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Chapter 3 outlines a systematic troubleshooting methodology for PC hardware, including identifying problems, establishing and testing theories, and implementing solutions. It discusses configuring BIOS/UEFI, addressing power and disk issues, and troubleshooting system and display problems. Key topics include symptoms of failures, diagnostic tools like SMART, and solutions for common hardware issues.

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8 views3 pages

Text 3

Chapter 3 outlines a systematic troubleshooting methodology for PC hardware, including identifying problems, establishing and testing theories, and implementing solutions. It discusses configuring BIOS/UEFI, addressing power and disk issues, and troubleshooting system and display problems. Key topics include symptoms of failures, diagnostic tools like SMART, and solutions for common hardware issues.

Uploaded by

gomomosime
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Chapter 3 - TroubleShooting PC Hardware

Troubleshooting Methodology (CompTIA A+ Model)

1. Identify the Problem – Gather user information and check for changes.

2. Establish a Theory – Question obvious causes and research symptoms.

3. Test the Theory – If confirmed, proceed with fixing; otherwise, develop


a new theory.

4. Plan and Implement a Solution – Follow vendor instructions if needed.

5. Verify System Functionality – Ensure the issue is fully resolved.

6. Document Findings – Keep records of the problem and solution.

Configuring BIOS/UEFI

the system firmware for a PC was a type called BIOS

A FIRMWARE IS specialized program code stored in flash memory.

• BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is older, supporting only 32-bit


operations.

• UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is more advanced, offering


64-bit support, GUI, better security, and networking at boot.

• BIOS/UEFI settings can be accessed via keystrokes (e.g., F1, F2, Del).

• Key configurations include boot options, fan control, USB permissions,


and security settings.

Troubleshooting Power and Disk Issues

Power Issues

• Symptoms: No power, sudden shutdowns, or restarts.

• Checks: Power cables, PSU, fuses, and external electrical sources.

• Solution: Replace faulty power supplies, ensure stable power delivery.

POST (Power-On Self-Test) Issues

If the computer powers on but doesn’t boot, check:


⁃ Firmware updates

⁃ Loose cables or disconnected components

⁃ Faulty hardware (motherboard, CPU, RAM)


Boot Issues

• Causes: Incorrect boot order, faulty drives, corrupted boot sector (MBR or
GPT).

• Fixes: Check boot order, inspect disk health, repair boot sectors.

Drive Availability and Reliability

• Symptoms: Slow performance, missing drives, data corruption.

• Use SMART (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology) for


diagnostics.

• Solutions: Check cables, power connections, or replace the failing disk.

RAID Failures

• RAID protects data by mirroring or distributing it across multiple disks.

• Fixing RAID issues:

• Replace failed drives (if RAID supports hot-swapping).

• Use RAID utilities for recovery.

Troubleshooting System and Display Issues

Component Failures

• Symptoms: Blue screen errors, crashes, system reboots.

• Causes: Overheating, power supply issues, faulty RAM/CPU.

• Fixes: Clean dust, check fan operation, run diagnostics.

Performance Issues

• Check for overheating, software misconfigurations, and hardware faults.

Date/Time Errors

• If incorrect, the RTC battery (CMOS battery) may need replacement.

Display Issues

• No Video Output: Check power, cables, and input sources.

• Poor Video Quality: Symptoms include dim, fuzzy, flashing screens, dead
pixels.
• Projector Issues: Burned-out bulbs and overheating can cause shutdowns.

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