Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide for Common Computer Issues

This guide provides step-by-step solutions for frequent technical problems encountered with computer systems. Follow these checks methodically before seeking further technical support.

I. System Does Not Power On

• 1. Verify the power cable is securely plugged into both the wall outlet and the system unit.

• 2. Confirm the power supply unit (PSU) meets the voltage and wattage requirements specified by the motherboard.

• 3. Reseat the memory modules (RAM) by removing and firmly reinserting them.

• 4. Try replacing the memory modules with known-good ones.

• 5. Clear the motherboard CMOS according to the manufacturer's instructions (usually involves jumper or battery removal).

• 6. Remove any non-essential expansion cards (e.g., dedicated graphics, sound cards) and test if the system powers on.

II. No Display Output After Power On

• 1. Ensure the monitor is powered on (check its power indicator).

• 2. Check the power cable connection to the monitor and the system unit.

• 3. Verify the video cable (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, DVI) is securely connected to both the graphics output (on motherboard or dedicated GPU) and the monitor.

• 4. Adjust the monitor's brightness control; it might be set too low. Consult the monitor manual.

• 5. Wake the monitor if it's in "power-saving" mode (move mouse, press keyboard key).

III. BIOS Settings Not Saving

• 1. Check the CMOS battery voltage. If below 2.8V, replace it with a new CR2032 battery and reconfigure BIOS settings.

• 2. Re-enter the BIOS Setup (usually by pressing Del, F2, or F10 during boot) and ensure the system time and date are correctly set.

IV. "Bootable Device Not Found" Error

• 1. Ensure both the SATA/IDE data cable and power cable are securely connected to the hard drive/SSD and motherboard/PSU.

• 2. Test the drive in another system or use diagnostic tools to check for physical damage/failure.

• 3. Verify that a bootable operating system is correctly installed on the drive.

V. Blue Screen or System Freeze During Boot/OS Entry

• 1. Reseat memory modules and any expansion cards.

• 2. Remove any recently installed hardware. Uninstall associated drivers or software.

• 3. Try replacing the memory modules with known-good ones.

VI. Slow Operating System Boot Times

• 1. Use reputable hard drive diagnostic software (e.g., manufacturer tools, CrystalDiskInfo) to check the health of the primary drive (HDD/SSD).

• 2. Ensure the system drive (usually C:) has sufficient free disk space (recommended >15-20%).

• 3. Confirm the CPU cooling fan is spinning correctly and not obstructed.

VII. System Randomly Restarts

• 1. Confirm the CPU cooling fan is spinning correctly and CPU temperatures are within normal limits.

• 2. Check if the system's reset button is stuck or being accidentally pressed.

• 3. Perform a full system scan using updated antivirus/anti-malware software.

• 4. Reseat memory modules and any expansion cards.

• 5. Suspect insufficient power delivery. Test with a known-good power supply unit (PSU) of adequate wattage.

VIII. USB Devices Not Detected

• 1. If using a high-power device (e.g., external HDD), connect it to a powered USB hub or ensure its separate power adapter is used.

• 2. Try different USB ports on the system. Inspect ports for physical damage or debris.

• 3. Enter BIOS Setup and confirm USB Controller support is enabled.

Important Notes:

• Safety First: Always power off the computer and disconnect the power cable before opening the case or touching internal components.

• Documentation: Refer to your specific motherboard and component manuals for detailed instructions.

• Warranty: Opening the case or replacing components may void warranties. Check manufacturer policies first.

• Complex Issues: If problems persist after following these steps, contact qualified technical support or the hardware manufacturer.