From those 50s-60s heavy calculator machines to the latest compact laptops, computers over time have gone through a phenomenal evolution, and probably that’s what makes them among the most fascinating technical inventions human has ever seen. It’s not just the size and shape that’s gone amended, there’s a significant change in their functions and features as well as the components they are built of. Amidst all, one major thing that comes out in favor of the users is, computer repair now are a lot easier to handle if they develop some snag.
While the complicated issues may require professional repair, several things that go wrong with your computers can surprisingly be fixed at home. The key is to comprehend your machine a bit better, and know some important factors to consider before you get it repaired. You’ll see how easy it’s to fix the issue and how it saves you from a lot of hassles and repair costs.
Take Data Back: When you see the machine showing signs of a serious issue (freezing or running slow, auto restart, or overheating), the foremost thing you should do is to back up the important files and folders. Make sure to do the job using the right tools, at the right time. You can copy the data into an external hard drive or a cloud storage service like iCloud. Another good option is “Google Drive”, especially when you have fast Wi-Fi and ample internet data pack. In case you’re unable to start your computer, try rebooting it through a CD-ROM, start-up floppy, or a Linux Live CD.
Restart Your PC: This works magic in many of App or software related issues. When you reboot your computer, it culminates all the long-running functions and background apps that may cause problems such as hanging, slow working, app crashing. The step is also quite effective to resolve the issues of your keyboard keys or mouse not functioning properly.
Give your Computer Some Rest: It may sound a bit odd but your machine does need rest too. If you’ve been using it for too long, you may notice it is a bit obtuse with its functioning. This indicates that you need to shut it down (properly) and leave it idle for a while. It allows the software to reset and hardware to relax.
Check For Driver Updates: Sometimes, you notice the issue occurred after you connect the computer with an external peripheral like a scanner or a printer. This is more likely by a driver conflict. In this case, try updating the system drivers. To check for the updates, follow the below steps-
- Open Window Start Menu, and tap on the Settings (gear) icon
- Click on Update and Security
- Tap on Check for Updates
Installing new hardware, app or program may also cause the problem if it’s not compatible with your system. Try uninstalling that particular hardware or app, and see if the issue is sorted.
Here’s how to uninstall an app in a Window Computer:
- Open the Windows Start menu icon.
- Click the Gear/Settings icon, and tap on Apps.
- Find and click on the app or program you want to install.
- Click Uninstall.
Avoid Too Much CPU and Memory Usage: The overload on CPU or memory is another reason your computer slows down or freezes. This happens when too many programs are running at once.
For a solution, check and close the idle functions and programs through the Task Manager.
Right-click the Windows Start menu, and tap on Task Manager Option. Here, you’ll see all programs running currently and how much CPU or memory they are consuming. You can close the programs you don’t need by clicking on End Task.
Also, avoid having too many tabs open on your web browser.
Make Use of USB sockets: Seeing your laptop or peripherals’ failures is stressful, but no worries as the solution is right there in form of USB sockets your laptop is equipped with. These sockets can be used to switch to an external device, enabling you to use your laptop like previously. For example, the buttons on your keyboard are damaged; you just need to buy an add-on keyboard and use it through USB sockets or via Bluetooth. It’s a way cheaper than having your keyboard panel replaced. Right? The same goes for the cases when you face mouse or Wi-Fi failure on your laptop. And if any of your USB sockets is damaged or stops working, buy a plugin USB hub and a PCMCIA Card. Issue sorted!
Google Your Issue Symptoms: Don’t know about the problem on your computer? Google does! The search engine is really handy in learning what’s causing your computer issue but its solutions as well. Simply search the symptoms, and you’ll find various blogs and forum pages discussing the computer repair issues you’re having.
For example, your computer is not rebooting, giving some error message. Simply type that error message and your laptop/computer model. You’ll be amazed to see how quickly you will reach to the solutions. If it’s still unclear, find some reliable tech blog sites and ask your specific query on the comment or forum.
Now some solutions if your computer doesn’t turn on
- Make sure there’s a proper power supply to both monitor and CPU. Check if the connectors are correctly plugged in. If yes, try switching it OFF and then ON.
- The next thing to look into is your AC adapter. Be sure it’s connected properly to the machine. To be sure of its functionality, try using another AC adapter or power cord. You should also try using another electrical outlet.
- If the PCU is on while there’s nothing on the screen, have a look at the display cable. Is it properly connected to the motherboard?
- Battery Check (for laptops with removable batteries): Remove the battery and take it to your nearby repair center for a thorough test. See if it’s working fine, and at what capacity. Accordingly, you can decide if it needs to be changed.
If Computer Turns On but Doesn’t Boot up
- Is it showing some error message? Google the message and find the cause of these issues.
- Try to reboot into Safe Mode. If it’s working fine in Safe mode, then it’s likely to be a software issue. Then either take it to a reliable computer repair shop to get the software reinstalled. Be ready with an external hard drive as you may need to take data backup. You can do it yourself if you are confident enough.
Important to Note: Most of the above suggestions are low-risk and given for common computer issues. If the problem is a bit complicated and you’re not confident of what you’re attempting as a solution, you better take help from a professional computer repair provider instead of trying it yourself. Find a reliable computer repair center like Carlcare and get it repaired by the professional IT technicians. This would be absolutely safe, and hassle-free.
