| Don't miss the Study Lab materials found in the Study Lab file on this CD. Each Study Lab is tailored to the individual chapters in this book, meaning that you'll quickly be able to determine which topics you understand well enough to pass the exam and which topics need more study time. The Study Labs are presented in printable PDF format so that you can take them with you to study at work, on the road, or even in your car just before test time! The Absolute Minimum -
Troubleshooting systems requires careful attention to symptoms, an understanding of the computer's subsystems, and changing one component or setting at a time until the problem is solved . -
The client interview is a vital step for discovering the causes of computer problems. Building trust with good customer relations is important, as is learning the software, hardware, and tasks involved in the problem. -
Gather information with reports and tests at the client's site to learn more about the underlying problem. -
Use your diagnostics toolkit to test power, open systems, tighten cables, start computers, and check for viruses as part of the information-gathering process. -
Evaluate the clues you gather in terms of subsystems. Each subsystem in the computer has a hardware, software, or firmware component. Choose a subsystem based on your evaluation to start the troubleshooting cycle. -
Record configurations, change one item at a time, review the results, restore the original item, and repeat until the problem is solved. Use known-working spares for replacements . -
For consistent problems, start with software or firmware settings; for occasional problems, start with hardware. -
Use manufacturer and third-party resources for more technical information and drivers if needed. -
To be well equipped for dealing with problems in the field, a well-stocked hardware and software toolkit is essential. -
Component failures can be caused by incorrect BIOS configuration, outdated firmware, overheating , overvoltage, loose cables, incorrect cable pinouts for task, incorrect Windows drivers, IRQ conflicts, power problems, dust and dirt, incorrect power management settings, physical damage to device or cables, wear and tear, lack of power to device, lack of application support for device, and other causes. -
Windows contains tools such as Task Manager, WinMSD, and System Information, among many others, which can be used to help solve hardware, software, and configuration problems. | |