Motherboard, Memory, and Processor Troubleshooting

If your computer randomly freezes a lot, shows the Blue Screen of Death (BSoD), and/or gives off an unusual burning smell, you might be having...

• motherboard issues

• network interface card (NIC) issues

• memory issues

• processor issues

If your computer's case is giving off an unusual burning smell, what is the FIRST thing you should do?

• Disconnect the power from the computer.

• Open your computer's case.

• Disconnect the motherboard.

• Spray inside the case with canned air.

You want to check your computer for physical damage.

Put the steps below in order.

1 = first step, 5 = last step

• Remove all external cables attached to the computer.

• Remove the side panel.

• Look for damage by shining a flashlight on the motherboard.

• Unplug the computer from the power source.

• Turn off the computer as you normally would.

Billy's computer doesn't power on at all.

Which of the following computer components is the MOST likely cause?

• Power supply unit

• Central processing unit (CPU)

• Motherboard

• RAM

In many cases, PSU failure is a result of all of the following...

Select ALL that apply.

• Poor handling

• Power surge

• Subpar equipment

• Out-of-date driver

_________ means that unintentional changes have been introduced to the original files on your computer.

Sort the following computer issues.

Is it a sign of data corruption or a memory error?

Groups:

(a) Data Corruption

,

(b) Memory Error

• The system reports that system files are missing.

• Files appear scrambled once they're opened

• You are unable to install new programs.

• Computer performance diminishes the more you use it.

• Files or data go completely missing

• The computer boots but the screen remains blank.

Which of the following are reasons you might be experiencing memory errors?

Select ALL that apply.

• The memory card isn't properly installed.
• The memory card has come loose.
• The socket that the memory card is seated in needs cleaning.
• The power supply unit isn't properly connected.

When would you be MOST LIKELY to hear a beep code?

• When the computer boots into Windows.

• If the computer encounters an issue before POST has completed

• When the computer is shutting down.

• If the computer encounters an issue while launching an Internet browser.

The primary cause of rising CPU temperatures is ​ (a)   . Dust commonly accumulates on a computer's cases over time, leading to ​ (b)   , ​ (c)   , and ventilation issues.

• dust buildup
• clogged fans
• blocked air flow
• overclocking settings
• lack of dust
• insufficient RAM