Troubleshooting Basic Computer Problems

Question 1

Why would a computer, laptop or mobile device not respond when the power is turned on?

Answer 1

1. The power cable is not connected to the power connector on the back of the computer or device and not plugged into the electrical outlet.
2. The power strip being used is not connected to an outlet or turned on.
3. The electrical outlet is not working (use a test device).
4. Is another power cable able to be used?

Question 2

What would be the cause of printers’ problems.

Answer 2

1. The printer driver is not installed on the computer.
2. The printer is not turned on or plugged into a power strip.
3. The paper is stuck in the printer.

Question 3

Why would a printer be receiving power, but not printing correctly?

Answer 3

1. The printer does not contain the right ink cartridges or toner.
2. The print quality is poor so needs new ink/toner cartridge.
3. The settings for ink cartridge alignment, paper orientation and margins are not correctly set.
4. The quality of print is not set properly.
5. The printer may not be connected to Wi-Fi.

Question 4

Why would no paper be seen when a printer is trying to print?

Answer 4

1. The parts of the printer are open.
2. Paper is not correctly placed in the printer.
3. The correct data cable is not being used or connected to the computer and the printer.
4. The right printer was not selected in the printer dialogue window.

Question 5

Why would a monitor have a blank screen?

Answer 5

1. The monitor is off/ or in power save mode.
2. The monitor power cable is not connected to an outlet/power strip.
3. The monitor data cable is not connected to the computer correctly.
4. The electrical outlet is not working properly (test device).

Question 6

Why would the screen of a computer be difficult to read?

Answer 6

1. The settings (colour, contrast and brightness) need to be adjusted.
2. A strong source of magnetism (speakers and amplifiers) is near the monitor.
3. The monitor is close to an external power source (fans and fluorescent lamps).
4. The monitor is close to a bright source of light.

Question 7

When would a computer’s battery need replacing?

Answer 7

1. The computer shuts off when the power adapter is unplugged.
2. The device powers off soon after use.
3. The battery icon indicates that no battery is detected or found.