4.0 Troubleshooting

4.2 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
  
  
  
  • BSOD

    When Microsoft Windows encounters a condition that compromises safe system operation, the system halts. This condition is called a bug check. It is also commonly referred to as a system crash, a kernel error, a Stop error, or BSOD. A hardware device, its driver, or related software might have caused this error.

    
    

    

    More on Blue Screen
    Demystifying the Blue Screen of Death

  
  
• Tools
  
  
  • Multimeter

    Multimeter - Wikipedia

  
  
  • Power supply tester

    ATX Power Supply Tester - Video Demonstration

  
  
  • Loopback plugs A loopback plug is a connector used for diagnosing transmission problems. It plugs into a port, such as a serial, parallel, or an Ethernet port and crosses the transmit line to the receive line so that outgoing signals can be redirected back into the computer for loopback testing.
  
  
  • POST card