Lec 3
Lec 3
Hardware Troubleshooting
Common Hardware Issues
1. Overheating
- Causes: Dust-clogged fans, faulty thermal paste, or excessive workload.
- Solutions: Clean fans/heatsinks, replace thermal paste, and ensure proper
ventilation.
2. RAM Failures
- Signs : Frequent crashes, boot failures (beep codes).
- Diagnosis: Use tools like MemTest86 to test RAM integrity.
5. Peripheral Failures
- Examples: Unresponsive USB ports, display artifacts.
- Steps: Reinstall drivers or check motherboard connections .
Software Troubleshooting
Common Software Issues
1. OS Errors and Slow Performance
- Causes: Corrupted files, excessive background processes.
- Solutions:
- Use Task Manager to identify resource-heavy apps .
- Run System File Checker (sfc /scannow) to repair OS files .
2. Application Crashes
- Resolution: Update software, reinstall programs, or check for compatibility
issues .
3. Malware Infections
- Detection: Unexpected pop-ups, sluggish performance.
- Tools: Malwarebyte or Windows Defender for scans .
4. Driver Conflicts
- Diagnosis: Check Device Manager for yellow alerts.
- Fix: Update drivers manually or via tools like Driver Booster .
5. Boot Issues
- Troubleshooting: Boot into Safe Mode to isolate software problems .
5. Backup Data
- Prevent data loss with cloud storage or external drives before major fixes .
Preventive Maintenance
- Hardware: Clean dust every 3–6 months; monitor temperatures .
- Software: Schedule antivirus scans; uninstall unused programs .