Netstratix is Simply I.T.

Ok so the computer is clean, but you are still experiencing some issues? Let’s do a full system check. This is going to be 2 parts. Program oriented, and Manual.
Let’s start by using some programs to tell us a little about our computer.
• HD Check

• Open “My Computer”
• Right Click on your primary partition (usually C:) and select the bottom option “properties”

• Click the “Tools” Tab

• Click the “Check Now” button to open the last menu

• Check both boxes and hit Start. This will run a simple test of your HD and give results that can be depended on to troubleshoot a HD problem.

• RAM Check

• This requires you to know how much RAM is in the machine. If you don’t know you need to open it up, check and see, then do the following steps.

• Click Start > Control Panel

• Open the “System” item.

• This will open a display that will show all of your computer information.

• Reference the information at the bottom to make sure all your RAM is registering (the number shown here should match the amount of physical RAM you know is in the machine)

• If the numbers differ you should try to reseat your RAM, and if the problem persists you probably have a bad stick of RAM. It’s very easy to replace. I even have a post on that here.

• Updates Check

• This one is very easy, just need to make sure Windows is up to date on patches.

• Click Start > Windows Update

• Run the recommended updates. (I recommend updates be set to be done automatically)

Now if that does not identify the problem then we need to move on to a manual check.
• Start by opening the PC (Link to help).
• Do a visual check and see if anything is “obviously” out of place.
• If you know where the problem lies (in RAM, or in a video card maybe) then you can try reseating that part.

• To reseat carefully release the latches that hold the RAM down, or unscrew the screw holding in the expansion card (such as a video card). Lift the RAM or the card by touching only the corners of the stick. Once fully removed, push the RAM or card back into place and secure (with the flaps or the screw).

• Once you have reseated a piece, put the PC back together and test it out. If the problem persists, then something else is wrong.

• Lastly it is not recommended to just start pulling things, so if you get over your head please contact someone to give you a hand on the matter.
Ok so of course we can do all of this and there is still a problem. At this point I would recommend letting someone who knows the territory take a look, as it may be a simple problem, just an uncommon one. I can do this for you, or anyone else who does any kind of computer repair would suffice to take a look.
That sums up this section. If you have any issues, comments, or questions please feel free to contact me directly.
Until next time!
~Geoff

admin Computer Maintenance