UPGRADING REPAIRING PCs

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Chapter 2—System Components and Configuration
Table 2.7 Troubleshooting Processor-Related Problems
Problem
Identification Possible Cause Resolution
System is dead, no Power cord failure. Plug in or replace power cord.
cursor, no beeps, Power cords can fail even
or no fan. though they look fine.
Power supply Replace the power supply. Use
failure. a known, good spare for testing.
Motherboard Replace motherboard. Use a
failure. known, good spare for testing.
Memory failure. Remove all memory except one
bank and retest. If the system still
won’t boot, replace bank 1.
System is dead, no All components Check all peripherals, especially
beeps, or locks up either not installed memory and graphics adapter.
before POST begins. or incorrectly installed.
Reseat all boards and socketed
components, such as CPUs and
memory modules.
System beeps on Improperly seated Reseat or replace graphics adapter.
startup, fan is or failing graphics Use known, good spare for testing.
running, no
cursor onscreen.
adapter.
Locks up during Poor heat Check CPU heat sink/fan; replace if
or shortly after dissipation. necessary, using one with a higher
POST. capacity.
Use thermal paste between
fan/heatsink and CPU as directed
by heatsink and CPU vendors.
Improper voltage Set motherboard for proper core
settings. processor voltage.
Wrong motherboard
bus speed.
Set motherboard for proper speed.
Wrong CPU clock Jumper motherboard for proper
multiplier. clock multiplier.
Improper CPU identification
during POST.
Old BIOS. Update BIOS from manufacturer.
Board not Check manual and jumper board
configured properly. according to proper bus and multiplier
settings.
If board is jumperless, adjust bus
and multiplier in BIOS.