Computer Repair checklist

Use it to help fix your problems.

"A check list is an abbreviated step by step set of instructions to insure the troubleshooting or repair is completed in the shortest time possible with the highest quality."

Where a manual (such as the Self Computer Repair Unleashed 2nd Edition Manual) will be very verbose and detailed; the check list is a very short version giving only the steps required to complete a single task in the quickest time possible.

To use a check list some knowledge of the subject matter or part is required.

Before you start did you do your due diligence and troubleshoot the problem?

Note: This is a generic listing of steps you should take to do your repair, it is not task specific!

Computer Repair Checklist instructions:

1. Disconnect the power cord.


2. Observe ESD

Open the case.

Disconnect any cables connected to the component.

ENSURE you are grounded.

Remove failed part by either removing the retaining screw or latch.

Set the part aside, put in anti-static bag, you want to keep the old part until you have tested the new part, once the new part is tested and proves the troubleshooting to be correct and you have a failed part then you can throw it away.

Remove new part from Anti-Static bag.

Carefully insert the new component into slot or bay.

Secure the part, becareful with screws that go through the component printed circuit  board (PCB), too much torque will crack the board.

Reconnect the cables for the component if there are any.

Check your work, check the adjacent cards, drives, etc. make sure you didn't inadvertently bump something (a cable) loose.

Put case cover back on, this will preclude you from touching any components while the system is powered up.

Reconnect any external cables you disconnected.

Computer repair checklist for Power up the system.

Watch for system startup screen, if you do not get a screen with in two or three seconds power the system down, disconnect the power cord. Recheck your work - Something has shorted out or "gone to ground".

When something has gone to ground, in other words there is a short between a component's power connection and the ground of the power supply.

Once you are certain nothing is loose or you have found the component that is going to ground and have corrected the problem put the case cover back on and reconnect cables and power it up.

Some devices are listed in the BIOS, however even if it isn't listed in the BIOS such as an add on card for SATA or IDE drives still go in to the BIOS, then save the settings on exit. This insures that the interrupts and DMA settings are saved even though you can't see them.

Other problems could be caused by a corrupt registry. Before reloading the Operating System try doing a registry repair. All Registry Repair programs are not created equal, as always do your research before trusting your computer and data to an unknown program.

Troubleshoot before replacing a part, this will insure a higher quality repair at a lower cost...