< Computer Support < Hardware Troubleshooting

This lesson covers troubleshooting systems.

Objectives and Skills

Objectives and skills for the troubleshooting systems portion of A+ certification include:[1]

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

References

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