Computer Diagnostics

Overview

PC and MAC computers can do weird things with no apparent reason. However, these problems can be frequently attributed to memory management issues or the lack thereof.

So, the first step in diagnosing a computer problem is to completely shutdown the computer, turn it back on after a few minutes, and then log back in.

• If the problem goes away, you can attribute it to memory management, and just be advised that you may have to reboot your computer every couple of weeks.

• If the problem persists after rebooting, you may need it to be looked at by a computer technical professional.  But, before you rush off to the computer ER, consider some of the more common problems and solutions provided below.

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem: At times my home computer is unresponsive. When I open up a web browser, I get redirected to a web page that is unfamiliar.

Cause: Most likely your computer is infected with Spyware.

Corrective Action: Make sure you have an Anti-Spyware program installed and that your version is updated. Then run a full system scan.

Problem: Some pages don't display in my current default web browser.

Cause: Some web developers develop only for the most popular browsers and tend to place dynamic html code in their sites.

Corrective Action: Not all web browsers are created equal and therefore using another web browser might fix the problem. Always try Internet Explorer, Safari (on a MAC), Firefox, and Netscape in that order.

Problem: WebMail is acting sluggish when I log in or when I click on my inbox

Cause: The WebMail system has a database backend. When a user logs in or when he/she clicks on the inbox, this database dynamically creates a new index of the messages for display. If your inbox has a lot of messages, creating the index can take time - not just when you log in, but even as you are working and new messages are being received behind the scenes.

Corrective Action: Move important emails from the inbox into folders. This single action will make an important positive impact on your WebMail performance.

Problem: Every now and then I get a blue screen during normal operations of my PC.

Cause: It is most likely a system file corruption or a virus.

Corrective Action: Make sure your Anti-Virus program is up-to-date. Then execute a scan. If no viruses are found, it is likely a system file corruption and a reinstall of the OS is required.

Problem: My wireless connection tends to be slow, but I know that I am close to the wireless access point.

Cause: Most likely your wireless card is picking up a wireless access point that is weak (has fewer bars).

Corrective Action: PCs using WinXP should right-mouse click on their wireless LAN adapter in lower system tray. Choose "view available wireless LANS" and select the wireless LAN with the most bars (greatest signal strength). If you are using other than WinXP, you will have to consult your wireless card's manufacturer and its related software to choose wireless LAN with greater signal strength.

MAC OS X using airport card: In upper right hand corner of screen is the Airport LAN selector. It depicts the signal strength (in bars) of your current wireless connection. If there are 2 bars or less, try choosing another wireless LAN.

Problem: My USB device is not being "seen" by the computer.

Cause: USB devices can be a bit quirky sometimes due to driver issues.

Corrective Action:
1. Try reinstalling the drivers with the device unplugged. Then after the drivers are installed, plug the device back in.
2. Try another USB port. Most computers come with 2 or more ports, each controlled by a different USB controller.
3. The device is most likely faulty. But before you throw it out, try calling or emailing your USB manufacturer. They may help you fix the problem with firmware updates.

Problem: My mouse pointer jumps around and it acts like it is skipping across screen on its own.

Cause: Most likely you have a roller mouse (as opposed to an infrared mouse). Roller mice tend to pick up dirt and deposits on the interior rollers.

Corrective Action: Flip mouse over (on its back), take the roller ball cover off, remove the debris on the rollers with a paper clip or with a sharp object. Use compressed air, a forceps, or your fingers to remove the fuzz balls. Clean with isopropyl alcohol if needed.

Problem: My computer is making noises that sound like an airplane taking off.

Cause: All computers come with fans that keep the air circulating around the electronics. Over time, a component of the fan may wear out, and their smooth circulation motion degrades as the tiny ball bearings deteriorate.

Corrective Action: You can replace the power supply and/or CPU fan. These parts can be purchased from most local retail computer shops.

Problem: My computer's hard drive is making clunky noises or it sounds very abnormal.

Cause: All hard drives spin while the computer is turned on, and they spin using very small ball bearings. Over time the ball bearing wear out and eventually will render your hard drive useless.

Corrective Action: Replace hard drive as soon as you can. Our experience suggests that once you start hearing noises from the hard drive, you have probably (at most) a couple of months before you will loose functionality of your computer.