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Lesson 5 (Identifying and Isolating Faults)

The document discusses 10 ways to diagnose computer system problems including checking the POST screen, operating system load time, graphics, audio, newly installed hardware and software, RAM and CPU consumption, hard drive noises, running virus scans, and checking for issues in safe mode. Identifying the source of the problem is key to isolating faults.

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Jeff Lacasandile
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115 views4 pages

Lesson 5 (Identifying and Isolating Faults)

The document discusses 10 ways to diagnose computer system problems including checking the POST screen, operating system load time, graphics, audio, newly installed hardware and software, RAM and CPU consumption, hard drive noises, running virus scans, and checking for issues in safe mode. Identifying the source of the problem is key to isolating faults.

Uploaded by

Jeff Lacasandile
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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READING MATERIAL

CHS 4

LESSON 5: IDENTIFYING AND ISOLATING FAULTS

WAYS TO DIAGNOSE A COMPUTER SYSTEM PROBLEM

1.  Power On Self Test (POST) 

This stands for Power On Self Test. After turning on the computer’s power, this
will be the first screen that will appear before the operating system loads. The
POST will display any problems found in the hardware that prevents the
computer to boot or not operate in its full capacity during operation.

2.  Operating System Load Time

If the operating system takes to load than usual, there may be errors in the hard
drive.

3. Graphic Problems 

Check whether the computer graphics are good after the operating system
loads. Reduced graphics may indicate that there are hardware failures with the
graphic cards.

4. Perform an auditory test 

Play a short audio clip. When the audio is lagging, it means that the processor is
working at an elevated speed. It could also mean that there is no longer enough
RAM to keep programs loading. 
Changing the startup sound is a great way to apply this test. Another issue
associated with choppy sounds is PIO (Programmed Input/Output) Mode. 

This affects how the hard drive reads and writes data from a drive.
Switching to DMA allows for faster reads and writes, and can sometimes
repair choppy audio.

5. Check for newly installed hardware 

Most operating system, especially Windows, can experience conflict with new
drivers. However, Windows would usually notify you about drivers that may be
causing the issue. This can be checked through Windows Device Manager.

Control Panel > Click System Icon > Click Hardware Tab > Click on Device
Manager

Use this to check and arrange hardware properties.

6. Check for newly installed software 

New software requires more resources than the system provides. If problem
occurs after the software starts, it is most likely caused by the software.

7. Check RAM and CPU consumption 


This is the most common cause of why a computer lag. Check the computer’s
Task Manager, click 

8. Check if hard drive is making scratching or making loud noises

Should this occur, turn off the computer and diagnose the harddrive. If the CPU
fan comes off at high speed when the CPU is working hard, it means that the
computer is working hard beyond its capacity.

9. Run a virus and malware scan. 

Third party software applications can be used.

10. Check problems while running safe mode. 

Safe mode can be activated by repeatedly tapping F8 during POST. If the issue
still occurs even while still in safe mode, then it is an issue of the operating
system.

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