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Setting up your PC

November 11, 2009

The Configuration
When you first set up a new PC, you should refer to the owner’s manual for all technical specifications. To start your PC Notebook, document the following basic configuration information: 

Make, model, and speed of CPU
Amount of RAM and what type the system uses
The make, model, and speed of any internal/external drives (Hard Drive, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM or DVD-RAM drive)
Make, model, and memory of your video card
Type of monitor and the resolutions it supports
Operating System (OS) and its version number
A list of preinstalled software applications
Make, model, and speed of any internal/external modem or fax modem
A list of other peripherals (sound card, speakers, network card, etc.)
 

PC Problems
With the information you’ve gathered in the PC Notebook you created on the previous page, you’re ready to start using some basic troubleshooting skills to take on any computer problem that occurs. As problems arise, start a new page in the notebook for each issue.  You’ll want to document the problem, the date/time it occurs and make detailed notes using the following questions:

What is the exact error message or nature of the problem?
When did the problem first occur?
What applications were open when the problem occurred?
Has the problem occurred more than once?
What tasks were you performing when the problem occurred?
What changes have recently been made to your system?

By asking these questions, you’re trying to isolate and determine exactly what was going on with your PC when the problem occurred and ultimately, why it happened