How To Diagnose PC Hardware Problems
- Details
- Category: Pc repair
Use the general diagnosis table below as a guide to finding the problem component. We have separate diagnostic pages for each component of the PC.
Symptom
Check
When I turn it on...
It makes no sound and there are no lights -Check the Power Supply
Check the Motherboard
Check the CPU--
When I turn it on...
It just beeps Read our Beep Codes List
Check the Keyboard
Check the Video Card
Check the Memory
Check the Motherboard
When I turn it on...
It sounds normal but the screen is blank
Make sure the monitor has power
Check the connection to the video card
Check the Video Card
When I turn it on...
It starts up but never loads the operating system Check the Hard Disk
Check the Memory
Check the Motherboard
Check the CPU
When I turn it on...
It freezes BEFORE the operating system starts loading
Check the Keyboard
Check the Video Card
Check the Memory
Check the Power Supply
Check the Motherboard
Check the CPU
When I turn it on...
It freezes WHILE the operating system is loading This is probably a software problem not covered in this hardware guide. If you are using Windows, try booting into safe mode by holding down the "F8" key or in some cases the "CONTROL" key.
While it is on...
It makes a screeching or other loud noise
Check the Power Supply, CPU, Case or other Internal Fans
Check the CD-ROM
Check the Hard Disk
Check the Floppy Drive
While it is on...
It shuts itself off
Check the power features in the BIOS
Check the power features in the Windows Control Panel
Check the Power Supply
Check that all fans are working
Check for the accumulation of dust
If the problem occurs in association with a specific hardware component, visit the diagnostic page for that particular part.
Software Issues are not covered in this hardware guide.