Computer-Lite PC Troubleshooting Basics

PC Troubleshooting Basics

So, you want your computer to DO something? Or to NOT do something? I've put together this help page to assist you in taming the beast within....your PC. Your suggestions are welcome. I hope you will find this area helpful.

Basics | Hardware Problems | Software Problems

Most computer problems are related to a "broken user;" that is to say, we either forgot to do something, did too much of something, did the wrong thing at the wrong time, or didn't know how to use a program in the first place. The first thing to ask yourself when your computer acts up is: "What was I doing the moment this happened?" (No fair saying "nothing.") Often the key to your problem lies in your answer to this, so consider carefully.
Be sure to TAKE NOTES when solving a problem! It is such a hard habit to get into, and I'm one of the worst to be sure, but it is vitally important. Why? First, so that you can remember what you've already tried. Second, so if you end up getting help elsewhere, you can show them what you've tried. Finally, if you find a solution, you can refer to it the next time you have this problem.
Ever hear of the old adage: "the right tool for the right job?" That saying was never more true than when you're trying to get your PC to cooperate. Many problems come up because the software being used isn't capable of doing what is needed. Be sure the program has the features you need.
Know how to use the tools of the trade.....no matter how powerful or options-packed your software is, it won't do you any good if you cannot use the features. Always review the "ReadMe" files and Help files thoroughly. Also, most software manufacturers have help and support available over the internet...for example, if you need help with Window98, go to Microsoft's web site at: http://www.microsoft.com and look around.
New programs are always guilty until proven innocent. You may or may not have problems with the new software itself; you might notice other programs misbehaving. This is due to what's called a software conflict....files in the new program that don't get along with other files, or else the new program has corrupt files, or corrupted your .ini or registry files during the installation. If you suspect this, uninstall the new program and see if you can gain some cooperation.
Installing multiple new programs at once is asking for problems. For one thing, some systems do not seem to like having too much added at once. The other reason is that if you should run into problems, it's much harder to figure out what program was responsible. You are better off adding new programs one at a time, then waiting a few days or a week to make sure all is well before adding another. Kind of like introducing new foods to a baby!
An ounce of prevention, blah blah blah.....do regular maintenance on your system to head off problems. To do:
Backup important data files weekly
Delete unneeded files often to free up space
Run Scandisk monthly and Defrag monthly to check for disk problems and to optimize files. (Go to Start,Programs, Accessories, System Tools for these features)
Go "behind the scenes" and give all your computer cables a firm nudge to keep them well connected
Clean your mouse occasionally by removing its cover and blowing all the gunk out of it (a swab dipped in alcohol doesn't hurt)
Clean keyboard occasionally by blowing canned air in it, using one of those mini vacuums, or turning it upside down and blowing the gunk out.


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