Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
• If any hardware was recently installed in the system, try removing it.
• If any software was recently installed, try uninstalling it.
• If any drivers, updates, or hotfixes were recently installed, try rolling back, removing,
or updating them.
• Ensure that the system is free from malware such as viruses, rootkits, and spyware/
adware.
• Check with the motherboard manufacturer to see if an updated BIOS is available.
• Make sure that the processor, expansion cards, memory modules, and so on are fully
seated.
• Make sure that all cables are fully connected.
• Make sure that the operating system has the latest service pack and critical updates
installed.
• Check the System Log and Application Log in the Windows Event Viewer to see if
any additional error messages have been logged recently. For more information on the
Event Viewer, see
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/947321
.
Commercial Diagnostics Software
A large number of commercial third-party diagnostics programs are available for PC sys-
tems. These commercial programs are used by technicians to perform testing of new sys-
tems (often called
burn-in testing
) or testing of existing systems either in the shop or in
the field.
Here are some of the programs available:
•
AMIDiag Suite
—
www.ami.com
•
Micro-Scope
—
http://micro2000pcdiagnostics.com/
•
PC Diag Professional Suite
—
www.pc-diagnostics.com
•
PC Doctor Service Center
—
www.pcdservicecenter.com
•
Pc-Check
—
http://www.eurosoft-uk.com/
•
PC-Technician
—
www.windsortech.com
•
QuickTech Professional
—
www.uxd.com
Unfortunately, these programs can be expensive, and they are often designed more for the
professional technician rather than home or small business users. For most users, open-
source or otherwise free diagnostics provide excellent results.
