5.2 - Troubleshooting Common Hardware Problems Flashcards
What is the purpose of the POST (Power-On Self-Test)?
To ensure all main system components (CPU, video, keyboard, memory) are available and working properly.
What happens if the POST detects a problem?
The system will emit a series of beeps and may display error messages on the screen.
Why does the system emit beeps during POST errors?
In case of a video issue where screen messages can’t be displayed, beeps provide feedback on the problem.
Do you need to memorize different beep codes for the A+ certification?
No, different manufacturers use different beep codes; refer to the motherboard documentation.
What might a blank screen with POST beeps indicate?
Possible issues with the video adapter, memory, CPU, or BIOS configuration.
What causes a system to display an incorrect date and time during boot?
A depleted or faulty battery on the motherboard affecting the BIOS.
What should you check if your system tries to boot from the wrong drive?
Check the boot order in the BIOS configuration and ensure the correct drive is set as the primary boot device.
What should you do if a USB drive is causing boot issues?
Remove the USB drive and restart the computer.
What is a Windows Stop Error?
A fatal error also known as the ‘Blue Screen of Death,’ indicating a serious system issue.
Where can you find details about a Windows Stop Error if the screen disappears quickly?
In the Windows Event Viewer.
What should you do if a Windows blue screen error is persistent?
Contact the hardware manufacturer or refer to Microsoft’s website using the stop code for troubleshooting.
What are some reasons for a Windows blue screen error?
Bad hardware, incompatible drivers, or malfunctioning applications.
What is Safe Mode useful for?
Diagnosing problems by loading minimal drivers, helpful if the system won’t boot normally.
What is the ‘Spinning Beach Ball of Death’ in macOS?
A cursor indicating the system is busy and the process must complete before regaining control.
What should you check if your monitor displays a black screen?
Ensure all cables are properly connected, and check the monitor input settings.
What might cause the screen to go black after Windows loads?
Possible driver issues; try starting Windows in VGA mode.
What could indicate a power issue if the computer doesn’t turn on?
Check the power supply, power cables, and use a multimeter to test for power.
What is the POST process useful for when diagnosing power issues?
To identify problems with the motherboard or other components during startup.
What tool can help diagnose a sluggish operating system?
Task Manager to check CPU utilization and processes.
What can cause an operating system to slow down?
High CPU utilization, storage drive issues, lack of free space, or background processes like Windows Update.
What should you do if you smell burning or see smoke from your computer?
Disconnect from the power source immediately to prevent further damage.
How do you troubleshoot a computer that suddenly goes black with no warning?
Check the Event Viewer for logged errors, inspect system temperatures, and verify hardware components.
What might cause a system shutdown due to heat?
Blocked airflow, malfunctioning fans, or heat sinks.
What utility helps monitor system stability over time in Windows?
Reliability Monitor provides a graphical overview of system performance and failures.
What should you suspect if you hear grinding noises from your computer?
Potential hard drive failure, loose components, or an obstruction in a cooling fan.
How can you identify a failing capacitor on the motherboard?
Look for bulging or leaking capacitors on the motherboard.
What steps should you take if your system freezes with no error message?
Check hardware indicators, recent changes, resource utilization, and run hardware diagnostics.
What is a potential cause of a computer continuously restarting?
Configuration issues in BIOS, faulty drivers, or failing hardware.
What does an incorrect date and time on startup usually indicate?
A failed motherboard battery that needs replacing.
Does removing the motherboard battery reset the BIOS on modern computers?
No, BIOS settings are stored in flash memory; you need to short a jumper to reset.
