Problem Steps Recorder is a new feature of Windows 7 that can help support
personnel troubleshoot problems on a user's computer. Problem Steps Recorder
allows users to record the steps they're performing that are causing the
issue they are concerned with. Problem Steps Recorder does this by capturing
a series of screen shots for each mouse click the user performs or each keyboard
input the user enters. The user can also add optional comments if desired.
These screen shots together with n embedded description of each user action
and optional comments, if any, are saved as a single web archive or .mht file.
This .mht file can then be emailed to help desk personnel who can open the file
in Internet Explorer and use it to help troubleshoot the user's problem.
You have encountered a problem. You have modified a document but it won't
save. When a problem like this happens you can start by trying to resolve
the problem yourself using the built-in troubleshooters in Windows 7.
These troubleshooters can be run by opening the Action Center, the central
place in Windows 7 where you can view alerts and take actions that can help
keep Windows running smoothly on your computer. The Action Center provides
access to the built-in troubleshooters on the platform. You can use these
troubleshooters to try to resolve the problem you're solving.
Windows 7 is also configured by default to periodically check for routine
maintenance issues and fix any problems it might find.
If remote assistance is used within your organization to support users,
you can ask a support person to assist you with your problem. If remote
assistance is not being used, you can use Problem Steps Recorder to record
the details of your problem.
To start Problem Steps Recorder type "record steps" in the Start menu
search box. Click Start Record to begin capturing screen shots when mouse
clicks or keyboard input are performed. Now repeat the steps of your
problem. You can add an optional comment to call out an area of the screen
you select. Click Stop Record when you are finished reproducing the problem.
Save the compressed .mht file and email it or otherwise deliver it to the
support person. The support person will extract the .mht file and open it
in Internet Explorer. Each screen shot has an accompanying description of
the action performed.