No matter what type of computer you use or how you use it, the motherboard is your most critical component. If there is a problem with the motherboard, you may notice a wide array of strange behaviors, from unexpected shutdowns and program crashes to a computer that simply refuses to boot. If you suspect your system's motherboard is experiencing problems, it is important to determine the source of the problem and get it resolved as soon as possible.
Instructions
1. Log on to your computer if you can get it to boot. Connect an external hard drive or flash drive to your computer's USB port and copy all of your user files to that drive.
2. Shut down your computer and remove the power cord. Put a ground strap on your wrist to protect your computer and its motherboard from a discharge of static electricity. These grounding straps are widely available at computer stores and electronics retailers, as well as from many Internet sites. In order to work effectively, the grounding strap will need to be clipped to the metal chassis on the computer.
3. Locate the retaining screws on the back of your computer's case and remove them. Find the case removal lever and remove the case cover. If you have a desktop computer, the case removal lever should be on the top. If you have a tower PC, the lever will probably be on the side.
4. Look for any warning lights on the motherboard. Many motherboards have built-in warning lights that help computer users pinpoint the source of any problems. If you do notice any warning lights, be sure to consult the user guide that came with your computer or your motherboard. This information should be available online as well, at the computer manufacturer's website or at the motherboard maker's site.
5. Remove the memory modules one at a time and try to boot your computer. A bad memory module can often cause a computer to fail or behave erratically. Continue removing the memory modules one at a time until the bad one has been identified. After the bad memory module has been found, it can be replaced with a new one.
6. Disconnect each piece of hardware in your computer one by one, booting your computer after each removal to test for errors, until the source of the problem has been identified. Remove the cable that runs from the CD or DVD drive, then disconnect the floppy drive or PC card reader and any other add-on devices. Remove any PCI cards or other add-on devices from the slots. Continue removing each piece of equipment until the source of the problem is identified.
Tags: your computer, source problem, warning lights, add-on devices, been identified