Computer Troubleshooting & Repair

Our technician has experience with a large variety of desktop computer and network issues. We specialize in Windows 98/NT/2000/XP Operating Systems and all varieties of PC hardware including desktops, laptops and servers. We have the expertise and experience to solve your computer problems efficiently and effectively. Here are a couple of the basic computer troubleshooting tips to try:

Your computer won't start?     

• How to tell if the computer has crashed.

• The mouse pointer doesn’t move

• When you move the mouse or type you hear a “beep”

• Your screen changes to all blue w/ white text that describes an error. Try to follow the directions.

• You get an error dialog box, or you see the words “not responding”

• First actions to take if the computer has crashed:

  • DON’T PANIC - it happens to everyone
  • Try Ctrl-Alt-Del to close the culprit program, then click “End Task”

  • If that doesn’t work, try Ctrl-Alt-Del again to restart your computer, or you may just have to push the power button on the computer.  Wait at least 30 seconds, then turn it on again.  That may solve the problem!

• Second actions to take - GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS:

  • Check your connections FIRST

  • For example, no power light, check power cable

  • Try swapping known good devices to pinpoint the problem (keyboard, mouse, monitor, etc.)

  • Call your TPOC

  • Use common sense & don’t force anything

  • Use only techniques that you are familiar with

   

PRINTER PROBLEMS

• Check connections - reinstall printer software (Call your TPOC!)
• If printout is streaky, clean print head or replace ink source
• Paper jams can be caused by small bits of paper in paper path
• Cancel & Purge print jobs
• Make sure correct printer is selected
• Find instructions for cleaning on web page (HP)

PREVENTIVE ACTIONS DURING COMPUTER USE

• Close applications that are running and you don’t need to keep open to free up memory & processor time.  Look at the taskbar and see the number of buttons you have representing programs running or windows opened. If you have more than about 4 buttons present, consider closing some, especially if you have less that 32 MB of memory.
• Save your work regularly!  This doesn’t prevent “CRASHES” but it does reduce the level of stress within the computer user in case of a crash!
• If your Win 95/98 computer “crashes” and you have to turn it off without going through the shut down procedure, don’t turn it off and on again too rapidly.  Wait 10-15 seconds before turning it back on.
• If your computer wants to run Scandisk, let it.

Please call us at (231) 775-6436 or send an e-mail to ahosner@chartermi.net for more information.