Computer Repair with Diagnostic Flowcharts
Troubleshooting PC Hardware Problems from Boot Failure to Poor Performance

A unique visual approach to troubleshooting PC hardware problems. Morris
Rosenthal creates a visual expert system for diagnosing component failure and
identifying conflicts. The seventeen diagnostic flowcharts at the core of this
book are intended for the intermediate to advanced hobbyist, or the beginning
technician. Following a structured approach to troubleshooting hardware reduces
the false diagnoses and parts wastage typical of the "swap 'till you drop"
school of thought.
Flowcharts include:
• Power Supply Failure
• Video Failure
• Video Performance
• Motherboard, CPU, RAM Failure
• Motherboard, CPU, RAM Performance
• IDE Drive Failure
• Hard Drive Boot and Performance
• CD or DVD Playback
• CD or DVD Recording Problem
• Modem Failure
• Modem Performance
• Sound Failure
• Sound and Game Controller Performance
• Network Failure
• Peripheral Failure
• SCSI Failure
• Conflict Resolution
Power Supply Failure excerpt:
The first step in power supply diagnostices is determining whether or
no the power comes on. How can you tell if the power is on? Can you
hear fans turning and drives motors spinning up, see little lights on the
front of the CPU case or hear any beeps? If the system case is hot (if
you get a shock) pull the plug immediately - you have a ground failure
and a short...
Reader Jerry D. Nickerson from Washington State says,"Handy flowcharts
with accompaning detailed descriptions. Very logically organized and layed
out. It provides you with a structured process for tracking down pc
problems. Highly recommended.
"Having a little troubleshooting experience would be helpful, but not
absolutely necessary. A fair number of pc problems have very simple solutions.
The author does not overlook the obvious(is it plugged in? are all the mute
buttons unchecked?) on way to making a proper diagnosis.
"If you are at all serious about providing your own tech support (or
support to friends and family), get this book. Money well spent."
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