The Computer Won’t
Boot Up!
This is definitely the most common error and the most
frightening! However, there are a lot of things you can do to find out what
exactly has happened. Usually it’s a
problem with the hardware, which has caused the computer to not turn on. It’s
always important to remind the user that it’s unlikely that their work has been
lost, as failure in hardware rarely affects the hard drive.
If it won’t turn on at all, check that all the connections
and power points are correctly in place and the sockets are on. If there is no problem with this, check that
you computer is receiving the correct amount of voltage, as too much power can
cause the computer not to switch on. Next test the socket power supply, named a
‘lamp test’, as it might have become faulty and might no longer be providing
electricity to the computer. You can
either test the socket by using socket testing equipment, or some other
electrical product, if the socket is still safe.
If all of this fails, then test the power supply unit in the
PC. Often, the cause of computer’s refusing to switch on is the fact that this
unit has failed. If you find out that it has failed, you will need to replace
this part.
A less common problem is that the ‘on switch’ has
malfunctioned due to wear and tear or damage. Try to switch the computer on and
off a few times, if you definitely believe this is the root problem, then
replace the button.
Even rarer is the motherboard has failed. If you have
already tested all the above and still found nothing, then the motherboard will
need to be replaced. Using a test card
will enable you to make sure that it is the motherboard, so that you’re not
replacing a motherboard for no reason – after all it is a time consuming and
expensive task.
Troubleshooting will take time, so you have to be very
patient indeed. However, it can be a quick and easy process once you have
experienced troubleshooting a great number of times.
If you’re thinking about taking the A plus certification, which will lead you into a career as an I.T
technician, have a look at computer based training at www.cvision.co.uk