Computer
Trouble Shooting Tips
Your computer is completely dead and
will not switch on. Firstly check to make sure
that the power cord is firmly plugged in to the computer and the plug is
switched on.
Listen at the back of the computer and see
whether the power supply fan is spinning, if it isn’t the power supply could
be faulty.
If the lights on the front panel come on and
the monitor does not power up, check that the monitor plug is firmly plugged in
the back of the computer and that the monitor is switched on. If the problem
persists you may have to open the pc and make sure all of the cards are seated
properly as they can work loose over time especially if the computer is moved
about. When opening the pc make sure it is turned off. Always handle parts with
care as even a small charge of static electricity can blow components. If you
have not done this before you may want to get a technician to do it.
The computer emits a series of beeps
when switched on – this is an error message from
the pc, according to the number of beeps it signifies a different error. Most
commonly it is a memory or video card error. This will require reseating the RAM
(memory cards) or video card to make better contact. If this does not solve the
problem, components may be faulty.
Your computer makes a strange noise – if it sounds like a ticking or scraping noise it is
probably one of the fans in the computer. If the fan on the processor is making
a noise it is wise to replace it, as you do not want to overheat the processor.
The fan in the power supply also gets full of dust and can start making a noise
or even seize up. These usually last a while before packing up, just keep an eye
on it and if it stops spinning then you will have to replace the power supply.
If it is neither the of the fans then listen to your hard drive, if this has
just started making out of the ordinary clacking sounds then it is time to make
sure all your data is backed up and run a thorough check on the hard drive as it
may be crashing.