Com 214

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COMPUTER SYSTEM

TROUBLESHOOTING Engr. ALLO I.A.

COM 214

Course outline

 Understanding the process of Computer system fault diagnosis.


 Understanding computer system peripherals failures.
 Understanding Virus protection utility failure and software diagnostic tools.
 Understanding networks failure symptoms.

INTRODUCTION
Computer system comprises of several electronic components and sub-circuitries that drives or
control various tasks as may be required by the user. And, because these components and sub-
assemblies had to work together to produce an expected outcome, it becomes very difficult
sometimes to detect failure that emanates from a particular source. Even though modern
components and sub- assemblies mostly come in form of field replaceable unit (FRU), wherein a
user might be able to replace a component in the computer system without necessarily resorting
to any professional help, the very act or process of identifying and locating the root cause of a
particular failure in the computer system need some proficiency in the knowledge of the inter-
relation between the hardware and software aspect of the system as related to specific functions
of the computer operation.

Troubleshooting basically entails identifying symptoms of failure, detecting the cause or source
of the failure, repair or replacing the faulty component or device that causes the failure and
finally testing to ascertain that the problem no longer exist.

In this course, students will be exposed to various approach to solving problems arising in the
operation of computer systems (hardware / software), and their peripherals. In addition they will
be acquainted with the use of fault report forms that keeps record of activities done in the
computer system as these records come in handy when system over hauling, or specific upgrade
is required.

1.1 Various components of Computer system

There are several electronics devices or sub units (hardware) that make up the entire computer
system. However, the most important and indispensable amongst them are: Motherboard
(MoBo), CPU, GPU, RAM, chassis, storage device, keyboard and power supply unit. Each of the

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components works together with other components and architecture to achieve specific objective
demand of the computer system user.

1.2 Power On Self-Test (POST)

This referred to a process performed by a firmware or software routines immediately after a PC


is powered on. The process is carried out to ensure that all the hardware is ok before the
operating system is loaded. The POST operation normally runs at the beginning of the boot
sequence. If there is a problem with the boot sequence, the BIOS generates a POST error code or
message which is displayed on the monitor (if the VDU is already initialized), or through beeps
codes. POST is the first step in hardware boot sequence therefore the PC won’t continue with the
boot sequence if the POST fails. If the POST passes, the PC generates a single beep sound
satisfying that all is well with the PC.

1.3 Power Supply fault diagnosis

The power supply unit is the life-line of the PC. If there is a problem with this unit, the common
outcome is that the PC will not turn on. Other symptoms include: the PC rebooting itself, PC
turning off unexpectedly, appearance of smoke with smell of burning electronics etc.

Table 1.0 presents probable causes of PSU failure and how they can be resolved.

Possible causes of failure Possible solution


i. The computer is not plugged into the AC i. plug the computer into a known good AC
outlet. outlet.
ii. AC outlet is faulty. ii. Same as (i).
iii. Power cord is faulty. iii. Use a known good power cord.
iv. Power supply switch is not turned on. iv. Turn on the power switch.
v. Power supply switch is set to incorrect v. set the power supply switch to the correct
voltage. voltage setting.
vi. The power button is not connected vi. Correctly orient the power button to the front
correctly to the front panel connector. case panel connector and reconnect.
vii the power supply has failed vii. install a known good power supply

The symptoms and possible solution presented in table 1 is typically for a situation where the
computer could not turn on completely. For the other symptoms (unexpected rebooting, smoke
or burning smell) where the power supply is on, it indicates that the power supply is beginning to
fail and the possible remedy is to replace it out rightly.

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1.4 Software diagnostic test for Hardware

In most operating systems, some of the commonly used diagnostic tools are:-

2 Disk error-checking or ScanDisk


3 Disk clean up
4 Disk defragmenter
5 AIDA64Extreme (Win 10)
6 Crystal Disk info
7 Intel Processor Diagnostic tool
8 JScreenFix
9 Benchmarking, etc.

The first three have been discussed in com 216 lecture notes.

AIDA64Extreme is a diagnostic tool associated to Windows 10. It provides detailed information


about installed software and hardware (over 185k); and also offers diagnostic functions. It also
offers a couple of benchmarks for measuring either the performance of individual hardware
components or the whole system. It is compatible with all 32-bit and 64-bit Windows editions,
including windows 11 and Windows Server2022. Other features include: hardware detection
capabilities (to provide detail information on the computer internals without the need to open it
up ), external display support (over 50 LCD/VFD screens) and wireless remote monitoring of
sensors values on smartphones and tablets, support over 250 various sensor devices to measure
temperatures, voltages, fan speeds and power draw, provides detail information on installed
programs, software licences, security applications and Windows settings etc.

The Crystal Disk info is good for diagnosis of sudden occurrence of fault in the PC. It performs a
complete analysis of the state of your data drives including USB drives, SSDs and HDDs. It also
calculates the overall health status and gives details about error rates, uptime, spin up time and
temperature of the disk.

The Intel processor Diagnostic tool is best suited for the diagnosis of Intel central processing
Units (CPUs).

JScreenFix tool is best for identifying LCD problems.

The benchmarking tools compare newer system to older ones with a view to establishing the
overall performance of a new system before making a purchase decision. Example of such tools
is: Batterymark, Netbench, Serverbench, WebBench, Wintune97 etc.

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1.5 Start up and Start up Failure

Start-up failure refers to those problems that occur during the initialization process (Boot
process) of the computer; that is, between the time that the PC is powered, or turn on, up till the
time that the PC sits idle at the command-line prompt or graphical desktop.

During the boot process, if all output voltages from the power supply are valid, the supply
generates a power good (PG) logical signal within 100mS and 500mS. When the motherboard
timer IC receives the PG signal; the timer stops forcing a reset signal to the CPU, prompting the
CPU to start processing. The initial search of the address FFFF: 0000H by the CPU and the
subsequent redirection of the CPU (depending on the BIOSROM) is traditionally referred to as
the bootstrap.

During the initialization also, the core tests is carried out to ensure system integrity. A set of
hardware specific self-test routines check s the major motherboard (MB) components and
identifies the presence of any other specialized BIOS ICs in the system such as drive controller
BIOS, Video BIOS, SCSI BIOS, etc. System BIOS starts with a test of the MB hardware like the
CPU, math-co processor, timer IC, Direct memory access (DMA) controllers and interrupt (IRQ)
controllers.

The summary of the start -up process sequence is as follows:

a) Power ON
b) POST is conducted within 0.1 to 0.5 seconds
c) Microprocessor timer chip receives PG signal which prompt it to stop generating reset
signal to the microprocessor (CPU).
d) Microprocessor begins executing the ROMBIOS code from memory location FFFF:
0000H.
e) ROMBIOS performs a test of the central hardware to verify basic system functionality
and report any error by generating beep codes.
f) BIOS performs video ROM scan of memory locations C000:0000 to C780:0000, looking
for video adapter. If a video ROMBIOS is found, it is tested by checksum procedure. If
the test is passed, the ROM is executed and the video ROM code initializes the video
adapter to produce a cursor onscreen. If the checksum procedure fails, error such as
“C000 ROM” or “video ROM error” may be displayed, and the system initialization
usually halts.
1.5.1 Cold and Warm Start (POST)

A cold start is a situation where power is applied for the first time on a PC ; whereas a warm start
is by using reset button ( <ctrl>+<Alt>+<Del>key combination). The memory location
0000:0472H contains a flag that determines whether initialization is a cold start or a warm start.
A value of 1234h at this address indicates a warm start; in which case the POST routine is
skipped. Any other value at this address is assumed to be a cold start, and full POST routine will

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be executed. The full POST checks many of the higher-level functions on the MB, memory,
microprocessor, video adapter, floppy drive, math-co processor, printer port, serial port, HDD
and other sub-systems. Dozens of test are performed by the full POST.

If the POST completes successfully, the system will respond with a single beep from the speaker.

1.5.2 Causes of start- up Failure

A number of reasons could be responsible for start- up failure. Some of these reasons include:

 Power supply problems


 Inability of the system to carry out POST successfully
 Failure to load an operating system (OS) due to issues related to IO.SYS, MSDOS.SYS
or DOS volume boot sector (VBS); normally accompanied with errors like “Diskette boot
record error” or “Non- system disk or disk error” for example when the boot sector is
corrupted this could happen.
 When ‘Devices referenced in SYSTEM.INI or Registry could not be found’ Note that the
most common causes of this referencing error is deleting an application rather than
uninstalling it. Uninstalling an application removes the files from the computer, its
references are removed from the registry, and SYSTEM.INI files and its listing in the
programs menu is removed. Simply deleting an application would keep these references
in the system. Always remove applications using manufacturers uninstall utility or the
Windows uninstall utility, located in the Add/remove programs dialog box.
 Corruption of Swap files – “swap file corrupt” leading to frequently ‘hanging’ or locks up
(A swap file is a space created in a hard disk to store temporary data that will not fit in
regular RAM. However, this space can also be corrupted and present start up
problems).In some Windows versions like 9x and 2000, the remedy could just be to
simply delete the swap file.

Remedies

In most Windows versions, the following troubleshooting guide could help to resolve these file
problems;

 Open SYSTEM.INI
 Determine where the referenced file should be located
 Check for the presence of that file in the proper location
 If the file does not exist, reinstall or copy it; it is possible it might have been corrupted
and will have to be replaced.
 Restart the computer.
However, if the problem persist or if the referenced file is not needed,
 Open the SYSTEM.INI file

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 Place a semicolon (;) in front of the line referencing the problem file. This symbol will
instruct Windows to skip over the line during start up.

1.6 The cause of Hard disk drive Failure

1.6.1 Introduction

The hard disk drive (HDD) is a non-volatile storage device that stores digitally encode data. In
disk storage mechanism, data is recorded either through electronic, magnetic, optical or
mechanical changes to a surface layer of one or more rotating disks. A disk drive is a device that
implements such storage mechanism. Example of disk drives includes:

Floppy disk drives

Hard disk drives (non-removable)

Optical disk drives, and

Associated disk media.

1.6.2 Types of HDD

HDD are usually identified by their kind of connectors or interface. They are:

i. IDE / PATA (integrated device electronics / parallel advance technology attachment):-


This has 40 pin ribbon connectors and can connect up to 2 devices.
ii. SATA: - This has 7 conductors that connect a single HDD to a single connector on the
SATA controller found on the MB.
iii. SCSI: - This has 50 – 68 pin, multiple SCSI devices can be connected to a single channel
through daisy chaining. There is also the serial attached SCSI, or SAS for short, which is
a point – to – point serial protocol that moves data to and from computer-storage devices
such as hard disk; which has replaced the older parallel SCSI bus technology that first
appeared in the mid- 1980s.
iv. External USB: - This is essentially a PATA or SATA device in a simple enclosure with a
conversion for connection to USB interface.
1.6.3 Connection of HDDs

Two HDDs may be connected to a single IDE connector using jumpers, in the following mode:

primary master – secondary master, or primary slave – secondary slave.

A single HDD however, can be connected either as primary master slave or secondary master
slave (using jumper settings and choosing IDE connection).

1.6.4 Reasons for HDD failure

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HDD failure is basically categorized under four (4) broad sections viz- a- viz firmware
corruption e.g driver issues, electronic failure e.g spike on controller board, mechanical
failure e.g head crash and logical failure e.g invalid entry in FAT. Other reasons include:

1. Poor power supply


2. Virus attack
3. Corrupted OS
4. Damaged blocks
5. Air filters problems etc.
1.6.5 Common symptoms of HDD failure and Remedy

SYMPTOMS POSSIBLE CAUSE REMEDY

1.Corrupted files on Unethical shutting down, closing a running Follow the right procedure for
HDD program accidentally, power failure or shutting down, avoid installing
corrupted software use suspected software and malicious
programs, clean and remove
unwanted programs regularly

2.virus manifestation
Virus could attack and spread from HDD to Update your system regularly with
other systems across the network of the help of reliable anti-virus
computers. programs.

3.unexpected PC
crashes HDD has too many bad sectors or blocks Update system regularly; replace
such that the read head may not be able to HDD after 3 to 5 years of usage.
identify the sector requested by the user; or
the head makes contact with the platter,
producing clicking sounds. Old age,
formatting HDD more than its limit.
4.PC fails to detect
The power supply is giving out power that Use UPS of a reputed brand.
HDD or BIOS
is above or below the required level, making Replace IDE/SATA or SCSI cable.
it hard for the BIOS to detect the HDD so Switch the drive to another power
HDD fails to spin up. plug.

Ensure proper ventilation for the


5.Heat and dust effect Excessive usage couple with poor PC. Ensure the fan is working.
ventilation. Faulty CPU fan Remove dust periodically by
blowing out.

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6. Manufacturing fault. HDD works well initially, but then becomes New HDD should be properly
non responsive after a few months. tested for functionality and
reliability by using SMART tools
that can notify user about the
condition of the HDD and risk that
the HDD may face in future.

HDD fault may also be signalled by an error message which may imply an issue with sectors
data, or physical disk on the HDD. For instance in HP PCs with unified extensible firmware
interface (UEFI), an error could appear as:

Hard disk error

Please run the hard disk test in System diagnostics

Hard Disk# (xxxx)

F2 – System Diagnostics

For more information, please visit:

http://www.hp.com/go/techcenter/startup.

In this case,

 Make an immediate backup of all important data and files


 Perform a HDD diagnostic test to verify the condition of the HDD driver, Run the HDD
test in HP advanced system diagnostics using the steps in the section:
1. Turn the PC and immediately press the esc key repeatedly about once every second, to
enter the start-up menu.
2. Press the F2 key to open system diagnostics.
3. On the HP Advanced System Diagnostics Screen, click Hard disk test.
4. Click ‘start hard disk test’
5. Wait for the test to complete, the result will be displayed on the screen.
Contact customer support if necessary.

1.7 The causes of CD- ROM Drive failure

1.7.1 Introduction

Compact Disc records data in digital form through the use of physical ‘pits’ and

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‘land’ in the disc. It is a remarkably long term storage media when handled effectively especially
in storing it. Faulty CD can cause file and data errors which may appear as if it were the drive
that is faulty. In order to maintain longevity of the disc, certain things need to be avoided. Things
like:

1 Avoid bending the disc.

2 Protect the disc from heat.


3 Avoid scratch on the disc most especially circular scratches that follows the spiral tracks. A
circular scratch can easily wipe out entire segment of data which would be unrecoverable.
4 Avoid use of chemicals on the disc; e.g benzene, Ammonia acetone, carbon tetrachloride or
chlorinated cleaners which can damage the disc’s plastic surface.
5 Maintain comfortable environment: don’t expose recordable discs to sunlight or other strong
light for a long time .Also avoid high heat and humidity which can damage the physical disc.
Always keep blank or recorded media in a clean ‘jewel’ cases for best protection.
6 Don’t use labels on the disc: glue might eat through the lacquer surface as some inks do.
7 Don’t write on the disc: ink might eat through the lacquer surface and damage data.
8 Don’t use Kodak photo CDs: these CDs have a protection bit that prevents them from being
written on many CD recorders. An attempt to write these discs on the recorders that
recognize the protection bit will produce an error message.

1.7.2 Troubleshooting CD- ROM Drives

Although the majority of CD- ROM problems are caused by software or setup issues, the drives
too are delicate and unforgiving devices. So it is better to replace a defective drive outright when
it gets faulty rather than attempting a lengthen repair giving that their prices are fairly affordable.
However, there are some situations that could require troubleshooting. Below are some
symptoms and possible remedy in the course of operation of CD drive.

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SYMPTOMS POSSIBLE CAUSE REMEDY

1 drive can’t accept or reject a CD A problem associated to  Check for any obvious
motorized CD ROM drives. obstruction through the
CD slot.
 Check each linkage and
motor drive gears
carefully, replace any
damaged gear or entire
gear assembly or even
the entire CD ROM
drives mechanism.
2. optical read head does not seek  Replace the CD ROM
Could be power issue, or mechanism outright.
problem with the read head.
3. The disc cannot be read
 Check the CD itself and
Drive not ready error or ensure that it is the right
DOS level sector is not format, inserted
found. properly and physically
clean.

 If the problem persists,


check the physical
interface cable between
the drive and its adapter
board to ensure that the
cable is connected
correctly and
completely.

 If you are using


multiple SCSI devices
from the same
controller card, and
other SCSI devices are
operating properly, the
SCSI controller is
probably intact but if
other SCSI devices also

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malfunctions, then try a
new SCSI host
controller board; at this
point either the drives
optical head or
electronics are defective
and your best course is
to replace the drive.

 Check to be sure that


4. The Disc does not turn The disc is supposed to be the disc is seated
turned at constant linear properly and not
velocity (CLV) directed and jammed or obstructed
regulated by the spindle
under normal condition.  Before troubleshooting
review your drive
installation and setup
carefully to ensure that
the drive is properly
configured for
operation.

 If symptoms persist,
replace the CD ROM
drive mechanism.

 Check the disc to be


sure it is optically clean
5. The optical head cannot focus from dust and
its laser beam. The CD ROM drive must
fingerprints which
focus its laser beam to a
could result into serious
microscopic precision to
access problems.
properly read the pits and
Lands of a disc. If the focus
 Try another disc if the
is out or not well maintained
same results occur, try
the laser detector might
cleaning the optical
produce erroneous signals,
aperture.
randomly and consistent.

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1.8 Cause of Display system Failure (CRT).

The cathode ray tube (CRT) type display system (monitor) is responsible for producing picture
element and resolution. The CRT as extensively discussed in COM 216, has stationed electrodes
and grids that processes electron beam into pictures or graphics that can be seen on the screen.
The CRT receives four (4) inputs i.e; Video (RGB), Vertical sweep that scan the CRT from top
to bottom, Horizontal sweep that scans from side to side and High voltage which attracts
electrons to the screen to process image.

1.8.1 CRT Problems

The problems that could occur to the CRT may be due to physical shocks and/or aging of the
display system. Physical shock could dislodge elements inside the CRT to create an issue. Also,
regular and prolonged use of the display system could alter the physical dimension of the
cathode and grids, resulting in the development of slower, more gradual short circuit.

Below are some faults that are associated with CRT display system and their remedies.

Nature of Fault Symptoms Remedy

1.Heater is open Dead screen  Replace the tube.

2. Heater shorts to cathode Image appear saturated with the color of


due to accumulations, the defective electron gun (resistance
oxidation or corrosion. between heater wire and cathode should  Replace tube.
be infinite).

3. Cathode shorts to the


control grid (due to Control grid losses its effectiveness and  Replace tube.
corrosion flake- off of the the corresponding color will appear
cathode and contact to the saturated similar to a heater short.
control grid).

4. One or more colors


appear weak (due to Affected cathode (s) losses efficiency
 Replace tube.
barium emitter developing resulting in weakened screen color.
layer of ions or wear out,
inhibiting the release of

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electrons – ‘cathode
poisoning’)

5. Reduced sensitivity of
images. ‘Phosphor burn effect’ dark shadow cast  Keep brightness at
on screen after turning off the monitor. minimum and use
screen saver utility
if an image will sit
unchanging for a
long time.
 Replace tube.

6. Mage appear to
shake or oscillates -  Check 135V power
in size. supply output
7. Images appear to
flip or scroll Vertical oscillator IC is faulty in the  Replace the IC.
vertically. vertical circuit.
8. Image expand or
shrinks in
horizontal  Check the power
Thermal related problem.
direction when the supply.
monitor gets warm

1.9 Causes of keyboard/ mouse errors

1.9.1 Keyboard

The keyboard is one of the most basic input device used to navigate through the execution of
processes and programming with the help of keyboard device drivers which could be in-built into
the OS or in the case of extended keyboard (s); installed separately.

Keyboards are of different make in terms of Technology. There are:

Scissors switch (for notebooks)

Full press membrane (for desktop)

Direct switch (for phones hand held devices)

Capacitance switch

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Dome switch.

1.9.1.1 Keyboard failure symptoms

1. No character appears on screen as entered from the keyboard

2. Some keys work while some others don’t.

3. Error messages appearing such as six (6) short beeps (AMI BIOS), 301 error code (for IBM
compatible system).

4. Unplugged keyboard error appears

5. A keyboard is stuck.

1.9.1.2 Causes of keyboard error

a. Failure to re attach and re enable the keyboard from CMOS after disabling.

b. Wrong insertion of keyboard cable into the PC connector.

c. Positioning the keyboard switch in the “lock” position.

d. Problem with keyboard interface IC.

e. Broken connector at the power supply keyboard connector.

f. Broken connector’s soldering junctions on the MOBO.

g. Electrical contacts coated with impurities thereby failing to make good contact.

1.9.1.3 Preventive measures

Keyboard problems do not happen suddenly unless the keyboard is physically abused. Dust and
debris accumulation takes a long time to create serious repetitive keyboard problems. By
adopting a regular cleaning habit most problems can be stopped before they even occur. It is
advisable that in normal office environment keyboard should be cleaned once every 4 months, at
homes once every 2 months and more frequently in harsh industrial environments. Keyboards
should always be covered with ‘thin membrane skin ‘to prevent dusts.

1.9.2 Mouse

Mouse is a pointing device that provides easy means of selecting symbols (graphics, buttons or
icons) and text on the VDU. It uses a combination of software and hardware to produce and
control a graphical screen cursor.

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The software device driver generates the cursor and reports its position on the screen, then
interprets the motion of the hardware device corresponding to the movement of the cursor.
Selection is done by positioning the cursor over a graphical symbol and activating a button on
the mouse.

The mouse requires the following to work:

1. Physical signal generating hardware,


2. Software driver ( device driver),
3. Application program written to make use of the device driver.

The basic function of mouse is to click, double- click, drag and scrolling. Varieties of mouse
include:

Wireless or cordless mouse

G- stick mouse

Trackball mouse

Optical mouse

Mechanical; (or ball mouse). Etc.

1.9.2.1 Cleaning the mouse

The process of cleaning a ball mouse involves:

1. Remove the ball by rotating the retaining ring gently.


2. Clean the ball by washing thoroughly with soapy water, and then dry with towel.
3. Use photography- grade compressed air can to blow the dust out.
4. Clean he small pressure rollers and the X, Y rollers with a cotton swab dipped in
isopropyl alcohol.
5. Re assembles and test.

1.9.2.2 Causes of Mouse error, failure symptoms and remedy

Failure symptom Possible cause Remedy

1. Single mouse click ‘Double click’ speed is set too high. Lower the speeds
works but double- {start>settings>open
click doesn’t. control panel>double
click mouse icon and
adjust the double-click
speed slider under

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buttons tab}

2. Attempt to double-
click but gets
quadruple-click, or Likely a phenomenon called “button Clean the mouse buttons
attempt to single bounce” has occurred. This is as a result with good-quality
click and gets a of a hardware defect due to broken or electronic grade contact
double click. poorly buffered mouse buttons. cleaner. Replace the
3. Mouse stops working mouse.
Build up static charges (though not
after a few minutes sufficient to damage the mouse) in the o Spray the
only to resume when mouse that is interfering with the mouse surrounding
the PC is reboot. circuitry causing it to stop responding. carpet and
upholstery with a
very dilute fabric
softener to
dissipate static
built up.
o Ensure that the
PC and house
wiring is
grounded
properly
o Replace the
mouse with a
more static
resistant model.
4. Mouse port disabled Mostly a connection problem or set up
or mouse not present. problem. Ensure the mouse cable
is intact and is securely
attached to the PS/2 port.

Check the CMOS set up


and see that any entries
for your mouse are
enabled properly.
5. Error message “ this A wrong driver for the mouse has been
pointer device installed on the PC.
requires a newer Check the driver to be
version” sure the appropriate
driver for the mouse is in
place. Otherwise change

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the mouse type under
windows by removing
the old mouse reference
from the device manager,
then use the Add new
hardware wizard to
install the new mouse
manually.

2 COMPUTER SYSTEM PERIPHERALS

2.1 Peripheral Devices (PDe)

PDe, also known as peripheral, computer peripheral, input-output device or any of various
devices (including sensors) used to enter information and instruction into a computer for storage
or processing and to deliver the processed data to a human operator or, in some cases, a machine
controlled by the computer. In other word, it refers to an input/output unit of a system that feeds
data into and/or receives data from the central processing unit of a digital device.

Peripherals to a digital device include any device that is connected externally to the digital
device, any device internal to the digital device that connects the digital device by wire or cable,
and any circuit board designed for interchangeable mounting, internal or externally, that
increases the operating or processing speed of a digital device; such devices makeup the
peripheral equipment of modern digital computer system eg turbo cards and enhancement
boards.

2.1.1 Types of peripheral devices

Peripheral devices are commonly divided into three (3) kinds:

i. Input devices
ii. Output devices and
iii. Storage devices.

An input device converts incoming data and instruction into a pattern of electrical signals into
binary code that is understood by the computer. The output device reverses the process by
translating the digitized signals into a form intelligible to the user.

Input devices include: typewriter like keyboard, hand held devices such as the mouse, trackball,
joystick, track pad and special pen with pressure – sensitive pad, microphones, web cams, and

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digital cameras. They also include sensors that provide information about their environment-
temperature, pressure etc.

Output equipment includes visual display terminals, inkjet and laser printers, loud speakers,
headphones and devices such as flow valves that control machinery often in response to
computer processing of sector input data.

Some devices such as video display terminals and USB hubs may provide both input and outputs
functions. Other examples are devices that enable the transmission or reception of data between
computers e.g modems and network interfaces.

Most auxiliary storage devices such as CD-ROM drive, DVD drives, flash memory drives and
external disk drives also double as input/output devices. Even devices like smart phones tablet
computers and wearable devices like fitness trackers and smart watches can be considered as
peripherals albeit ones that can function independently.

2.1.2 Standards for connecting peripherals to computers.

a. Serial advanced technology attachment (SATA): - This is the most common interface or bus or
port that is used for connecting peripheral devices. A bus can be either serial or parallel. Serial
bus sends bit at a time while parallel bus sends byte. Serial connectors have fewer wires and are
generally simpler than parallel connections.

b. USB

2.2 Causes of Serial, Parallel and USB ports Failure.

As a general guide to resolving problems with devices that are connected to serial port or USB
port, do the following:

i. Verify that the port is enabled and is assigned a unique address


ii. Verify that each bus is assigned a unique address
iii. Verify that each port is assigned a unique address
iv. Verify that the device is properly installed and firmly seated
v. Verify that the serial port adapter, if you install one, is properly installed and firmly
seated
vi. If the failing device is a printer run the printer self- test
vii. Run diagnostics on the port: A serial or parallel port device failure may require
replacement of the system board, riser card or I/O board; if the component is found
defective by diagnostics. For parallel port install a wrap plug in the port and run the
diagnostic test to determine which field replacement unit (FRU) failed. If the
diagnostic tests (with the wrap plug installed) cannot detect the failure, replace the
cable. If that does not correct the problem replace the system board and adapter
connected to the cable, or the component indicated as failing in diagnosis.

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2.3 Causes of Ports failure and troubleshooting

Cause of failure Remedy

 Use of wrong Verify that the cable being used meets the specification for
cable. the device being connected. Try using a different cable that is
known to be good, to rule – out cable issues.

 Conflicts (caused Verify that ports have no conflicts, and are seen correctly in
by improper device manager. Conflicts exist if a yellow mark (!) is listed
resource next to the item. Opening device manager requires the
allocation in following steps: 1. Right – click on My computer. 2. Click
device manager). properties. 3. Select hardware tab in the properties window. 4.
Click the device manager button.

Power the system, 2. Press F1 to enter IBM


 Improper configuration set up, 3. Using the arrow keys
configuration of select Devices and I/O ports then press enter.
ports in the BIOS For serial port troubleshooting:
set-up Ensure that the port is marked Enabled, and
/configuration verify that the IRQ settings is correct for the
utility. port.
Set a unique IRQ for each SCSI, RAID or NIC
install in the system if possible to prevent
performance issues or hangs.
Disable any unused devices to free up IRQ
resources like serial ports, parallel port, on-
board SCSI if not in use. When ‘Disable’ is
selected, the system will not configure the
disabled device and the OS will not see the
device.
Press escape to return to the main menu.

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For the parallel port:
Using the arrow keys, select parallel port set
up the press Enter.
Ensure the parallel port is set to Enabled (do
not set it to PNP or Auto – configure)
Ensure the parallel port mode is set to Bi –
directional (do not set it to EPP, ECP or
EPP&ECP)
Press ESC to return to the main menu.
Select “save settings”, then Exit the set – up
utility.
Note: You can select “devices and I/O ports”
choice to view or change the assignments for
devices and input/output ports if need be. You
can add serial port by installing a serial
adapter in an expansion slot.

2.4 Cause of Printers’ failure

The reasons for Printers failure include:

1. Poor power supply


2. Improper connection to the PC
3. Ink issues
4. Corrupted or bad printer Driver/software
5. Printing to the wrong printer
6. Trying to print on a printer with “ use printer offline” option enabled (windows only)
7. Paper jam due to wrong insertion of paper, paper quality, broken tray, damaged rollers
(out – used) and leaking cartridges ( low – quality cartridges tend to leak a lot, and the
ink strays can cause paper jams after drying.
8. Clogged nozzles: If you are using an inkjet printer, the nozzles of the cartridge can get
blocked, causing fading output “ghostly” prints.
9. When ink gets collected on one side of the tower, some parts of the page get printed
perfectly while others are faded.

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10. Fuser and tuner problems (laser printers): laser fuser that warms up the tuner. On heating,
the tuner sticks to the sheet and then creates a print. But the fuser has to be adequately
attached to the tuner for it to create ideal prints. If the tuner sticks to the upper roller of
the fuser, it will lead to ghosted prints. The reason being that when the toner is attached
to the upper rollers of a fuser, whenever a print gets completed, some toner particles get
left behind. So, when you give any subsequent print command, the toner particles from
the previous print get deposited over the new one. This appears as a strange image called
a “ghost image”. Separating the toner from its upper rollers will solve the problem.
11. Low ink density: in many cases where the printer starts giving faded outputs, the
ink/toner density ratio is set to very low values. All you need to do is go to “Devices and
printers” settings and increase the ink/toner density slightly. In some printers the default
ink /toner density is low. Therefore, as soon as you get the printer, you should increase
the density slightly to prevent fading problems at least for a few years.
12. Contamination of cartridges leading to ink smearing: contaminants like dust, hair etc may
find their way into the ink cartridges, so when they accumulate in large quantities, they
get dragged across the sheet during every print. If the cartridge were not cleaned, the
instances of misprints would keep increasing.

2.5 Printer self –test

Printer status can be known; especially portable printers by doing the following:

Turn the printer power on by simultaneously holding down both the feed and power button for
5secondsor more (until printing begins). The printer will print the current printer status,
including the firmware version, communication mode and print setting.

3 .1 Definition of Virus

A true virus is a piece of code that attaches itself to an executable file and is not activated until
the executable file if launched.

3.1.1 Examples of Virus

Viruses can be categorized by where they hide themselves in the computer system. The
types are:
1. File virus: - This is the most common type of virus. This virus hides itself in
executable file such that when the executable file is run, then the virus is activated.
Example include…..
2. Macro virus: - These viruses attach themselves to portions of application and disguise
themselves as macros (an automated process within an application such as reading
and updating a data field or searching for and formatting specified text). Example
include …

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3. Boot sector virus : - This type of virus hides itself in the Master Boot record (MBR)
and is activated during start up when the MBR is located and initialized. Example
include…..

3 VIRUS PROTECTION UTILITY FAILURE AND REMEDY

3.1 Virus protection utilities failure.

Virus(s) normally replicates themselves into memory when they are introduced into computer
system either through floppy disks or flash disks, downloading files from the internet or
executing email attachments that launch a host program such as Word processing.

Antivirus programs are mainly designed to prevent viruses from having their way into the
computer system. Unfortunately, no system is completely immune to computer viruses because
new viruses are created all the time and could beat the ability of the antivirus utility in present
use to detect it, and also due to the fact that in most cases, antivirus utilities work by recognizing
and removing specific viruses; they are not useful against viruses that have been created since
the release of the utility itself.

When virus protection utility fails, the following are likely to happen as an indication:

i. Display of particular meaningless messages; like bouncing ping pong balls on the
screen.
ii. Running a video clip intermittently
iii. Changing of display colours

The above may be considered as non – destructive payload. More challenging effects of viruses
which are considered as destructive payload include:

a. Deleting of files
b. Closing of running application
c. Destruction of MBR
d. Unexpected crashes, etc.

3.3 Remedies

1. If antivirus utility is present, run it and instruct it to perform a virus scan and removal.

2. Keep up with updated versions of antivirus utility software in order to greatly reduce the risk
of being infected with newer trend of viruses.

3. If the antivirus in the system could not detect and remove the virus, and it appears the virus is
limited to the boot sector; use FDISK/MBR command. This could possibly replace the infected
MBR with a good copy from the floppy disk.

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4 NETWORKS AND NETWORK SET UP

4.1 Computer network

A computer network is a set of computers sharing resources located on or provided by network


nodes. It refers to interconnected computing devices that can exchange data and share resources
with each other. These network devices use a system of rules called communication protocols to
transmit information over physical or wireless technologies. See figure 4.1 and 4.2.

Figure 4.2: Wireless computer network


Figure 4.1: Wired computer network

Usually, networks are categorized into wired and wireless. The wired network uses physical
connection with cables that limits its application to personal area network (PAN) or local area
network (LAN) in most cases due to distance barrier. On the other hand, the wireless network
can be in form of wireless LAN, wireless metropolitan area network (WMAN), wireless PANs,
wireless wide area network and campus area network.

4.2 Hardware and Software components of a computer network

The major hardware components that are used in a computer network are: Server, client and
peer, transmission medium and connecting devices. The software components are basically, the
operating system and protocols.

4.3 Advantages of computer network

 Resource sharing; which is the main purpose of a network.


 Cost reduction: sharing devices such as printers saves money; more so, site (software)
licences are likely to be cheaper than buying several stand-alone licences.
 Network users can communicate by email and instant messengers like whatsapp, Tiktok
etc.

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 High reliability
 Improved performance; files can easily be shared between users .etc.

4.4 Network Topologies

A network topology describes how the nodes or devices (physical or virtual) in a network are
arranged; and how they communicate with each other.

The following are the common network topologies:

a. Bus topology: - This is used in small networks. Every node is connected along a linear
path.
b. Ring topology:- Nodes are connected in a loop, and traffic may flow in one direction or
both directions.
c. Star topology: - A central node connects to all other nodes in the network. It is a common
and stable topology used in LANs.
d. Mesh topology: - The nodes are linked in such a way that multiple paths between nodes
are possible. It increases the resilience of the network but also increases cost. A network
could be fully meshed ( all nodes connecting to all other nodes) or partially meshed ( only
some nodes having multiple connections to other nodes).
e. Spine – leaf (tree) topology: - Multiple star topologies are connected together in a larger
star configuration.
f. Hybrid topology: - A combination of other topologies used within one network.

4.5 Network set up (configuration)

A network configuration is the process of assigning network settings, policies, flows and
controls. In a virtual network it is easier to make network configuration changes because
physical network devices appliances are replaced by software; removing the need for extensive
manual configuration. Network configuration can also be automated and managed via a
centralized configuration manager called network configuration manager. This manager
reduces IT work load and makes it easier to:

1 maintain network

2 make configuration changes

3 re-launch devices, and

4 tracks and report data.

Some basic network configurations include:

 Switch/ router configuration


 Host configuration

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 Software and firewall configuration, and
 Network topology.

4.5.1 Importance of network configuration

The right configuration is essential to supporting the flow of traffic through a network, and can
also support and enhance network security, network stability. The use of network configuration
manager gives the following benefits:

1. Automatic data tracking and reporting allows administrators to spot any configuration
changes and potential threats or issues.
2. The means to quickly roll back network settings to a previous configuration.
3. An easy way to make bulk changes such as blanket password change in a situation where
passwords are compromised.
4. Reduce down time due to increased visibility and ability to quickly identify changes.
5. Streamline maintenance and repair of network devices (physical or virtual) and
connections.

4.5.2 Network setting procedure

 Select the start button, and then type settings. Select settings > Network & internet. The
status of your network connection will appear at the top.
 For windows 10, select start > settings > network & internet > status > network and
sharing centre.
 In windows 11, select start > type control panel, then select control panel > network and
internet > network and sharing centre.

4.5.3 Setting up a wireless connection (WI - FI) in Windows 7

1. Click the start button and then click control panel.

2. In the control panel window click network and internet

3. In the network and internet window click network and sharing centre

4. Under change your network settings, click set up a new connection or network.

5. In the window, click to select “manually connect to wireless network” and then click the
‘Next’ button.

6. In the window enter the appropriate Network name, security type, Encryption type and
security key. Note however that the network name (SSID), security type, encryption type and
security key information are configured on the wireless router or access point. If you are using a
default configuration, this information may be listed on bottom of the router or in the manual. If
you configured the router with custom settings, you may be able to locate it by logging into the

25
router set up page. If you can’t find this information, contact your network administrator or the
router manufacturer.

7. Verify that the box is checked next to “start this connection automatically” If you are
manually configuring your wireless network because the router isn’t broadcasting the SSID. You
must check the box next to “connect even if the network is not broadcasting”.

8. in the successfully added window click on close button. If after all these steps you still can’t
connect, and then verify the network name (SSID), security type, encryption type and security
key are correct and repeat the procedure.

4.5.4 Checking Network Configuration

In a command prompt environment; use ipConfig (for Windows), or ifConfig (for Linux network
configuration). With a network configuration manager or with APIs you can check and set up the
network configuration in a centralized software interface, allowing you to more readily
configure, monitor and administer your network.

4.5.5 Configuration of network switch and Router

Some of the configurable setting on a network switch and router include:

 IP address : - for identification


 Password: - for added security
 Channel and band selection: - to improve performance.
 Default gateway: - to make the device visible to network management tools.
 Neighbour discovery: - for added visibility
 Correct time: - for proper troubleshooting and detailed error logs.

Note that a network configuration manager is the easiest way to perform network switch
configuration and apply these settings consistently to every device on your enterprise network.

4.6 Network Operating Systems

A network OS is a computer OS that is designed primarily to support work stations, PCs and in
some instances older terminals that are connected on a LAN. The role of a Network OS is to
provide basic network services and features that support multiple input requests simultaneously
in a multiuser environment. The software behind a network OS enables multiple devices within a
network to communicate and share resources with each other.

There used to be two basic types of network OS. They are: Peer – to – peer (P2P) OSs, and
Client server network OSs.

The P2P type allows users to share network resources saved in a common accessible location.
All devices are treated equally in terms of function ability. It is best for small and medium LAN.

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The client server network OSs provide user with access to resources through a server. The
network is controlled centrally which makes changes or addition to technology easier to
incorporate.

However, a typical network OS no longer exist currently. The reason is, most OSs have built – in
network stacks that support a client- server model.

How to Fix a Modem That Won't Connect to the Internet

1. Check the lights on your modem. ...


2. Check the power supply and coaxial cables. ...
3. Reboot your router and modem. ...
4. Check your Ethernet cables. ...
5. Disconnect all connected devices. ...
6. Plug your computer into your modem. ...
7. Keep your modem cool. ...
8. Update your modem and router's firmware.

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