
need the computer to be restarted
in order to fully stop using its
power.

2. Mouse Movement Too Fast Or Too Slow 2. Description of the solution

Steps taken:
Step 1: Go into the « Control Panel »,

Step 2: Choose « Hardware and Sound »,

Step 3: Select « Mouse Options »,

Step 4: Click on the « Pointer Options »

tab.

System Unit (PC)

1. Strange and loud BIOS Beep Codes – 1. Description of the solution

whenever you start the Windows computer it runs a test Steps taken:
Called POST And As a result, it will tell you all about
computer status in Beep codes. 1. Beep – Refresh Failure-
Reseat/replace memory, troubleshoot
motherboard.
Bios Beep codes are like media reporters who tell you all
about computer health . its a tool that will inform you
about diagnosing a report of your computer. 2. Beeps – Parity Error-

Reseat/replace memory, troubleshoot

motherboard.

3. Beeps – Memory Error (first 64KB)-

Reseat/replace memory.
 4. Beeps – Timer Failure-

Troubleshoot motherboard.

5. Beeps – Processor Failure-

Troubleshoot CPU, motherboard.

6. Beeps – Keyboard Controller Failure-

Troubleshoot keyboard, motherboard.

7. Beeps – Virtual Mode Exception Error-

Troubleshoot CPU, motherboard.

8. Beeps – Display Memory Failure-

Troubleshoot graphics card,

motherboard.

9. Beeps – ROM BIOS Checksum Failure-

Replace ROM BIOS, troubleshoot

motherboard.

10. Beeps – CMOS Shutdown Register

Failure-

Troubleshoot motherboard.

11. Beeps – L2 Cache Failure-

Troubleshoot L2 cache, motherboard.

2.Slow Internet 2. Description of the solution

Steps taken:
Step 1: To improve your Internet
browser performance, you need to
clear cookies and Internet temporary
files frequently. In the Windows search
bar, type ‘%temp%’ and hit enter to
open the temporary files folder.

3. My System Unit making weird sound 3. Description of the solution

Steps taken:
The fan is considered to be a cooling device plugged in
laptop or desktop. it keeps the temperature low you can Step 1: Use a blower to make sure its
dust free (blow the air inside the
process or other components don’t get burned out.
 computer while it’s powered off )

Step 2: Remove some startup programs

and unwanted programs to make sure
it’s not overheating.

Step 3: Apply some thermal paste on

C.P.U. it will cool down the computer.

Step 4: Check out the power settings. you

may want to adjust the power settings to
power saver mode.

Step 5: Please check the power supply

and voltage.

Step 6: After all, this goes to the local

technician if not solved.

4. PC isn’t powering on 4. Description of the solution

If your PC is not powering on at all – not even a single Steps taken:

light in it, then it must be a problem with the power
source. Desktop users: If your PC’s extension
cord, power outlet, and other
connections are working fine, then the
problem may be with the PC’s power
cable. Replace the power cable of the
monitor with the CPU’s (if you don’t
have a spare) to see if it turns on. You’ll
have to get a new power cable if this
fixes the problem.

Laptop users: Take out the battery and

put it back before starting the laptop. If
this doesn’t work, then take out the
battery again and connect the charging
cable to the laptop. Start the PC on
charger power and see if it works. You
will have to replace the battery if it fixes
the problem.

Note: You should also remove all types of

external devices connected to your PC
while trying this. A malfunctioning device
might cause this issue.

Computer cooling

1.The fan makes noises like a tractor. 1. Description of the solution

Steps taken:

Step 1: Clean Your CPU Fan. Dirty blades

can become unbalanced, making them
noisy over time.

Step 2: Tighten the CPU Blade Screws. A

CPU fan making clicking noise may be
caused by fan blades that aren't firmly
attached to the fan assembly.

Step 3: Examine the Fan Canopy.

Step 4: Add Oil to Your Fan.

 2. Computer Automatically Turns Off 2. Description of the solution
Steps taken:

Step 1: Check the PC's Power Connection

Step 2: Check the Computer's Ventilation

Step 3: Clean & Oil the PC's Fans

Step 4: Revert Windows to an Earlier

System Restore Point

Step 5: Check for Updates

Step 6: Reset Windows to its Original

State

OS Installation

1. The OS is missing. 1. Description of the solution

Steps taken:

Step 1: Set the active partition using the

diskpart tool from the System Recovery
Options

Step 2: Run Windows Startup Repair.

2. A device did not start when the computer booted. 2. Description of the solution
Steps taken:
Step 1: Power on the external device.

Step 2: Secure the data cable and

power cable to the device.

Step 3: Enable the device in the BIOS

settings.

Step 4: Replace the device.

Step 5: Remove the newly installed

device.

Step 6: Re-install or roll back the driver.

Example: on OS installation
1. Windows OS cant be installed to MBR partition table. 1. Convert the partition table to
GPT Steps taken:
b. Press Shift+f10 to open
command prompt (cmd)
c. On the command prompt, type
diskpart
d. Type list disk on the command
prompt to show the installed
disk
e. select the disk by typing, eg.
select disk 1 on the command
prompt
f. type clean to format drive
g. type convert GPT.
h. close command prompt (cmd)