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Information Sheet 1.

Safety tips and techniques in repairing computer system.

Learning Objective: At the end of this information sheet you are expected to do the following:
1. Differentiate diagnosing and troubleshooting
2. Obtain safety precaution/procedure.
3. Identify techniques in repairing computer system.
4. Identify rules in diagnosing and factors causing computer failure and defects.

Diagnosing Defined

Diagnose comes from the Greek word "diagignosko," meaning "know thoroughly," but used both in Greek and
English as "discern" or "distinguish." Therefore, diagnosing in computer science means the process of identifying
a problem and its cause. It is the first step of every problem-solving process, since without recognizing the issue
you cannot follow the appropriate method to fix it.

Examples of Diagnosing

Diagnosing is a task that both computer technicians (and users with substantial knowledge) and specific
software can undertake. For example, when you cannot run a DVD on your computer, a specialist can tell you if
the problem is on the driver or your software. Antivirus programs can scan the system automatically to
distinguish the route of a problem, while the "Wireless Network Connection Status" window in the Windows 7
operating system has a "Diagnose" button to help you identify problems with the Internet connection.

Troubleshooting Definition

Troubleshooting is the second -- and final -- part of the problem-solving process. After you have identified the
problem, you follow specific steps to fix it. Another, troubleshooting is the task of making repairs in machinery
and technical equipment by a skilled worker. However, troubleshooting can also be the task of specially-
designed applications, such as the "Windows Live Messenger Connection TroubleShooter," where you only need
to press a button and let the program do the rest.

Troubleshooting Explains the Whole Process

On certain occasions, the term "troubleshooting" correctly explains the whole process. This is when you go
through a trial-and-error process to fix a problem. Computer manuals can have a "troubleshooting" section,
listing a series of problems, along with speculative solutions. For example, for "I have no Internet Connection"
you can get the answer "Turn the router on," followed by other, more complicated tasks. Powering on the
router may not be the issue, but through this trial-and-error process, you cover all possible causes without
having to diagnose the problem first.

Safety First

Before attempting to repair or open up the computer case, you need to be sure to unplug the computer from the
electric source as well as unplugging the power supply from the back of the computer. Bear in mind that the inside
components of the computer can still hold electricity, which can electrocute, and that even a small amount of static
electricity can totally destroy the computer hard drive. Be sure to use extra caution and follow safety procedures every
time that you attempt to repair PCs.

Safety Precaution/Procedure for Computer Troubleshooting

Secure the safety of the following

1. Personal Safety
2. Computer Safety

Date Document No.


FRONTLINERS Computer Hardware Developed: May 2013
SKILLS TRAINING Servicing
Developed by: Issued by:
AND REVIEW Diagnosing and Emelyn T. Aborot
CENTER Troubleshooting Revision #
Computer Systems
To ensure the safety of the above mentioned, here are safety precaution and procedure in diagnosing and
troubleshooting computer.

1. Read detailed guide procedure if available.


2. Take off all the accessories in your body to avoid accident. Do not wear jewelry, chains, metal-frame eyeglasses,
or metal fasteners for your clothing.
3. Put all the sensitive devices in a proper place to avoid damage.
4. Make sure that you know what you are doing.
5. Unplug the computer before you open it up. This can help you avoid a sudden electrical discharge that could
cause injury.
6. Unplug all of the other cables that are connected to your computer, as well; remember that devices such as your
monitor are also connected to power sources. Never assume that power has been disconnected from a circuit.
First, check that it has been powered-off.
7. Before you touch any of your computer's components, touch a grounded metal object to discharge any static
electricity that you may have built up by walking on carpet. This step will prevent a static discharge from
occurring when you touch one of your computer's components, which could ruin the component.
8. You can also prevent sudden discharge by wearing a wrist strap, which can be purchased at most electronics
stores.
9. Observe good housekeeping in the area of the machines during and after maintenance.
10. Place removed covers and other parts in a safe place, away from all personnel, while you are servicing the
machine.
11. Keep your tool case away from walk areas so that other people will not trip over it.
12. Do not wear loose clothing that can be trapped in the moving parts of a machine. Ensure that your sleeves are
fastened or rolled up above your elbows. If your hair is long, use hair net or hair cap.
13. Insert the ends of your necktie or scarf inside clothing or fasten it with a nonconductive clip, approximately 3
inches from the end.
14. Always look carefully for possible hazards in your work
 moist floors
 Non-grounded power extension cables
 Power surges.
15. If an electrical accident occurs:
 Use caution
 Switch off power
 Send another person to get medical aid
16. After service, reinstall all safety shields, guards, labels, and ground wires. Replace any safety device that is worn
out or defective.

Finally, remember that computers are housed in metal cases for a reason: their components are fragile. Pins can be
bent; capacitors and resistors can be dislodged, and so on. Grip your components by the edges when you remove
them to prevent damaging them in advert3

Safety Inspection Guide

These steps will help you to identify potentially unsafe conditions on these products:
 Check exterior covers for damage (loose, broken, or sharp edges)
 Power-off computer. Disconnect the power cord.
 The power cord should be the appropriate type.
 Insulation on the power cord must not be frayed or worn out.
 Remove the cover.
 Check for any obvious alteration. Use good judgment as to the safety of any alterations
 Check for worn out, frayed or pinched cables.
 Check that the power-supply cover fasteners (screws or rivets) have not been removed or tampered with.

Rules in Diagnosing Computer System


1. Know the facts - Educate oneself on all aspects and operation of computer parts.
Continuous learning on computer technology.
2. Use your common sense
3. Focus on Field Replaceable Units
Date Document No.
FRONTLINERS Computer Hardware Developed: May 2013
SKILLS TRAINING Servicing
Developed by: Issued by:
AND REVIEW Diagnosing and Emelyn T. Aborot
CENTER Troubleshooting Revision #
Computer Systems
• Identify the different types of FRU that can be used for replacement or subassembly.
4. Proper assembly and disassembly

Factors Causing Computer Failures and Defects

1. Peopleware
• Untrained personnel would probably damage programs in PC.
2. Firmware
• Programs or software burnt in chips may be corrupted.
3. Software
• Corrupted operating systems would cause the system to fail.
4. Hardware
• Defective hardware components would lead to computer malfunction.
• Hardware conflicts and viruses can hinder your computers performance.
5. ESD (Electro Static Discharge)
• Electro static discharge can easily damage sensitive components in your computer.
6. Electricity
• Incoming supply from AC outlet must be regulated, power surges can damage computer units.

Basic Techniques in diagnosing and troubleshooting computer system

Here the six common-sense techniques and strategies to solve common computer hardware problems.

Swap Components (Trial-and-Error)

Personal computers by design are highly modular. The most effective way to troubleshoot your PC is by isolating the
problem to specific parts by trial and error. In this method you swap compatible components and see if the system works.
Try other components or peripherals on different machines and see if the problem still occurs. Remember also to make
one change at a time. This is a very effective method on locating a PC problem.

Check the cables

Almost 80% of all PC problems are related to cabling and connections. You must ensure that all cables are connected
firmly. IDE and floppy ribbon cables and power cables can often go loose. Check if your microprocessor, memory modules,
Video adapters and sound cards are inserted correctly and didn’t “pop-up” during transportation.

Don’t get frustrated

Don’t get frustrated and don’t be afraid of the computer problems consider it as the best opportunity to learn. For me
troubleshooting is a fun part of having a computer. Just think of the satisfaction, the knowledge and experience it will give
you after you solve the problem.

If you feel frustrated just leave it for a while, take a minute rest then go back with your fresh ideas to solve the problem
or if it’s too much to handle seek help call someone who can help.

Rule of thumb: You shouldn’t spend more than three hours on the same problem at one time.

Take down notes

Taking down notes will be very helpful. Take notes of what you have done and all the error messages. Those notes will be
valuable if you encounter the same problem. For instance, when you see an unusual blue screen with an error message,
copy the entire message onto a piece of paper. In many situations, that message may point to the right direction in getting
the problem solved quickly.

Hardware settings

Check the hardware settings in the CMOS and in the device manager of the system and make all the device drivers and
up to date and all the cards are plugged in properly.

Date Document No.


FRONTLINERS Computer Hardware Developed: May 2013
SKILLS TRAINING Servicing
Developed by: Issued by:
AND REVIEW Diagnosing and Emelyn T. Aborot
CENTER Troubleshooting Revision #
Computer Systems
Look inside

Don’t be afraid to open and look inside of your computer. It’s OK to look inside your PC There is only 5V and 12V DC voltage
supplied to the components outside the power supply. But always remember to power down and unplug the power chords
before opening your computer.

Information Sheet 2.1

Tools and Materials for Diagnosing and Troubleshooting

Learning Objective: At the end of this information sheet you are expected to:

a. Identify materials and tools used in PC repair.


b. Identity the functions of the materials and tools used in PC repair.

Name of Tools Uses/Functions


Standard screw drivers To loosen the screw of the computer to open it.
Cordless rechargeable screwdriver This is like a standard screw drivers but it saves time and effort
especially useful when fixing multiple computers.
Paper clips An unbent paper clip makes a perfect tool for releasing the drawer
of an optical disc and resetting the router and modem for network
troubleshooting
Plastic eraser Use to eliminate soiled dust into gold pin connectors of RAM and
other cards
Brush To sweep away dust inside the computer system
Multi-tester/voltmeter Use for testing power supplies and other components.
ATX power supply tester A simple tool that indicates whether the power supply is indeed
outputting power, and provides convenient terminals that allow
you to easily test the voltage using a voltmeter or multi-tester.
Cable tester Cable tester saves time and trouble, no need to swap to known
good cables.
Port-testing software Used to determine whether various ports are working correctly
Breakout boxes Another device used for testing cables and ports. Allows complete
flexibility in changing the electrical configuration of cables and
ports for testing purposes.
Loopback adapters Loopback adapters simulate signals that are input into a computer.
It works with port-testing software
Anti-static (ESD) wrist band or anklebands Tool to protect computer circuits against the damage even carpet
shocks can cause.
Anti-static (ESD) spray Very effective in reducing static electricity on fabric and carpet
Anti-static (ESD) mats Provides a static-free surface. Can be used with anti static
wristbands.
POST card A card that can be plugged into an expansion slot and contains a
small display to show a problem code. POST cards are timesavers
that provide accurate and specific diagnose.
Diagnostic software such as Micro-Scope and These products can significantly reduce the time needed to
PC Certify diagnose all sorts of computer problems.
Disk drive installation software
BIOS flashing utilities Use these to flash BIOS’s and to perform other rescue operations
on BIOS’s and CMOS chips with problems.
USB network adapter Allows for easy network access on a computer that has USB ports
but no internal network adapter. Used for data transfer and
internet access on networks set up for it.
Internet access Allows access to Web-based virus-scanning software and other
utilities, and easy download of device drivers.
Data Transfer cables Data transfer is often the most efficient method of saving data that
will be erased by formatting the drive.
CD/DVD scratch repair kits These can often saves damaged software and data discs.
Date Document No.
FRONTLINERS Computer Hardware Developed: May 2013
SKILLS TRAINING Servicing
Developed by: Issued by:
AND REVIEW Diagnosing and Emelyn T. Aborot
CENTER Troubleshooting Revision #
Computer Systems
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) These provide continuous power to a computer when there is a
power failure.
Data-recovery software Software that can be often recover data from damaged hard disk
dives
Problem solving Software Various software programs such as Norton Utilities and McAfee
Clinic that solve many different computer problems and optimize
performance
LAN Tester Used to test LAN cable working, saves time and effort on testing
network connection
CD/DVD installer (OS) Used for reformatting computer
External CD/DVD ROM This is use if ever the installed cd rom in a computer is not working
properly, it can carry anywhere Disk drive installation software.

Information Sheet 6.2

POST Error Message

Learning Objective: At the end of this information sheet students are expected to do the following:

1. Identify the P|OST error message, computer display and behavior error.
2. Recognize the problem thru POST message, display and behavior
3. Analyze diagnosing and troubleshooting to be done.

Date Document No.


FRONTLINERS Computer Hardware Developed: May 2013
SKILLS TRAINING Servicing
Developed by: Issued by:
AND REVIEW Diagnosing and Emelyn T. Aborot
CENTER Troubleshooting Revision #
Computer Systems
POST message Probable Cause/ Defective component Diagnosing Troubleshooting
NTLDR missing  Operating System problem.  Reset the computer system  Trial and Error
Sector Not Found  Cable connection may cause the problem. and press DEL to enter the  Set your jumper into master or see the
Disk Boot Failure, Insert Bootable Disk,  System is trying to boot from non-bootable device. BIOS set-up and check the label for hard drive setting.
Press any Key to continue  Boot sector problem. boot sequence: Hard disk  Run system repair
Realtek Network Boot  System 32 is infected by virus drive must be set as first boot  Reformat / re-install operating system
Drive not ready  System crushed device.  Put new hard disk drive
No Bootable Device Found  Cables are not firmly inserted  Also check if the drive A is
Non System Disk  Windows didn’t able to load into memory enable it must be disable.
System Halted  Check the cables
OS not found.  Scan your system by booting
Invalid Boot Disk into safe mode

CHECKSUM error  Occurs during system startup, it could mean that the system has  Disconnect you  Replace your battery
System Date not set been restored to default factory settings. motherboard battery for 15  Reset you motherboard
CMOS Failure  The problem could also occur due to the depletion of the CMOS seconds and start again,
Invalid Configuration battery. press del to boot BIOS Set
up, then set your date and
time into current, boot
sequence and disable drive
A.
CPU Fan error  CPU heat sink not properly installed;  Touch the CPU fan and heat  Go to your BIOS set up and make sure
CPU is running too hot Missing, insufficient, or excessive heatsink compound; sink if it’s hot, disconnect the that the CPU is in the normal
CPU over temperature error  Poor CPU contact between a CPU pin and the CPU socket; two and make it cool temperature, if not set it base on your
BIOS incorrectly reading or reporting the temps (check your BIOS through electric fan. motherboard manual or try to find your
rev level against reasons for any upgrades at the mobo  Check into your BIOS if the processor to the following list:
manufacturers site); temperature exceeds into Intel CPU Temps - Haswell
 Improper component mounted on the Mobo by the manufacturer normal temp. Idle Temp Normal Temp Max Temp
Core i3-4130 34 to 38°C 50 to 61°C 72°C
that somehow missed the automated inspection & testing phase Core i5-4670K 28 to 35°C 47 to 60°C 72°C
before shipment. Core i7-4770K 34 to 39°C 55 to 65°C 67°C
Intel CPU Temps - Ivy Bridge

Date Document No.


FRONTLINERS Computer Hardware Developed: May 2013
SKILLS TRAINING Servicing
Developed by: Issued by:
AND REVIEW Diagnosing and Emelyn T. Aborot
CENTER Troubleshooting Revision #
Computer Systems
Idle Temp Normal Temp Max Temp
Core i3-3220 28 to 35°C 50 to 60°C 65°C
Core i5-3570K 28 to 35°C 50 to 62°C 67°C
Core i7-3770K 30 to 40°C 55 to 65°C 67°C
Intel CPU Temps - Sandy Bridge
Idle Temp Normal Max Temp
Core i3-2100 30 to 37°C Temp 69°C
Core i5- 35 to 41°C 50 to 62°C 72°C
2500K 32 to 40°C 55 to 65°C 72°C
Core i7- 47 to 60°C
2600K

AMD APU Temps - Kaveri


Idle Temp Normal Max Temp
A10-7850K 28 to 33°C Temp 72.4°C
49 to 60°C
AMD APU Temps - Richland
Idle Temp Normal Max Temp
A6-6400K 28 to 37°C Temp 70°C
A10-6800K 28 to 35°C 49 to 57°C 74°C
50 to 55°C
AMD APU Temps - Trinity
Idle Temp Normal Max Temp
A6-5400K 25 to 35°C Temp 70°C
A10-5800K 28 to 35°C 45 to 55°C 74°C
50 to 55°C
AMD CPU Temps - Piledriver
Idle Temp Normal Max Temp
FX-4300 30 to 35°C Temp 61°C
FX-6300 35 to 40°C 45 to 55°C 61°C
FX-8350 30 to 40°C 50 to 60°C 61°C
50 to 55°C
AMD CPU Temps - Bulldozer
Idle Temp Normal Max Temp
FX-4100 35 to 40°C Temp 70°C
50 to 60°C

Date Document No.


FRONTLINERS Computer Hardware Developed: May 2013
SKILLS TRAINING Servicing
Developed by: Issued by:
AND REVIEW Diagnosing and Emelyn T. Aborot
CENTER Troubleshooting Revision #
Computer Systems
FX-6100 30 to 35°C 45 to 55°C 70°C
FX-8150 30 to 35°C 50 to 58°C 61°C
Display & Behavior
No Signal  VGA cable dislodged  Firmly inserted VGA Cable  Clean your RAM with eraser
No Display/Blank Screen  Defective cable  Trial and Error  Install Video card
 VGA problem
 No power to monitor
System has no power at all. Power light  Power cable is unplugged  Visual inspection, try  Make sure power cable is securely
does not illuminate, fan inside the  Defective power cable another cable. plugged in.
power supply does not turn on and  Power supply failure  Visually inspect power  Replace cable.
indicator light on keyboard does not  Faulty wall outlet; circuit breaker or fuse blown. cable.  Use different socket, repair outlet,
turn on.  Power cable and wall reset circuit breaker or replace fuse
socket are OK, but system is  Replace power supply
still dead
 Plug device into socket
know to work and test.
Computer system start-up  Threat infected  Trial & Error  Do system restore
repeatedly/restarting pc  System RAM doesn’t work properly  Use Safe mode to uninstall  Reformat / re install operating system
Computer Turn off automatically after  New software application may cause this programs that may cause the  Cool your system for at least 15
10 seconds of booting  Central processing Unit and Power Supply is one of the factor problem. minutes
 Repair Windows
System hang its operation  Override system  Check cable set up  Trial and error
Power led standby and not work  Windows loading is slow  Shut down your computer for  Scan your computer
properly  Power supply and hard drive unstable at least 15 minutes  Repair the windows
 Visually inspect of the cable is  Replace power supply
firmly inserted
 Reset your computer`
computer system starts and repeatedly  keyboard is pressed  reset your computer  replace your keyboard
moving everything on the desktop  infected of threats  clean the keyboard  scan and delete viruses
without touching anything to the  keyboard is locked  try other keyboard type  reformat / re-install operating system
computer  keys jammed or defective
Date Document No.
FRONTLINERS Computer Hardware Developed: May 2013
SKILLS TRAINING Servicing
Developed by: Issued by:
AND REVIEW Diagnosing and Emelyn T. Aborot
CENTER Troubleshooting Revision #
Computer Systems
Certain keys do not function
Keyboard is locked, no keys function
BSOD (Blue Screen of Death) also called  Occurs when Windows suffers a serious error and is forced to  Repair your windows  Reformat your computer
us stop error, blue screen, Blue Screen "stop" completely.  Trial and error  Reset your motherboard
of Doom, BSoD, bug check screen  Fatal Error
 Multiple error may occur

 Software errors during Windows operation. Software or device


drivers installed in your computer may have errors or problems
which cause a stop error, either constantly or under certain
conditions.
 Hardware errors during Windows operation. If a hardware device
malfunctions or is removed during the operation of Windows, or if
your hardware does not fully support the operations that XP
expects it to support, a hardware stop error will occur. Outdated
BIOS information on older computers might also be an issue.
 Installation errors. The Windows XP installation process is the
most sensitive time for hardware and disk errors. If there is a
problem with your computer's hardware configuration or the
media you are using to install XP, a stop error will likely occur.
 Startup errors. Corrupted system files, hardware and driver errors
can all cause Windows XP to halt with a stop message without
correctly booting into Windows. An error of this sort will almost
always require troubleshooting before Windows can be loaded
correctly.
 Intermittent errors. The most irritating type of stop message,
these crop up consistently but apparently randomly. The most
likely culprits for this include: defective system memory, an
overheating processor, dead or dying hard drive or faulty software
and device drivers.

Date Document No.


FRONTLINERS Computer Hardware Developed: May 2013
SKILLS TRAINING Servicing
Developed by: Issued by:
AND REVIEW Diagnosing and Emelyn T. Aborot
CENTER Troubleshooting Revision #
Computer Systems
Date Document No.
FRONTLINERS Computer Hardware Developed: May 2013
SKILLS TRAINING Servicing
Developed by: Issued by:
AND REVIEW Diagnosing and Emelyn T. Aborot
CENTER Troubleshooting Revision #
Computer Systems

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