Computer Support/Hardware Troubleshooting/Systems

This lesson covers troubleshooting systems.

Objectives and Skills

Objectives and skills for the troubleshooting systems portion of A+ certification include:

Given a scenario, troubleshoot common problems related to motherboards, RAM, CPU and power with appropriate tools.

• Common symptoms
  • Unexpected shutdowns
  • System lockups
  • POST code beeps
  • Blank screen on bootup
  • BIOS time and settings resets
  • Attempts to boot to incorrect device
  • Continuous reboots
  • No power
  • Overheating
  • Loud noise
  • Intermittent device failure
  • Fans spin – no power to other devices
  • Indicator lights
  • Smoke
  • Burning smell
  • Proprietary crash screens (BSOD/pin wheel)
  • Distended capacitors
• Tools
  • Multimeter
  • Power supply tester
  • Loopback plugs
  • POST card / USB

Readings

1. Wikipedia: Troubleshooting
2. Wikipedia: Multimeter
3. Wikipedia: POST card
4. Wikipedia: Power-on self-test

Multimedia

1. YouTube: Troubleshooting Common Hardware Problems - CompTIA A+ 220-901 - 4.1
2. YouTube: Hardware Troubleshooting Tools - CompTIA A+ 220-901 - 4.1

Activities

1. Follow along with YouTube: ATX PC power supply diagnostic and repair.
2. Follow along with YouTube: Using a "Power Supply Tester" to test an ATX computer PSU (and a voltmeter too).
3. Make your own 5-in-1 loopback device [1]