Troubleshooting

Starter Speed Test

• What is the name of the first ever video game created?

• What was the first ever virus called?

Key words:
Troubleshoot

Error
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Trouble Shooting

Program Runs Slowly or Isn't Working Right

• If a program is running slowly or otherwise isn't working right, the

first thing you should try is closing the program and re-opening it.

• You can also shut down your computer, wait a few seconds, and boot

it up again. Some minor problems will work themselves out when
you do this.

• Check with the company for any known problems or updates to the

software.

How to trouble shoot a computer

Key words:
Troubleshoot

Error
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Resolve

Program is Completely Unresponsive

• If a program has become completely unresponsive, you can press

(and hold) the Control, Alt, and Delete keys to open the Task
Manager. You can then select the program that isn't working and
click End Task. If you are using a Mac, you can press Option,
Command, Esc to open a similar dialog box.

How to trouble shoot a computer

Key words:
Troubleshoot

Error
Restart
Resolve

Problems Starting or Shutting Down the Computer

• If your computer does not start, begin by checking the power cord to confirm

that it is plugged securely into the back of the computer case and the power
outlet.

• If it is plugged into an outlet, make sure it is a working outlet. Often, this will

require you to plug a lamp or other electrical device into the outlet to make sure
it is receiving power.

• If the computer is plugged into a surge protector, verify that it is turned on. You

may have to reset the surge protector by turning it off and then back on. You can
also plug a lamp or other device into the surge protector to verify that it is on.

• If you are using a laptop, the battery may not be charged. Plug the AC adapter

into the wall and then try to turn on the laptop. If it still doesn't start up, you
may need to wait a few minutes and then try again.

How to trouble shoot a computer

Key words:
Troubleshoot

Error
Restart
Resolve

"Non-System Disk or Disk Error" Message

• If you get this message when you boot up your computer, it usually

means there is a CD, DVD, USB flash drive, or floppy disk in your
computer, which is interfering with your computer's booting process.
Remove the disk from the drive and restart the computer.

How to trouble shoot a computer

Key words:
Troubleshoot

Error
Restart
Resolve

Windows Shutting Down Message Will Not Disappear

• Sometimes Windows will freeze during the shutdown process. If this

happens, the Windows is Shutting Down message screen will stay
active on your screen. To finish shutting down the computer, press
and hold the power button for about 10 seconds, or until the
computer turns off.

How to trouble shoot a computer

Key words:
Troubleshoot

Error
Restart
Resolve

Computer Begins Randomly Rebooting or Crashing

• Check for overheating. Make sure the vents in the case are not

blocked. Confirm that there is good air flow around the computer.

• Update your antivirus software and scan for viruses

How to trouble shoot a computer

Key words:
Troubleshoot

Error
Restart
Resolve

Problems with the Monitor and Speakers

No Picture on the Monitor

• Confirm the computer is turned on.

• Check the brightness control, located on your monitor or your

keyboard, and make sure it is not set too low.

• Check the connections for the monitor and surge protector, and

make sure the surge protector is turned on.

How to trouble shoot a computer

Key words:
Troubleshoot

Error
Restart
Resolve

No Sound

• Check the volume control on your computer. In Windows, the sound icon will

usually be on the taskbar, and you can also access the sound options in the
Control Panel. On Macs, the sound options are found at the top of the screen or
in System Preferences.

• Most media programs (such as iTunes or Windows Media Player) have a volume

control, which will need to be turned up.

• Make sure the speakers are turned on, if using external speakers.

• Make sure external speakers are connected to the correct audio port or a USB

port. If your computer has color-coded ports, the audio output will usually be
green.

• Connect headphones to the correct audio port and determine if sound is audible

from the headphones.

Key words:
Troubleshoot

Error
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Plenary

• Have a go at the scenario cards for different troubleshooting issues

that commonly arise.

• You can use your book to assist you

How to trouble shoot a computer

Key words:
Troubleshoot

Error
Restart
Resolve

Extension Task

• Create a Word document called Connecting to the Internet and

answer the following:

1.

What is a modem?

2.

What does a wireless router do?

3.

Find three different ISP’s on the Internet and how much they
cost per month.

How to trouble shoot a computer

Key words:
Troubleshoot

Error
Restart
Resolve