1. IC3 GS3 Standard COMPUTING FUNDAMENTALS Module
Objective 1.2:
Maintaining and Solving Common Computer Problems

2. Objectives:
Identify importance of protecting computer hardware from theft or damage.
Identify factors that cause damage to computer hardware or media.
Identify how to protect computer hardware from fluctuations in power supply or outages.
Identify common problems associated with computer hardware.
Identify problems that can occur if hardware is not maintained properly.
Identify maintenance that can be performed routinely by users.
Identify maintenance that should ONLY be performed by professionals.
Identify the steps required to solve computer-related problems.
Identify consumer issues related to buying maintaining and repairing a computer.

3. Keeping Your Hardware Safe
Lock computer terminals to desks or lock rooms
Notebooks/laptops in locked drawer/cabinet
Padded carrying bags to transport laptops safely

4. Protecting Data Save active files frequently Back up important files
Use antivirus software
Use firewalls
A combination of software and hardware that creates a buffer between an internal network and the Internet to prevent unauthorized access
Encryption is a secure process for keeping confidential information private.

5. Keeping hardware/media safe from environmental factors
Keep disks away from magnetic and electrical fields (in televisions and monitors)
Avoid extreme temperatures - A temperature range of 68 to 75 degrees is optimal for system reliability.
A high level of humidity can cause computers to short circuit, resulting in the loss of data and damage to hardware.

6. Protect from fluctuations in Power Supply
Electrical power failure can destroy data and equipment:
Use surge protectors
protects against power spikes that can destroy components
Use Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
prevents damage and data loss during power failure

7. Routine Maintenance
Make regular visual inspections of computer system to look for problems
Keep computer components clean
Perform routine “internal” maintenance
run utility programs that clean up remove unneeded files from hard drive

8. Troubleshooting Steps
1. Recognize the problem.
2. Replicate the problem by reproducing the steps that cause the problem consistently.
3. Attempt basic solutions to correct the problem, such as restarting the hardware or checking cable connections.
4. Look for available help and advice in manuals, or access a technical support Web site or telephone number.
5. Communicate the problem accurately to the support technician.
6. Follow the instructions the technician gives you carefully.
7. Confirm that the problem has been fixed.
8. Avoid similar problems in the future.

9. Buying a Computer Make a list of tasks you want to accomplish
Check company policies or standards
Make sure software is compatible
Consider expected useful life of the components
Buy what you need

10. Comparing CPU’s
Different types of computers use different central processing unit (CPU) chips.
Mac’s use G4 or G5
PC’s use Intel Pentium, or Core duo chips
The amount of RAM (4 GB) also affects processing speed
Hard Drive – 500 GB

11. Comparing Computer Models
Let the tasks you want to perform and the environment be your guide
Consider peripherals and storage devices needed

12. Upgrading Computer Hardware
Adding more RAM makes a processor run faster
Expansion cards with 128K to 512K or more are available
Hardware peripherals (new keyboard, mouse, or printer) easy to install
Plug and Play capability

13. Bundled Software Sometimes software comes with a new computer
fully operable and can be registered and used for the life of the computer
Other software offered on a trial basis
you must pay a fee to continue to use the program after a certain date

14. Warranties & Technical Support
Most have a limited warranty
ensures defective components will be repaired or replaced during that time
Extended warranties offered at additional cost
Register new equipment so that the manufacturer’s warranty will be in effect