This article examines the most common sources of error in a defective PC and explains what to do in such a case...
PC broken - How to recognize broken parts and how to repair them
If your PC is defective, this can have different reasons. The power supply, the graphics card and the processor are just a few of the components in a PC that are often responsible for the fact that it no longer works or does not work properly. This article examines the most common sources of error in a defective PC and explains what to do in such a case. Often only a few actions are necessary and the problem is solved.
What to do if the power supply of your PC is defective?
If the PC is defective, you should first check the power supply unit. To do this, pull the plug and check whether there are any melted or scorched components. In such cases, there is an overvoltage and it is definitely necessary to replace the power supply. The reason for this can sometimes be lightning strikes. But a problem with the ventilation can also lead to overheating.
A common sign that there is a problem with the power supply is when the PC suddenly turns off. The only way to check if a power supply is defective and if there is no external damage is to use a replacement unit.
Note that you should never unscrew a power supply yourself. Only experts could try to fix it. However, you should rather invest in a new device in case your power supply unit gives up the ghost. It is also advisable to choose a model from a well-known brand.
You should better not try to try the possibly damaged power supply on another PC. In some cases, this can cause a defect.
CPU defective, now what?
Sometimes the motherboard indicates that there is a problem with the processor. Here are just a few things you can do to possibly fix the problem. Of course, one possibility would be to disconnect the processor from the PC and test it on another. However, if you do not have another device, you should check whether the process cooler is possibly dusty. A CPU fan error can usually be fixed quickly by cleaning the cooler with compressed air or a vacuum cleaner. It is best to remove the fan first.
Tip: In order to be able to search for errors better, you should know the components of your system! CPU-Z can help you with that.
Sometimes a CPU defect can also be traced back to the dried thermal paste. This can usually be removed with a little isopropanol alcohol and a clean kitchen towel. In principle, regular checking and cleaning can prevent a CPU fan defect. If the PC then restarts again, the problem has been resolved. Otherwise, it is, unfortunately, necessary to replace the processor.
How to fix a memory leak
A PC defect can also be caused by damaged RAM. If your PC has a RAM stick, you can release the latch and test if the component works in a different slot. The PC should then restart as usual. If this does not help, it may be necessary to clean the contact surface with isopropanol alcohol as excessive dust can also be the cause.
If the PC still does not restart afterwards, you should invest in a new RAM block. There is usually a sticker on the PC that contains information about the block's specifications. It is important to purchase the same model since different models often do not work together if there are several built-in RAM blocks.
But if there is still a problem after the replacement, then it is not the main memory that is defective, but the mainboard.
What to do in the event of a motherboard defect
If the PC can still be switched on, but it no longer boots up, then it is probably due to a damaged mainboard. With some models, this can already be recognized by beeps, which then indicate a problem. There are also some models that use LEDs instead of sounds to indicate a problem. These also show whether there are other problems, for example with the processor or the graphics card.
If the mainboard is defective, you should first try to reset it to the default settings. This is also possible before the PC even starts to boot. Immediately after the start, you have to hold down a special key combination, which varies depending on the manufacturer. In most cases, these are the Esc, Esc, and F2 keys.
If this does not help, it is necessary to replace the mainboard. In some cases, however, it can also make sense to invest in a new PC right away. Here you should weigh up what is more worthwhile from a financial point of view. If you own an older PC, you will benefit from a new device, as it has a correspondingly longer service life. Newer models also come with a warranty. Even if there is a problem in the first few years, you can simply exchange the PC or have it repaired free of charge.
Graphics card of your PC defective? - This helps
Some mainboards also indicate that there is a problem with the graphics card. A common problem with cheaper computers is that the graphics card is in the processor. In such a case, it is accordingly necessary to replace the processor as mentioned above.
However, if the graphics card is installed separately, it can be helpful to clean it first in the event of a defect. The graphics card can be easily removed. It is important to unplug the power cord first. You can then remove loose dirt with a little compressed air or a vacuum cleaner. The contact surface itself can be cleaned with isopropanol alcohol.
However, the graphics card is not always the same. There may also be a problem with the display outputs. It is also helpful to test the graphics card on another PC. If all else fails, you need to replace them.
In many cases the hard disk is defective
A PC defect is often due to the hard drive. It is important to try beforehand to back up all the data stored on it by transferring it to another medium, such as a USB stick or a CD. The files can also be saved on an external hard drive.
Another way to fix a hard drive failure is to use a rescue system. To do this, start the UEFI boot menu. For this, you have to press a special key combination after the start, which differs depending on the computer model. This is often "F2", "Esc" or "Del". Then you run the troubleshooter. To do this, click on "advanced options".
Then go to "Command Prompt" and type "bootrec /fixMBR". Then enter "bootrec /fixBoot". Sometimes it may be necessary to click on the prompt several times. With the command "bootrec /rebuildBCD" the PC should restart.
If this does not help either, then the cause of the PC defect is the hard disk and it is necessary to reinstall the operating system or, best of all, to buy a new hard disk.
PC broken - summary
When a PC breaks down or has minor issues, it can be due to various damaged parts. However, it is not absolutely necessary to invest in a completely new device. Sometimes it can be better to just buy a new PC or laptop if repairing or replacing the broken parts takes too much time and money. A new device is usually technically more up-to-date and also lasts longer.
However, it can already be helpful to regularly check and clean the PC and the fans, since in many cases dust is the cause of problems and it is therefore not always necessary to remove and replace individual parts. However, it also shows that it is never worth saving in the wrong place. When a PC is several years old, it's not uncommon for problems to arise, and getting a new model can even save you money in the long run.
