5.2 - Troubleshooting Common Hardware Problems Flashcards

1
Q

What is the purpose of the POST (Power-On Self-Test)?

A

To ensure all main system components (CPU, video, keyboard, memory) are available and working properly.

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2
Q

What happens if the POST detects a problem?

A

The system will emit a series of beeps and may display error messages on the screen.

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3
Q

Why does the system emit beeps during POST errors?

A

In case of a video issue where screen messages can’t be displayed, beeps provide feedback on the problem.

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4
Q

Do you need to memorize different beep codes for the A+ certification?

A

No, different manufacturers use different beep codes; refer to the motherboard documentation.

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5
Q

What might a blank screen with POST beeps indicate?

A

Possible issues with the video adapter, memory, CPU, or BIOS configuration.

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6
Q

What causes a system to display an incorrect date and time during boot?

A

A depleted or faulty battery on the motherboard affecting the BIOS.

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7
Q

What should you check if your system tries to boot from the wrong drive?

A

Check the boot order in the BIOS configuration and ensure the correct drive is set as the primary boot device.

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8
Q

What should you do if a USB drive is causing boot issues?

A

Remove the USB drive and restart the computer.

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9
Q

What is a Windows Stop Error?

A

A fatal error also known as the ‘Blue Screen of Death,’ indicating a serious system issue.

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10
Q

Where can you find details about a Windows Stop Error if the screen disappears quickly?

A

In the Windows Event Viewer.

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11
Q

What should you do if a Windows blue screen error is persistent?

A

Contact the hardware manufacturer or refer to Microsoft’s website using the stop code for troubleshooting.

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12
Q

What are some reasons for a Windows blue screen error?

A

Bad hardware, incompatible drivers, or malfunctioning applications.

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13
Q

What is Safe Mode useful for?

A

Diagnosing problems by loading minimal drivers, helpful if the system won’t boot normally.

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14
Q

What is the ‘Spinning Beach Ball of Death’ in macOS?

A

A cursor indicating the system is busy and the process must complete before regaining control.

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15
Q

What should you check if your monitor displays a black screen?

A

Ensure all cables are properly connected, and check the monitor input settings.

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16
Q

What might cause the screen to go black after Windows loads?

A

Possible driver issues; try starting Windows in VGA mode.

17
Q

What could indicate a power issue if the computer doesn’t turn on?

A

Check the power supply, power cables, and use a multimeter to test for power.

18
Q

What is the POST process useful for when diagnosing power issues?

A

To identify problems with the motherboard or other components during startup.

19
Q

What tool can help diagnose a sluggish operating system?

A

Task Manager to check CPU utilization and processes.

20
Q

What can cause an operating system to slow down?

A

High CPU utilization, storage drive issues, lack of free space, or background processes like Windows Update.

21
Q

What should you do if you smell burning or see smoke from your computer?

A

Disconnect from the power source immediately to prevent further damage.

22
Q

How do you troubleshoot a computer that suddenly goes black with no warning?

A

Check the Event Viewer for logged errors, inspect system temperatures, and verify hardware components.

23
Q

What might cause a system shutdown due to heat?

A

Blocked airflow, malfunctioning fans, or heat sinks.

24
Q

What utility helps monitor system stability over time in Windows?

A

Reliability Monitor provides a graphical overview of system performance and failures.

25
Q

What should you suspect if you hear grinding noises from your computer?

A

Potential hard drive failure, loose components, or an obstruction in a cooling fan.

26
Q

How can you identify a failing capacitor on the motherboard?

A

Look for bulging or leaking capacitors on the motherboard.

27
Q

What steps should you take if your system freezes with no error message?

A

Check hardware indicators, recent changes, resource utilization, and run hardware diagnostics.

28
Q

What is a potential cause of a computer continuously restarting?

A

Configuration issues in BIOS, faulty drivers, or failing hardware.

29
Q

What does an incorrect date and time on startup usually indicate?

A

A failed motherboard battery that needs replacing.

30
Q

Does removing the motherboard battery reset the BIOS on modern computers?

A

No, BIOS settings are stored in flash memory; you need to short a jumper to reset.