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Computer Repair with Diagnostic Flowcharts

This manual for troubleshooting PC hardware problems creates a visual expert system for diagnosing component failure and identifying conflicts.

The seventeen diagnostic flowcharts at the core of this book are intended for the intermediate to advanced hobbyist, or the beginning technician.

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A Guide To Building Your Own PC

Compiled by the editors at TigerDirect.com

What do you need to build your own custom computer? Believe it or not, it's not as complicated as it seems. There are ten basic steps to building the perfect PC:

1. Choose Your Processor First
2. Then Choose The Motherboard
3. Then Choose The Case & Power Supply
4. Then Choose Your Components
5. Prepare Your Workspace
6. Then Assemble Your Computer
7. Power On and Test
8. Install The Operating System
9. Install Updated Drivers
10. Install Application Software

Choose the Processor Before the Motherboard

The processor you choose usually determines which motherboard you select: Motherboards are designed to work with specific CPUs, indicated by the type of socket that the processor fits into. For example: Socket A, Socket 939, and Socket 940 are designed to work with Athlon processors, while Socket 478 and the new LGA socket 775 are for Intel CPUs. Many resellers offer bundles consisting of a processor, a motherboard, and memory; these can be a good way to save some money, and make the selection and compatibility process vastly easier.

Get the best processor and motherboard you can afford!

The system chip set (the chips that pass data between the peripherals and the CPU) is the other component that differs among motherboards; it determines which integrated components (graphics, sound, Ethernet, etc.) will be included. Though integrated graphics aren't generally as good as dedicated cards, they're usually adequate for simple office tasks (home users will probably want separate Video Adaptors for game playing).

The Computer Case (Chassis):

The variety of computer cases is staggering, with hundreds of styles, shapes and sizes available. We recommend that you look closely at the features. Some gorgeous PC cases are nightmares to work with, or are cheaply built.

Get the best case you can afford!

We recommend you ask for "tool-less" case design, which enables you to click > open, click > closed. Most cases and motherboards use the ATX form factor, standardizing the sizes of the components and all of the power connections. Speaking of power:

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Troubleshooting and Maintaining Your PC All-in-One For Dummies

Diagnose and solve your PC problems with this easy-to-understand guide. It shows you how to diagnose and solve the most common hardware and software problems your PC may encounter.

It also provides you with methods for preventing PC problems in the first place and clearly explains how to create a safe and secure PC environment.

• Walks you through ways to diagnose the most common PC hardware, software, and operating system problems.
• Gives clear and easy-to-understand solutions for confidently handling these problems.
• Provides methods to maintain your system to prevent future problems.
• Reviews an array of useful diagnostic and maintenance tools.
• Covers Windows Vista and Windows 7.

Troubleshooting and Maintaining Your PC All-in-One For Dummies helps you to confidently handle whatever PC problems you may encounter. Click here for more information.