Common Computer Problems That You Can Probably Fix

Have you experienced turning on your PC and the screen just goes blank and nothing happens? Have you been troubled by the screen suddenly turning blue while you're in the middle of working on something important? If you are a computer user, you most probably have experienced at least one problem. Basic computer repair is easy. Windows, for instance, have built-in solutions to common problems, allowing users to fix them without professional help. Some problems are not solved by troubleshooting options and need professional services. What are the common PC problems, anyway?

 Blank Monitor

So you turn on your computer but nothing appears on your screen. When Windows does not show up, it could indicate a monitor issue. You can try using another monitor and see if the screen loads. If it works on the other monitor, then the old one needs replacement. Don't even think of repairing it, because it's not worth the money you will spend.

 But, it's not always a dilemma with the monitor. It could also be a problem with the video card, which you can find in the motherboard. Turn off your PC and remove the video card. Then, replace it with another one, and see if this solves the problem. There are cheap video cards that you can use temporarily, but if you play games a lot, buy the expensive one.

 BSOD

 The BSOD, or the blue screen of death, usually means a RAM issue. It's good if you can take note of the message on the blue screen, and then go to Microsoft's support site to find out if there is a way to fix it. Or, you can try to look up the error message on Google to see possible solutions. If there are no troubleshooting options online, or if there is nothing that seems to work, try replacing your memory stick. The simplest way to find out if it is a problem with your memory stick is to take out the memory stick of another computer and place it in the PC that's problematic. If that works, then you need to buy a new memory stick for your PC. Make sure you buy the same type.

 Bad Hard Drive

 When you start your computer and it says it cannot find Drive C:, then the problem is a bad hard drive. The first thing to do is to reboot. If that doesn't work, try using a different hard drive, and check if your computer boots properly. The trouble with hard drive failure is data loss, which is why you should back up your files long before your computer starts showing some glitches. Hard drive failure means you will have to replace it, which is cheap. You can get one for around a hundred dollars. What comes next is cumbersome work. You put in the new drive. Start your PC and install Windows.

 When to call a professional?

 Some computer troubles require expert attention. For instance, upgrading your microprocessor requires you to upgrade the BIOS. Upgrading the BIOS involves a process called flashing to change the BIOS. Flashing requires precision, because any incorrect step renders your PC useless. In short, ask an expert to do it.

 The cost of repair should be considered. If the cost is too much, it's probably more reasonable to just buy a new machine. For example, if the charge of having your faulty computer fixed goes up to $300, think about buying a new one instead