How-Tos
Houston, We have a PC Problem – Step 7: Reinstall, Reconfigure or Replace
The only three things you ever have to do to repair any computer… Now that you have a good idea of which part has gone bad, you may begin the decision-making process of whether or not to reinstall/reconfigure your software (and any accompanying device driver software) or to replace a failing hardware component. But before […]
Houston, We have a PC Problem – Step 6: Learn how to troubleshoot
Okay, you’ve checked the simple stuff and now you know for sure something is “bad broke”. Here’s what to do to next. There are two ways of diagnosing computer problems: METHOD #1 – TROUBLESHOOTING TO THE “BAREBONES” This method, while not the quickest way to identify defective hardware parts is the most basic and the […]
Houston, We have a PC Problem – Step 5: Identify and Isolate the Problem
But first check the obvious… More times than we would like to admit, computer problems are often caused by simple human error. This is good because then the problems then are very easy to solve. Is the power on in the room? I know…just how dumb do I think I think people are…? Well, I […]
Houston, We have a PC Problem – Step 4: Figure Out What Happened
Play Detective and look for clues… The most difficult part of troubleshooting a computer is to find out what actually has happened or what is going on right now. I know it sounds crazy…you were standing right there when the dang computer went on the fritz. You know what happened, right? What you saw was […]
Houston, We have a PC Problem – Step 3: Never Underestimate a Positve Attitude
A Good Attitude Is Everything Now that you are calmer and refreshed, we can get down to work. First, let’s talk about your attitude. Do you have the RIGHT one in place? I know I just fussed at you for having a “right at any cost” mindset before. But this kind of attitude is different. […]
Houston, We have a PC Problem – Step 2: Calm Down…Don’t Panic
Don’t make things worst… Okay, so now that you have stopped and studied the situation, and you’ve have determined that it’s not a simple or obvious “glitch” and it looks pretty serious. What’s next? OK, now is the time to go get a cup of coffee, tea or a glass of your favorite cold beverage. […]
Houston, We have a PC Problem – Step1: Don’t Ignore Problems…
Stop and look at what is happening to the machine! Stop banging on the keyboard, talking on the phone. Just slow down and study the situation. Don’t ignore it and think you are too busy and you will “worry” about it later. Stop when you know you are in trouble. I learned this helpful lesson […]
Houston, We have a PC Problem – 8 Things to do right now
Eight Things You Should Do When Your Computer is Misbehaving Before you pick up that screwdriver and download one of the mini-guides you should read over these 8 tips on what to do when things start going badly. Step 1 – Don’t Ignore Problems Admit something is wrong with your computer. You can’t fix it […]
Is that Your PC I Smell Burning? –
How Power Surges Can Smoke Your PC Without The Right Surge Protector. Surge protectors are often the last thing most people buy when setting up a new computer system. Computer? Check! Flat panel monitor? Check! Printer? Check! Now to plug everything in. Oops, you don’t have enough outlets for all the different power plugs. Not […]
What’s Wrong with Your PC – A Detective Story
Computer Troubleshooting 101 Troubleshooting is really a kind of detective work. Like Sherlock Holmes, you have to use a bit of deduction, a smidgen of specialized knowledge with just plain old “mother wit” or common sense. Troubleshooting is an easy skill to pick up and learn. As a matter of fact, you probably use some […]