The Steps To Repairing A Computer

By: neil r maycock Click author's name for more of his/her articles

Computers have come a long way since the first IBM PC. They have grown more powerful, faster and can do many more things. Perhaps the biggest change is that with many component providers manufacturing memory, processor, cards and adapters, it is sometimes cheaper to replace or repair a failing component, than the whole system.

Even with the changing components, the procedures and tools needed for diagnostic purposes remain the same.

ESD
Electro-static discharge is one of the main killers of computer components when repairing, upgrading or replacing. ESD is defined as the flow of electric current between two objects of different electronic potentials. Basically, this means that when attempting to open your computer case or chassis, make sure that you are properly grounded. People generate static electricity when they took metal objects, touching a component, could then cause this electricity to be transfered to the component or worst of motherboard to fail.

To prevent this you should always use anti-static bags when transferring components or placing them down, ant-static mats or anti-static wrist straps. Wrist straps contain fine conductive fibers which ground the person it is attached too. These usually have a crocodile clip on the end that attaches to the chassis of the computer. This makes the environment safe to work on when repairing a computer.

Diagrams Always help
Before replacing a hard drive, a processor or any other component, make sure you know exactly where the cables, jumpers, and power connectors were attached too. Most devices are key coded to only fit one way, however, screw a motherboard into the chassis without the mounting plates and you will not only blow your power adapter but most likely your motherboard too.

Most motherboards have manuals which can be found online should you be unsure of where anything goes. This helps with jumper settings and figuring out which components to upgrade.

Know Your Specs
Another reason to properly document your system set up is when it comes to upgrading your computer. The motherboard speed, slots available, and power factors could all influence the type of hardware you buy. For instance is your motherboard Intel or AMD, Does it have PCI, PCI Express, AGP slots?. What type of memory do you need. Will it accept DDR, DDR2 or what is the maximum size of memory your motherboard will support.

Tools Of The Trade
Non magnetic Phillips and flat headed screwdrivers are essential. Compressed air is great for cleaning those dust bunnies. This is available in most electrical shops and is the safest way to clean inside your computer. If you are replacing a processor with a heat sink, thermal paste or powder is essential. This is applied to the processor chip and then the heat sink is placed on top. Processors such as the AMD Duron or AMD Athlon will fail if this is not done properly.

If you are not comfortable with upgrading or repairing your computer, do not be afraid to take it in to a computer repair shop. Even basic maintenance can ruin a system if is not done properly. This definitely a more affordable solution then having to replace the entire system.