1100 Ch04: Preventative Maintenance

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Questions and Answers

What are common causes of power problems in a computer system?

Insufficient memory capacity

Inadequate software updates

Faulty power supply and loose connections (correct)

Incorrect operating system settings

Which of the following is a key aspect of documentation in technical repairs?

Avoiding the use of notes during troubleshooting

Keeping all invoices confidential

Focusing solely on customer inquiries

Documenting every detail of repairs and services (correct)

What does preventive maintenance primarily help reduce?

Software installation times

Customer reporting errors

Frequency of equipment failures (correct)

Internet connectivity issues

Which personal reference tool is crucial for maintaining a history of repairs?

Repair journal Signup and view all the answers

What commonly causes display problems?

Loose power cables Signup and view all the answers

Which internet resource is beneficial for troubleshooting hardware problems?

Manufacturer FAQs Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a benefit of preventive maintenance?

Increased computer downtime Signup and view all the answers

What is one benefit of preventive maintenance?

Improvement in data protection Signup and view all the answers

Which task is considered part of software preventive maintenance?

Checking and removing unused programs Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial factor for developing a preventive maintenance plan?

Computer location or environment Signup and view all the answers

What effect does dust accumulation have on computer components?

Prevents air flow and reduces cooling Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a basic troubleshooting method?

Using an organized and logical approach Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial first step before troubleshooting problems on a computer?

Check if data has been backed up Signup and view all the answers

In creating a software maintenance schedule, what is one of the key tasks that should be included?

Defragment hard drives Signup and view all the answers

In a high-traffic network, what additional maintenance might be required?

Increased scanning and removal of malware Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes an essential aspect of troubleshooting?

Following a systematic approach Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended way to clean the outside of a computer case?

Wiping with a cloth or duster Signup and view all the answers

What should you avoid doing if you are unsure whether a data backup has been performed?

Performing troubleshooting activities Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to maintain an optimal operating environment for computers?

To prevent breakdown from heat and contaminants Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to verify that installed software is current?

To address security vulnerabilities Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of troubleshooting in IT?

To systematically solve problems Signup and view all the answers

Which action helps in preventing issues related to software during preventive maintenance?

Updating virus definition files and scanning for threats Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason customer documentation is important in troubleshooting?

It helps in tracking previous issues and solutions Signup and view all the answers

During troubleshooting, why is asking the right questions significant?

To better understand the problem at hand Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with unwanted or unused programs as part of software maintenance?

Remove them to optimize system performance Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Power Supply and Hardware Problems

Power issues often stem from a faulty power supply, loose connections, or inadequate wattage.
CPU and memory challenges may arise due to improper installations, BIOS settings, insufficient cooling, and compatibility conflicts.
Display problems can result from incorrect settings, loose connections, or corrupted drivers.

Customer Service and Documentation

Good customer service entails providing detailed problem descriptions and solutions.
Technicians should document all services and repairs for reference by others, aiding in troubleshooting similar issues in the future.

Personal Reference Tools

Essential reference tools include troubleshooting guides, manufacturer manuals, and repair journals.
Keeping notes during repairs helps avoid repeating steps and clarifies the next actions required.
A repair journal should detail problem descriptions, attempted solutions, configuration changes, and parts replaced to assist future troubleshooting.
A comprehensive history of repairs, including dates and customer details, aids in tracking previously addressed issues.

Internet Reference Tools

The internet serves as a valuable resource for troubleshooting hardware problems:
- Search engines for general inquiries.
- Newsgroups and technical forums for community insights.
- Manufacturer FAQs and online manuals for specific device information.

Preventive Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Regular preventive maintenance leads to fewer hardware/software problems, reduced downtime, and lower repair costs.
Recommended values for equipment in extreme conditions should be researched and maintained.
Install software updates promptly and create a maintenance schedule to include security updates and virus scans.

Introduction to Troubleshooting

Effective troubleshooting requires an organized, logical approach to pinpoint issues systematically.
Use targeted questions, test relevant hardware, and examine data to identify causes and formulate solutions.
Skills develop through experience, enabling quicker resolutions and adaptive processes.

Data Backup Importance

A data backup ensures information is preserved, either on external devices or cloud storage.
Regular backups may occur daily, weekly, or monthly; always confirm backup status before troubleshooting.
Liability release forms should be used when working without current backups to mitigate risk if data loss occurs.

Preventive Maintenance Strategies

Regular inspections, cleaning, and equipment part replacement enhance system efficiency and longevity.
Factors like computer location (dusty environments) and usage (high-traffic networks) determine maintenance frequency.
Benefits include improved data protection, extended equipment life, and cost savings.

Dust Management

Clean or replace air filters regularly to minimize dust accumulation.
Use appropriate cleaning methods to maintain the external cleanliness of computer components, preventing airflow blockages that lead to overheating.

Troubleshooting Process Steps

Identify the problem by gathering information and questioning users.
Develop a theory regarding probable causes based on gathered information.
Test the theory to confirm the specific cause of the problem.
Plan and implement actions to resolve the issue, ensuring thorough functionality verification afterward.
Document findings, actions taken, and results for future reference.

Questioning Techniques

Utilize open-ended questions for customers to provide detailed problem descriptions.
Follow with closed-ended questions for specific confirmations, facilitating diagnostic clarity.

Beep Codes

Each BIOS manufacturer has distinct beep sequences indicating hardware failures during POST.
Document beep codes and research them to identify potential hardware issues accurately.

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Description

Explore common power supply and hardware issues with this quiz, covering areas such as CPU, memory challenges, and display problems. Understand the importance of customer service, detailed documentation, and personal reference tools in resolving technical issues effectively.