Computer hardware diagnostics. Preparing for component tests

It often happens that after long work without failure, the computer completely unexpectedly fails. At the same time, the manifestations of breakdowns and their causes can be very different. In any case, first of all, the computer must be diagnosed for malfunctions in order to understand which particular PC element is to blame for the problems.

PC won't turn on

If the computer does not respond after pressing the power button, there is most likely a power problem. A simpler case is the failure of the button itself.

Inspection

It is not uncommon for the switch on the back of the power supply to be set to the "Off" position. In this case, the solution to the problem will be the simplest.

Connectors

If a cursory external examination does not bring results, further diagnostics of the computer for malfunction will require more complex actions. Remove the cover of the system unit case. Don't forget to disconnect your PC from the network first.

See if any connectors have come loose from the motherboard. It is best to turn them all off and wipe them with alcohol or cologne. You will then have to refer to the manual that came with your motherboard. It will indicate where to connect all the wires.

This approach can eliminate several possible reasons malfunctions: oxidation of contacts; incorrect connection of wires; random breaks in the circuit.

Button

If the previous steps did not bring results, diagnosing the computer for a malfunction should continue after disconnecting the power button connector. As you can see during operation, it connects to two pins of the motherboard. Lock them with any metal object, such as a paper clip.

If the PC turns on after this, the power button is most likely broken. To temporarily eliminate the inconvenience caused by this problem, you can simply change the purpose of the "Reset" key by connecting its wire to the "Power On" connector on the motherboard. That is, to the one that was closed with a paper clip earlier. Now to start the PC you will need to press the restart button on the system unit.

Second possible malfunction with the same symptom - the "Reset" keys. In order to check this diagnosis, you should simply disconnect the wire coming from the reset button, and then try to turn on the computer in the usual way.

Nutrition problems

If a paper clip doesn't help, it's probably... motherboard does not receive the necessary nutrition. In this case, diagnosing the computer for malfunctions should continue by checking the ATX and P4 connectors.

ATX is a wide connector with 24 pins. P4 is square-shaped and has four wires going to it (sometimes the number can be up to eight). Simply unplug and then plug in the connectors again.

power unit

If previous actions did not lead to a positive result, the power supply has failed, but so far the probability of this is not one hundred percent. Further diagnostics of the computer at home will require connecting a known-good power supply to the PC.

The easiest way to complete this step is if you have several computers at home. Otherwise you will have to contact service center. Buying a new power supply to diagnose problems is not best option, because the device may be working properly, but the problem appears due to other problems.

Motherboard

After replacing the power supply, the computer does not turn on? We can say that in this case the diagnostics of the computer hardware is completed, but the motherboard has failed. It is best to replace it immediately; repairing such equipment is not worth it, since the price of this procedure may be higher than that of a new device.

Malfunctions

If problems arise unexpectedly and haphazardly during its operation, diagnosing the computer system should begin with updating the most important software. This includes the OS, drivers, antivirus. If no security measures are installed, you should install them and then conduct a full scan of your computer for viruses.

RAM

Often the stability of the PC is disrupted due to a malfunction RAM. There are many applications to check it. However, Memtest86+ is considered the best. You can download and use it absolutely free.

Before testing, you will need to prepare a bootable USB flash drive.

1. Download the program distribution kit. At this step, it is important to select USB INSTALLER and not ISO image.
2. After that run executable file. Its extension is EXE and its name starts with "Memtest".
3. A window will appear on the screen asking if you agree with the points license agreement. Since the program cannot be launched without confirmation, you should click on the “I Agree” button.
4. The next step will require you to select a USB drive to which the application data will be copied. Be careful: all information from the flash drive may be deleted during the installation process.
5. Now all you have to do is click on “Create”. Wait for the computer diagnostic program to complete installation, and then click “Finish”

Now restart your PC and enter BIOS. To do this, press the "DEL" button when the computer just starts to turn on. After launching the utility BIOS settings go to the "Advanced" menu. In it, select " First Boot Device" and switch the parameter to "USB".

Restart your computer again. If all the previous steps were completed correctly, the computer diagnostic program will load. The RAM check should start automatically. It is advisable to monitor the messages on the screen; sometimes before the test you will be asked to perform the procedure in safe mode. In this case, to start you need to press the "F1" button.

Memtest86+ runs 11 tests. In this case, after the completion of the last one, the procedure will begin again. If errors are found in the RAM, a red area with their description will appear on the monitor screen. In the case when after full check If no problems are detected, the application will display the message “Press ESC to exit”.

If errors are found during the tests, the RAM should be replaced. If there are several RAM sticks, diagnostics and repair of computers involve checking each of them separately. To do this you need to install them in system unit one at a time, and after the change, turn on the Memtest86+ utility again. Having identified the faulty device, you can continue to use the computer without it, losing some performance, but eliminating crashes.

Cooling system

If problems occur while running resource-intensive applications, there is a high probability that the PC's cooling system is not working efficiently enough. The problem is aggravated by dust that settles in radiators. As a result, the flow of cool air forced by the fan becomes unable to blow over all metal parts of the heat exchanger.

A program can be used to detect overheating. Diagnosing a computer for malfunctions will only require the user to install the appropriate application and monitor the sensor indicators.

AIDA64

One of best utilities for monitoring the computer temperature - AIDA64. After starting the program, you will need to select top menu item "Service", and then - "System stability test". A window with graphs will appear on the screen. They will display the temperature of all major PC components.

After clicking on the "Preferences" button, you can independently select which sensor data will be displayed on the diagrams. Since it is impossible to diagnose a computer for overheating when the computer is running in a gentle mode, you should run a special test. To check how the PC behaves while using the processor on maximum level, in the left top corner You should check the boxes next to "Stress CPU" and "Stress FPU".

It is advisable not to leave the device during this test and carefully monitor the data provided by the program. Since diagnosing a computer is only half the battle, in addition to identifying problems, you also need to prevent them from damaging your PC. If exceeded critical temperatures, you should stop the test and think about replacing the cooling system. It would be a good idea to blow out dust from the radiators, and then check the temperature again at maximum load.

Crashes during games

If errors in your computer occur during games or other applications that actively use graphics system, computer diagnostics can be performed using the FurMark program.

After launch, the settings window will open. It is advisable to select maximum resolution, supported by the monitor, and also check the "FullScreen" checkbox. Now all you have to do is click on “Stress Test”.

The screen will appear three-dimensional image, but it’s not him you should watch. Your main focus should be on the graph that appears below. It shows the temperature of the video processor. Upon reaching critical values Press the "ESC" button to complete the benchmark.

Image defects

If the monitor displays incorrect colors while working, this problem is often solved by simply replacing the cable. Diagnostics initially involve checking components. Try tightening the screws that secure the plug. If this does not help, you can wipe the contacts with alcohol, and also check the functionality of the cable on another computer or monitor.

Previous actions did not lead to success? Update or reinstall your video driver. It is also a good idea to test the graphics card for overheating, as described above.

No sound

How to diagnose a computer and identify a malfunction if the sound disappears? Typically, such problems appear after installing a new video card or graphics adapter. Almost all similar modern devices come with an HDMI output through which audio can be output. And along with the increase in sound-producing devices, there is a risk of incorrect auto-tuning.

Launch any player and turn on music in it. Click on the speaker icon in the system tray, and then click on “Playback Devices”. In the left column of the window that opens, click right click mouse on each device, and indicating to the OS that it should be used as the default.

If the sound still does not appear, diagnosing your computer at home will require additional actions. Check the wires that connect and output the audio card. The easiest way to do this is to disconnect the plug from the computer connector and connect it to any other audio device (player, mobile phone).

If there is still no sound from the speakers, try replacing the cable. Is the audio system silent even after this procedure? This means that the computer is fully operational, but the “acoustics” require replacement.

HDD malfunctions

How to diagnose a computer when the hard drive does not appear in Explorer or in the BIOS? You should start by checking the cables. The easiest way is to use a cable from the HDD that works stably. If this measure does not help, there is a high probability of failure of the drive itself. In this case, further attempts at repair at home will not lead to positive results. Only a specialist can perform data recovery from this HDD.

If information from hard drive can be read, but it is impossible to load the OS stopped on it, which means the MBR ( boot record) was damaged. To resolve this issue, you must boot from installation disk Windows. In the menu, click on “Repair your computer”, and then click on “Bootloader recovery”.

Hi all! Many PC owners often catch themselves thinking that their machine is not working fast enough, or “freezes,” so to speak.

In this case, it is worth testing your “iron friend” and identifying the reason for this behavior. Today I will tell you how to check the speed of your computer. But first, let's decide why we need to do this.

Why is verification needed?

You should spend valuable time on tests for a number of reasons:

• Testing will allow you to understand which tasks your computer can perform easily and which are difficult for it.
• If you are going to purchase a new PC or laptop, then using the results of the check, you can choose the most suitable model that will meet all your needs.
• You'll know which components are slow and can replace them during the upgrade.
• You can compare the characteristics of your computer with the PC of one of your friends and find out whose PC is the most powerful.

How to do this?

Well, checking speed is a very necessary and important thing, but how can you find out the speed, how can it be measured? In order to find out the speed of your computer, you will need a PC with Windows installed on it, the usual set of applications for this OS, and my instructions, which I will describe below.

You can check with with the help of three simple ways:

1. using the Windows Experience Level Index;
2. using the dispatcher Windows tasks, which should already be familiar to you;
3. based on the use of special programs.

Let's look at each of them in detail.

First way

Windows OS has one extremely useful utility program called " Performance Index" This application takes measurements of your PC's performance, shows you how each one is rated, and, of course, evaluates overall system performance. At the same time the size overall indicator does not exceed the lowest value among the elements.

In versions 7, 8 of Windows and Vista, in the Control Panel you need the “Performance Counters and Tools” section (in Windows xp you cannot check performance in this way).

If we talk about the 7th version: the maximum score is 7.9, the average is from 3.5 to 5. If the performance level index is more than five, then you don’t have to worry about anything. However, if the scores are below the “3.5” rating, then your PC should either be replaced with a new one or upgraded to the old one (which will be much cheaper).

In Vista the maximum is 5.9, and in 8 it is 9.9.

In Windows 8.1 and 10, performance checking is carried out using software PowerShell. To open it in search bar on start screen write “PowerShell”, in the search results, right-click on the icon of the found utility and select context menu"Run as administrator" line.

IN Windows program PowerShell type winsat formal and press Enter. As a result of these actions you will see the following:

There is one small feature: if you are doing the test on a laptop, it must be connected to a 220V network, otherwise the program will generate an error.

The whole process may take a few minutes, and the result will be saved here:
C:\Windows\Performance\WinSAT\DataStore\...Formal.Assessment (Recent).WinSAT.xml.

In the program Windows PowerShell You cannot test the system without administrator rights; you can only view the performance ratings given as a result of the previous test. To do this, write down "Get-CimInstance Win32_WinSAT" and press Enter. As a result you will see:

Second way

If you want to have an extremely accurate idea of ​​what the speed of your system is, then this method will be most convenient for you. Its main advantage over the above is that it is able to demonstrate not only how fast the computer itself is, but also how fast its individual elements are.

To determine the quality of work using this method, you must perform the following steps:

1. Press simultaneously Alt keys, Ctrl, Delete.
2. Click on “Task Manager”.
3. In the task manager, select the tab called “Performance”.

In “Performance” you will see how well your computer is functioning. If the level of quality of its work is insufficient, then you can try to upgrade your machine.

Graphs allow you to determine what is associated slow work PC: with CPU load or low RAM. The green line indicates great job, yellow - about the acceptable level, but if the line is red, then it is urgently necessary to take action.

Third way

This method involves using special programs. Eat special applications, which are created specifically to collect data about the state of the computer.

There's just a ton of all kinds of tests, numbers and information. With these products you can get the most comprehensive data about the performance of your PC. What kind of programs are these? Here is a list of those that I have used at least once:

Everest. Created primarily for analysis of PC configuration, but provides large number various tests.

SiSoftware Sandra. On at the moment most best option, if you want to test the performance level.

3Dmark. His main specialization is testing computer video cards. Consists of huge amount various texturing tests, working with 3D modeling, etc. There is also a comprehensive testing option, reminiscent of a video game that is played not by you, but by the program. During its work, it evaluates the stability of the video card during heavy loads and measures the frame rate.

PCMark. This is lightweight software designed for limited use. Serves only to check performance. Allows you to perform integral testing of any PC component. Main feature is the ability to compare the performance of your own computer with the world average.

You can download these programs from the official Internet resources of their developers online.

Well, that’s all, dear friends! In the end, I would like to tell you about a training course, the effectiveness of which I was able to “test” on myself. We are talking about the course Secrets successful work at the computer».

What distinguishes this course from a huge number of other similar courses is primarily the author’s high professionalism and simplicity of presentation. All the intricacies of working on a PC are presented so simply and clearly that even elderly people, who are known to shy away from modern technology, within a couple of months of training they turn into experienced users.

I wish you to be computer literate people, and I and my blog will help you become so. Therefore, do not forget to subscribe to updates and follow the release of a new article.

Share information on social media. networks, see you!

Sincerely! Abdullin Ruslan

We diagnose the computer ourselves. It's always unpleasant when your computer crashes. Moreover, it often happens that this happens at the most inopportune moment. But it should be understood that no type of technology can work perfectly all the time. One way or another, you can’t do without breakdowns.

But not everything is so bad, because the computer can be repaired. But before you start repairing, you need to do diagnostics in order to find the cause of the malfunction.

The first thing you may encounter is that the computer cannot be turned on. This can happen for various reasons.

Problems are divided into 2 types:
software type of problems;
hardware malfunctions.

You can determine where exactly the breakdown occurred as follows.
When the computer starts to turn on, a message appears on the screen. It refers to an error directly in the operating system. This means that this is where the problem lies.

The very first action that needs to be done is to boot into safe mode by pressing the F8 key. Next, run the “System Restore” function to an earlier period.

If the computer still does not turn on, you will have to reinstall the entire Windows system. In the service center where they produce laptop repair it's not that difficult to do.

It happens that such a situation arises: a black screen with all indicators working (the motherboard, the cooler on the processor are in working order, and Windows boot doesn't happen). In this case, you need to check the system unit.
This is easy to do: see if the boot indicator (HDD) is on. If everything is in order, but only the monitor does not work. You can simply disconnect and reconnect the cable.

Another problem is when this indicator does not light up. In this case, you will have to check whether the wires are connected normally, as well as all devices. This includes a video card, a power supply, and a hard drive. To do this, the wall of the system unit (side) is removed.
The most important thing to do is remove the RAM and install it in another slot. If there are 2 or more planks, then exchange them with each other.

If nothing still happens, then further actions– contact the service center.

The following signs indicate problems with the power supply:
the computer turns off and starts rebooting on its own;
suddenly starts to freeze.

This may also indicate that a component has overheated. Usually this is either a processor or a video card.
The following signs also indicate problems with the video card - sudden start, turning off the screen, the image has defects (the color changes on its own).

In such cases, you first need to clean the computer (mechanically, from dust).
Sometimes, if there is a problem with the power supply, the PC may turn on by itself when power is applied.

In any case, if the cause of the breakdown is not fully understood and there is no confidence in the actions being taken, then it is better to contact the mechanics at the service center.

Programs necessary for computer diagnostics. Checking the PC power button, power supply, cables and each component device.

from 270 rub. RUB

PC or personal computer is a complex device that consists of many subsystems and components. All elements of the computer are in constant interaction. That is why, when a computer suddenly breaks down, it is very difficult to tell at first glance what happened and which system failed.

In order to discover where the problem is hiding, you need a complete diagnosis of the computer.

Below we will look at what problems can arise with your computer and what to do about them.

The computer won't turn on

The computer does not respond when turned on - this is one of the most common problems, which are addressed to PC diagnostic centers. If the device does not respond after pressing the power button, the problem is most likely a power issue. The button itself may also break - this is the simplest case.

If the computer does not turn on, do not rush to start it full diagnostics computer - first look to see if the power cable has come loose, check if there is electricity in the room. Try unplugging the cable and reinserting it. Also check surge protector.

Sometimes the switch on the back of the power supply accidentally ends up in the “Off” position - if the unit is under a table, this switch can be touched by your foot, for example. In this case, simply move the toggle switch to the “On” position and press the PC power button again.

If external examination of the PC’s condition does not bring results, further diagnostics of the computer will require more complex actions. We would like to warn you right away: if you are not well versed in hardware and software, it is better not to take risks, but to take your PC to a service center. The price of diagnosing a computer in a specialized company is low, but you will receive a guarantee for the services performed and will not damage the device unknowingly.

Connectors

So, if external power is connected and everything should work, but it doesn’t, open the cover of the system unit, but first disconnect the PC from the electricity. Check if all connectors are connected to the motherboard.

Even if they are all in their places, it is better to turn them off and thoroughly wipe them with any alcohol-containing product. Now all the wires need to be connected back.

Wiping the wires can eliminate several causes of PC inoperability:

• Incorrect wire switching
• The appearance of oxide on the contacts
• Breaks in the circuit.

Problems with the button

If and the above steps did not help turn on the computer, diagnosing the computer malfunction continues with the power button connector. This wire connects to two pins on the motherboard. They need to be closed with any metal product - even a pushpin will do.

In addition, the computer may stop turning on due to a short circuit in the PC reset button. To check if the problem is really in the button, you just need to disconnect the wire that goes to the reset button and try to turn on the PC using the standard method.

If applying metal does not work, the reason the device is not working may be because the motherboard is not receiving power.

Then diagnosing computer malfunctions should consist of checking the P4 and ATX connectors.

This is easiest to do if you have several PCs at home, otherwise you will definitely have to take the computer to a service center. Buy new block power supply simply in order to diagnose the computer hardware does not make sense, since the unit costs a lot, and the problem may not be in it at all.

Motherboard

Even after installing a new power supply, does your PC refuse to turn on? Then the diagnostics of the computer hardware is completed, and we can say with confidence that the motherboard is broken. MP repair is usually not worth it, so it makes sense to immediately replace it. To do this, contact our service center - we will select the most suitable motherboard in terms of characteristics and successfully install it in your PC instead of the failed device.

Problems during operation

If problems with your PC arise during operation, randomly and suddenly, then diagnosing the computer system should begin with a software update. So, it’s worth updating the operating system, reinstalling drivers and antivirus. If you didn’t have any installed on your PC before antivirus programs, you need to install them and completely check your computer for infection.

RAM

Quite often, the PC begins to work unstable due to problems with RAM. You can check its operation using some programs. For example, diagnostics of computer operation in terms of checking RAM are carried out using the Memtest86+ utility. You need to download the distribution and transfer it to a bootable USB flash drive. When the program is correctly recorded on the USB flash drive, you need to restart the computer and enter the BIOS.

Once the PC starts to boot, press the "DEL" button. The “Bios” setting will be launched, you need to go to the “Advanced” menu. There you are interested in “First Boot Device"- you need to switch to the “USB” item.

Now restart your PC again. If everything was done correctly, a program will launch to diagnose the health of the computer. The RAM diagnostic will start automatically, and you just monitor the process.

Memtest86+ runs eleven tests. If errors are detected in the RAM, a red notification will appear on the monitor describing the errors. If there are no problems with RAM, the message “Press ESC to exit” will appear.

If Memtest86+ still finds errors in the operation of the RAM, the RAM needs to be changed.

Cooling system

If system crashes occur when working in resource-intensive applications, most likely the PC is not being cooled effectively enough. In addition, dust accumulates in radiators, which further complicates the cooling process.

You can also use the program to check if your PC is overheating. For example, AIDA64 may be useful. Run this program and select “System stability test” from the “Tools” menu. Graphs will appear on the screen displaying the temperature of the main PC components.

Image problems

If the PC distorts colors, it is usually enough to simply change the cable that connects the screen and the system unit. Diagnostics of computer devices initially involves checking auxiliary components.

Having problems with desktop computer there may be various reasons. By following our advice, you can quickly fix any problem.

PC failure can manifest itself in different ways. For example, after pressing the power button, the machine shows no signs of “life”. Or the computer turns on, but individual components are not functioning. The first step is to figure out what actually works and what doesn’t. Are the motherboard LEDs on? Are the fans spinning? Is the monitor receiving an image signal? Are BIOS messages displayed? Based on these observations, most problems can be classified into six categories (see below). For each category, we provide instructions consisting of sequential steps with which you can eliminate the possibility of simple faults, so that you can then proceed to more complex diagnostics. If you are not successful at any step, move on to the next one until you solve the problem. Even if you stop at some step, the results of your testing will subsequently become a good help for the service center employees.

1. No signs of life

If the computer does not respond in any way when you press the power button, you should first check the power supply or the button itself. We will help you localize the problem.

1.1. EXTERNAL INSPECTION. First of all, check that the power cord is well connected and that the surge protector is turned on. It is possible that the power supply button on the back of the computer is in the “Off” position.

1.2. CASE CONNECTORS. Open the PC case and check that the connectors are securely connected and that the cable is not damaged in the area between the switches and LEDs of the case and the motherboard - perhaps some connector has come loose from the plug. If one or more cables are disconnected, open your motherboard manual and check to see if the cables are properly connected to the plugs.

1.3. POWER BUTTON. If the case connectors are connected correctly or reconnecting them does not bring results, disconnect all connectors from the motherboard. Then short the two contacts labeled "Power Switch" using a paperclip. If the computer turns on, there are two options. The first is a faulty power button on the case. In this case, you need to connect both connectors labeled “Reset Switch” to the contacts labeled “Power Switch” on the motherboard. From this moment on, the PC will be turned on using the reset button, and the power button will no longer perform its function. Another reason for this malfunction may be a short circuit in the reset button: regular button in this case it will not work, and starting the PC will only be possible by closing two contacts on the motherboard. This assumption will be confirmed by the ability to start a PC with the reset button disabled. In this case, leave the power button connected and disconnect the reset button. After all these steps, your PC will most likely turn on again without any problems. If even when using an office paper clip the computer refuses to “start”, then you should check the power system.

1.4. MOTHERBOARD POWER SUPPLY. Check that all power supply connectors are correctly connected to the motherboard. We are talking not only about a wide ATX connector with 24 pins, but also an additional four-pin P4 connector for powering the processor.

1.5. POWER UNIT. Next, you need to exclude the possibility of failure of the power supply. To do this, connect a working power supply to the PC - for example, from a second computer. Connect the 24-pin ATX connector and the four- or eight-pin P4 connector of the working computer to the motherboard of the faulty PC and try to start it. If after this it turns on, then the whole problem is in the power supply, which will need to be replaced.

1.6. MOTHERBOARD. If all the measures described above did not help, then most likely the motherboard has failed, which is best replaced, since repairs not covered by warranty are usually not worth it. One way or another, replacing the motherboard means completely disassembling and reassembling your PC. But it is recommended to proceed with this procedure only if other possible malfunctions have been excluded.

2. PC works, but no image

After turning on, the screen remains black, although the power supply, CPU and video card fans are running and the LEDs on the motherboard are lit.

2.1. CHECKING THE MONITOR. The first thing you need to do is rule out a trivial malfunction by answering the question: does the monitor turn on? If not, there may be a power problem: the cable is unplugged from the display or wall outlet, or the screen has a switch that is set to the Off position. If the monitor turns on, open OSD menu and check if the signal source is selected correctly (VGA/D-Sub, DVI, HDMI).

2.2. SOUND AND LIGHT SIGNALS. If the monitor is not receiving an image signal, the motherboard will often let you know by sending beeps or lights to help you figure out what the problem is. Consult your motherboard manual to determine what the signals mean. One of the typical defects reported in this manner may be faulty or incorrect installed modules RAM, which the motherboard, depending on the model, warns about with sound signal or burning LED lamps.

2.3. RESET BUTTON. Short circuit The reset button may also be the cause of the above symptoms. Perform the check (point 1.3).

2.4. BIOS. Sometimes the reason similar problems with the launch there may be incorrect settings BIOS. To reset BIOS settings, find the Clear CMOS jumper on the motherboard. We are talking about three contacts, two of which are connected by a jumper. Remember starting position jumper, then pull it out and connect another pair of contacts with it, wait at least ten seconds. After this, set it back to its original position. If the system board has a reset button, press it. If the computer turns on, check the BIOS settings. In most cases you need to select correct mode operation of the SATA controller, which, starting from Windows XP, is “AHCI” and not “IDE”. After this, the problem should disappear. One of the possible reasons for lost BIOS settings may be a dead motherboard battery - more about that we'll talk in paragraph 3.1.

2.5. RAM. Most motherboards indicate faulty memory using sound or light (LED) signals (see paragraph 2.2). However, we recommend checking the functionality of the RAM modules without waiting for a warning signal. There must be at least two modules installed in the computer - remove one and try to boot the computer with it. If the PC does not turn on with this module, try starting the system with another module installed. If the computer starts with only one memory module, this usually means that the other one is faulty.

2.6. VIDEO CARD. Among PC components, the problem should first of all be looked for in the image signal source - graphic card. If your computer has an integrated graphics card, remove the discrete card and test the system with the integrated GPU. Otherwise, check if the PC works with a different graphics card. If yes, then your discrete or integrated video card is faulty.

2.7. CPU. A faulty processor may also be the reason why the computer works but does not produce an image signal. Therefore, if possible, test the performance of your PC with another compatible processor before the next very difficult step.

2.8. MOTHERBOARD. Due to the fact that everyone else possible sources problems have now been ruled out, the last “suspect” remains the motherboard. The problem here could be, for example, in the CMOS chip in which the BIOS is stored, or in the PCIe bus to which the video cards are connected. Troubleshooting in most cases does not pay off, so the best solution will immediately replace the motherboard.

3. BIOS stops working

The BIOS's job is to prepare the computer to boot operating system. If in progress BIOS operation When problems arise, error messages will usually appear that will help you localize them.

3.1. BIOS SETTINGS. With computers released four or five years ago, situations often occur when they suddenly refuse to boot. The reason lies in the BIOS settings. In this case, the message “Please enter Setup to recover BIOS setting | CMOS Date/Time Not Set." You can usually enter the BIOS using the “F1” or “Del” button when you turn on the PC. After this, you need to restore all the basic settings - for example, date, boot device sequence, or such important parameter, as the operating mode of a SATA controller (AHCI). After restoring the settings, there should be no problems booting the PC. However, the reason that the settings were lost most likely lies in the following: there is a round flat-plate battery on the motherboard, which is an “emergency” power source for the CMOS chip so that the latter does not lose the settings. If this battery is discharged, it must be replaced, otherwise the BIOS settings will be lost every time the PC is turned off.

3.2. BOOT DEVICE SEQUENCE. If the BIOS reports that it cannot find bootable media, then there may be several reasons. First, check the boot device sequence in the settings. In modern motherboards To do this, you need to perform two operations. In the boot options you will find the item “Boot priority”, which lists components such as hard drives, removable media or optical drives. Hard drive must have the highest boot priority.

3.3. DISK FAILURE. If the drive does not appear in the media selection menu in the BIOS, open the PC and check that the power cables and interface cables of the corresponding media are securely connected. If the problem is not solved, test the drive with a different cable, in a HDD enclosure with USB interface or on another computer. If this does not help, then most likely the media has failed as a result of damage to the controller. In this case, most likely only a specialist will be able to restore the data at a considerable cost. If you regularly create system images and backups data, then you will only need to replace the disk and copy the data. Otherwise you will have to complete reinstallation systems.

3.4. LOAD SECTOR. If boot device appears in the BIOS and you can view its contents when connected to another PC, it is most likely damaged boot sector. This happens quite often when a redistribution attempt fails. disk space or when Linux removal, used as a second operating system. To resolve the error, boot from installation DVD or disk disaster recovery. During the boot process, select “Repair your computer” or “PC recovery options”, then click on “System Restore”, and then follow the wizard’s instructions. If this does not solve the problem, then try restoring manually. Boot your PC again as described above, and in the system recovery settings, open the window command line. Enter the following commands in it:

bootrec /fixmbr bootrec /fixboot

bcdedit ;/export C:\bcd_1 c: cd boot attrib bcd -s -h -r ren bcd bcd_2 bootrec /RebuildBcd

After this, Windows should boot. If you still have difficulties, follow the instructions below.

4. OS cannot boot (Windows logo appears, but system does not start)

Your computer starts to boot, but just before the user interface"freezes". With such symptoms, you can rule out many problems with the hardware and BIOS.

(to be continued)