Identification of faults and replacement of faulty parts

 

1️⃣ Introduction ⚠️

Definition:
Fault identification and replacement is the process of detecting defective components in a computer or laptop and replacing them to restore normal operation.

Goal:

  • Ensure system functionality ✅

  • Prevent further damage ⚡

  • Improve reliability and performance 🖥️

Safety Precautions:

  • Power off and unplug 🔌

  • Use anti-static wrist strap

  • Handle sensitive components like CPU, RAM, and GPU carefully 🧠


2️⃣ Common Computer Faults & Symptoms 📝

Faulty ComponentSymptomPossible Cause
SMPSNo power / computer not startingBlown fuse, capacitor failure
MotherboardNo POST beep / random crashesDamaged traces, failed components
CPUSystem won’t boot / overheatingImproper seating, thermal paste issue
RAMFrequent crashes / BSODFaulty module, incorrect slot
Hard Disk / SSDSlow performance / drive not detectedBad sectors, controller failure
Graphics Card (GPU)No display / artifactsOverheating, driver issues
Keyboard / MouseUnresponsiveFaulty cable, driver, or mechanical failure
MonitorNo display / flickeringLoose cable, backlight issue
CD/DVD DriveCannot read discsDirty lens, mechanical failure

3️⃣ Steps to Identify Faults 🔍

Step 1: Visual Inspection 👀

  • Check cables, connectors, burns, bulging capacitors

Step 2: Power-On Test

  • Check LEDs, fans, beeps

  • Listen for POST beep codes

Step 3: Swap / Isolate Components 🔄

  • Replace suspected faulty part with known working part

  • Test if problem resolves

Step 4: Software Diagnostics 💻

  • Run BIOS/UEFI diagnostics

  • Use tools like MemTest86 (RAM), CrystalDiskInfo (HDD/SSD)

Step 5: Thermal / Stress Test 🌡️

  • Check overheating components (CPU/GPU)

  • Use stress-testing software for stability


4️⃣ Replacement of Faulty Parts 🛠️

Desktop Replacement Steps

  1. Power off & unplug 🔌

  2. Open case and locate faulty component

  3. Remove screws/cables carefully

  4. Replace with compatible new component

  5. Reconnect cables, secure with screws

  6. Power on & test

Laptop Replacement Steps

  1. Power off & remove battery 🔋

  2. Open service panel

  3. Identify faulty part (RAM, storage, keyboard, Wi-Fi card, cooling fan)

  4. Carefully detach component (remove screws, ribbon cables)

  5. Insert new compatible part

  6. Reassemble & power on for testing


5️⃣ Best Practices

  • Always document the fault and steps for reference 📝

  • Handle sensitive parts like CPU, RAM, and motherboard with care ⚡

  • Use compatible parts for replacement (check specs)

  • Test system after replacement before closing cabinet 🖥️

  • Maintain anti-static precautions at all times ⚡


6️⃣ Quick Fault-Finding Checklist 🧠

  1. No power → Check SMPS & power cord

  2. No display → Check GPU, monitor, cable connections

  3. Frequent crashes → Test RAM, overheating, driver issues

  4. Slow system → Check HDD/SSD health, virus, RAM capacity

  5. Peripheral not working → Test keyboard/mouse and drivers


💡 Tip: Think of fault detection like diagnosing a patient 🩺—observe symptoms, test systematically, and replace defective parts carefully.

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