Guide to Troubleshooting Common Laptop Hardware Issues

Computer Basics-

Lesson 19: Basic Troubleshooting Techniques

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Troubleshooting

Do you know what to do if your screen goes blank? What if you can't seem to close an application, or can't hear any sound from your speakers? Whenever you have a problem with your computer, don't panic! There are many basic troubleshooting techniques you can use to fix issues like this. In this lesson, we'll show you some simple things to try when troubleshooting, as well as how to solve common problems you may encounter.

General tips to keep in mind

There are many different things that could cause a problem with your computer. No matter what's causing the issue, troubleshooting will always be a process of trial and errorin some cases, you may need to use several different approaches before you can find a solution; other problems may be easy to fix. We recommend starting by using the following tips.

• Write down your steps: Once you start troubleshooting, you may want to write down each step you take. This way, you'll be able to remember exactly what you've done and can avoid repeating the same mistakes. If you end up asking other people for help, it will be much easier if they know exactly what you've tried already.
• Take notes about error messages: If your computer gives you an error message, be sure to write down as much information as possible. You may be able to use this information later to find out if other people are having the same error.
• Always check the cables: If you're having trouble with a specific piece of computer hardware, such as your monitor or keyboard, an easy first step is to check all related cables to make sure they're properly connected.
• Restart the computer: When all else fails, restarting the computer is a good thing to try. This can solve a lot of basic issues you may experience with your computer.

Using the process of elimination

If you're having an issue with your computer, you may be able to find out what's wrong using the process of elimination. This means you'll make a list of things that could be causing the problem and then test them out one by one to eliminate them. Once you've identified the source of your computer issue, it will be easier to find a solution.

Scenario:

Let's say you're trying to print out invitations for a birthday party, but the printer won't print. You have some ideas about what could be causing this, so you go through them one by one to see if you can eliminate any possible causes.

First, you check the printer to see that it's turned on and plugged in to the surge protector. It is, so that's not the issue. Next, you check to make sure the printer's ink cartridge still has ink and that there is paper loaded in the paper tray. Things look good in both cases, so you know the issue has nothing to do with ink or paper.

Now you want to make sure the printer and computer are communicating correctly. If you recently downloaded an update to your operating system, it might interfere with the printer. But you know there haven't been any recent updates and the printer was working yesterday, so you'll have to look elsewhere.

You check the printer's USB cord and find that it's not plugged in. You must have unplugged it accidentally when you plugged something else into the computer earlier. Once you plug in the USB cord, the printer starts working again. It looks like this printer issue is solved!

This is just one example of an issue you might encounter while using a computer. In the rest of this lesson, we'll talk about other common computer problems and some ways to solve them.

Simple solutions to common problems

Most of the time, problems can be fixed using simple troubleshooting techniques, like closing and reopening the program. It's important to try these simple solutions before resorting to more extreme measures. If the problem still isn't fixed, you can try other troubleshooting techniques.

Problem: Power button will not start computer

• Solution 1: If your computer does not start, begin by checking the power cord to confirm that it is plugged securely into the back of the computer case and the power outlet.
• Solution 2: If it is plugged into an outlet, make sure it is a working outlet. To check your outlet, you can plug in another electrical device, such as a lamp.
• Solution 3: If the computer is plugged in to a surge protector, verify that it is turned on. You may have to reset the surge protector by turning it off and then back on. You can also plug a lamp or other device into the surge protector to verify that it's working correctly.
• Solution 4: If you are using a laptop, the battery may not be charged. Plug the AC adapter into the wall, then try to turn on the laptop. If it still doesn't start up, you may need to wait a few minutes and try again.

Problem: An application is running slowly

• Solution 1: Close and reopen the application.
• Solution 2: Update the application. To do this, click the Help menu and look for an option to check for Updates. If you don't find this option, another idea is to run an online search for application updates.

Problem: An application is frozen

Sometimes an application may become stuck, or frozen. When this happens, you won't be able to close the window or click any buttons within the application.

• Solution 1: Force quit the application. On a PC, you can press (and hold) Ctrl+Alt+Delete (the Control, Alt, and Delete keys) on your keyboard to open the Task Manager. On a Mac, press and hold Command+Option+Esc. You can then select the unresponsive application and click End task (or Force Quit on a Mac) to close it.
• Solution 2: Restart the computer. If you are unable to force quit an application, restarting your computer will close all open apps.

Problem: All programs on the computer run slowly

• Solution 1: Run a virus scanner. You may have malware running in the background that is slowing things down.
• Solution 2: Your computer may be running out of hard drive space. Try deleting any files or programs you don't need.
• Solution 3: If you're using a PC, you can run Disk Defragmenter. To learn more about Disk Defragmenter, check out our lesson on Protecting Your Computer.

Problem: The computer is frozen

Sometimes your computer may become completely unresponsive, or frozen. When this happens, you won't be able to click anywhere on the screen, open or close applications, or access shut-down options.

• Solution 1 (Windows only): Restart Windows Explorer. To do this, press and hold Ctrl+Alt+Delete on your keyboard to open the Task Manager. Next, locate and select Windows Explorer from the Processes tab and click Restart. You may need to click More Details at the bottom of the window to see the Processes tab.
• Solution 2 (Mac only): Restart Finder. To do this, press and hold Command+Option+Esc on your keyboard to open the Force Quit Applications dialog box. Next, locate and select Finder, then click Relaunch.
• Solution 3: Press and hold the Power button. The Power button is usually located on the front or side of the computer, typically indicated by the power symbol. Press and hold the Power button for 5 to 10 seconds to force the computer to shut down.
• Solution 4: If the computer still won't shut down, you can unplug the power cable from the electrical outlet. If you're using a laptop, you may be able to remove the battery to force the computer to turn off. Note: This solution should be your last resort after trying the other suggestions above.

Problem: The mouse or keyboard has stopped working

• Solution 1: If you're using a wired mouse or keyboard, make sure it's correctly plugged into the computer.
• Solution 2: If you're using a wireless mouse or keyboard, make sure it's turned on and that its batteries are charged.

Problem: The sound isn't working

• Solution 1: Check the volume level. Click the audio button in the top-right or bottom-right corner of the screen to make sure the sound is turned on and that the volume is up.
• Solution 2: Check the audio player controls. Many audio and video players will have their own separate audio controls. Make sure the sound is turned on and that the volume is turned up in the player.
• Solution 3: Check the cables. Make sure external speakers are plugged in, turned on, and connected to the correct audio port or a USB port. If your computer has color-coded ports, the audio output port will usually be green.
• Solution 4: Connect headphones to the computer to find out if you can hear sound through the headphones.

Problem: The screen is blank

• Solution 1: The computer may be in Sleep mode. Click the mouse or press any key on the keyboard to wake it.
• Solution 2: Make sure the monitor is plugged in and turned on.
• Solution 3: Make sure the computer is plugged in and turned on.
• Solution 4: If you're using a desktop, make sure the monitor cable is properly connected to the computer tower and the monitor.

Solving more difficult problems

If you still haven't found a solution to your problem, you may need to ask someone else for help. As an easy starting point, we'd recommend searching the Web. It's possible that other users have had similar problems, and solutions to these problems are often posted online. Also, if you have a friend or family member who knows a lot about computers, they may be able to help you.

Keep in mind that most computer problems have simple solutions, although it may take some time to find them. For difficult problems, a more drastic solution may be required, like reformatting your hard drive or reinstalling your operating system. If you think you might need a solution like this, we recommend consulting a professional first. If you're not a computer expert, it's possible that attempting these solutions could make the situation worse.

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10 Most Common Laptop Problems and How to Repair Them

Nothing is more frustrating than a laptop that does not work correctly. You invest money in the device and rely on it for work or personal use, so it is a real inconvenience when you have laptop repair problems. Some hardware issues are quite common across laptops, and you may be able to troubleshoot the issue and find a quick fix. Keep reading to learn more about the ten most common laptop repair problems and how to repair them.

1. Your computer does not turn on

You press the power button, and nothing happens. One common laptop problem is a complete failure for the device to turn on, and it can leave you without access to your important files and programs. If the laptop seems like it is dead and does not make any sounds or light up, there are a few possible causes and solutions.

First, make sure your computer is charged. If you believe it has been charged, your AC adapter might have failed. You can test the AC adapter with a voltmeter or test a new adapter. If your AC adapter isnt to blame, the DC jack may have failed, keeping power from your computer, or the issue is with your motherboard.

2. The screen is blank

If your laptop shows signs that it is on, such as lights or sounds, but the screen remains blank, you are left unable to use your computer. This issue can be particularly frustrating because your machine appears to be functional except for the screen. First, try to unplug your laptop from its power source and remove the battery. Press and hold the power button for about a minute before plugging it back in and restarting your computer. Finally, replace the battery and restart the laptop again.

If that process does not work, you may be experiencing a memory failure. Check that the memory modules are making contact with the slot. It may be necessary to replace the memory modules altogether.

You can also try removing components like your hard drive, modem, or keyboard to determine what is causing the issue. If your screen is still blank after these tests, the motherboard or processer is likely to blame.

3. Laptop turns on and off repeatedly

You may power on your laptop only for it to turn off and on again on its own. The laptop may shut down completely, or you could be left with a flickering display that makes it impossible to see the screen. Start by checking your memory modules or replacing them. If that does not resolve the issue, your motherboard may be to blame.

4. The laptop makes weird noise while running

Most laptops make some noise when they are on, typically the whirl of the devices fan. However, you may notice your laptop making more unpleasant sounds while it is running. If you notice a grinding noise or a rattling sound, you need to check the cooling fan.

If your laptop is still making noises even if the fan is not spinning, the sound is likely coming from your hard drive; You can back up your important files and data before replacing the hard drive.

5. Laptop shuts down or freezes

You get on your computer and start working, only for it to freeze a few minutes later or shut down on its own. This frustrating occurrence can lead to lost data and unsaved files, but it will also cause you to worry about the state of your laptop. If your laptop shuts down or freezes, test the bottom. If it is hot or you notice the fan working harder than usual, the issue is likely related to heat. Clean out your fan and heat sink to prevent dust from clogging up and blocking the processor from cooling.

6. The battery does not charge properly

If your laptop does not charge properly or at all, there is a possible easy fix. Adjust your AC adapter plug by moving the cord slightly to alter the position in the power connector. Your laptop may indicate that it is charging again, or you may notice that your adaptor cord is frayed or otherwise damaged. When your battery fails, you will need to replace it.

7. Screen light fails

Dim screens or failing screen lights can cause you to strain your eyes as you attempt to view your laptop screen. If everything else works on your laptop, you may be experiencing a screen inverter or backlight lamp failure. Try replacing these components to repair your screen light failure.

8. The strange or garbled image on the screen

You may notice that the image on your screen is distorted or odd in some way. Whether the image appears warped or the colors are off; it can be difficult to accomplish tasks on your laptop. Try using your laptop with an external monitor. If the image appears strange on the screen, your graphics card is to blame. If the problem is limited to your laptop screen, you can have an issue with your motherboard, video cable, or display.

9. Keyboard keys stopped working

Have you ever been typing only to realize that several letters are missing or keyboard keys bring up the wrong characters? Sticking keys could be the problem, so you should try removing the keycaps and carefully cleaning beneath them. If this does not resolve the issue, your keyboard may need to be replaced.

10. Repetitive beep sound on starting

When you power on your laptop, you expect the typical startup noises. If you are met with repetitive beeping sounds and a blank screen, try pressing your keyboard. Sometimes a stuck key can cause issues on startup, but it is usually an easy fix.

If you troubleshoot common laptop repair issues and are still left without a solution, it is time to turn to the professionals. Mobile PC Medics is your trusted resource for PC and Mac computer repair. The certified specialists at Mobile PC Medics can provide top-notch computer repair, laptop repair, and technical support to resolve any frustrating laptop issues you may have.

Best of all, they are mobile! If you are in or near Westlake Village, Simi Valley, or Woodland Hills in California, you can get same-day service for your device. An experienced technician will come to you to resolve your laptop issues quickly and efficiently. Contact Mobile PC Medics today for a free diagnosis and consultation.