Maintaining Your IT System

4. Identifying Problems

PC problems are often hard to pinpoint. It may be difficult to know whether it is a hardware or software problem.

4.1 Many faults occur intermittently or seemingly at random. These are often the most difficult to cure.

• If the fault can be replicated, identify precisely what triggers the problem.

4.2 Hardware faults usually affect all used applications. If a fault only appears with one application program, it is probably a software problem.

4.3 There are diagnostic tools you can use to test hardware. Look for software from security firms like Symantec or McAfee.

4.4 Unusual noises coming from the PC may indicate hardware faults.

• Intermittent whirring noises can be caused by faulty fans. Stop using the computer immediately; overheating can destroy the central processor.
• Whining, knocking noises, or a recurrent 'ching ching' sound, may mean a hard disk is about to fail. If you have not already backed up your data, do so immediately.
• Any unusual noises should be dealt with promptly. If you have no in-house expertise then contact your supplier.

4.5 A failing monitor sometimes produces sudden changes in the picture on the screen. It may shrink down and then go back to its original size, or wobble and flicker - or you may hear strange noises.

• Do not assume a monitor has failed just because you cannot see an image on the screen. Check to see if the brightness or contrast has been turned down and that all cables are connected.

4.6 If the output from a laser or inkjet printer is streaky, patchy or missing colours, the problem may be an empty cartridge.

• Try new cartridges.
• It is usually cheaper to replace budget and mid-range printers than to repair them.