Chapter 2: Troubleshooting Procedures and Guidelines

Exam Objectives

check.png Identifying uses and purpose for standard troubleshooting tools

check.png Understanding and applying troubleshooting techniques to isolate and resolve problems for major computer system components

In the preceding chapter, I show you preventive maintenance routines for your system’s devices. Still, no matter how much preventive maintenance you perform, “something” will eventually go wrong. This chapter continues with the topic of troubleshooting devices — after those “somethings” go wrong.

As a CompTIA A+ Certified Professional, you will be required to repair components from many areas of the computer system. This chapter covers the hardware and software tools of the trade that will help you complete troubleshooting tasks quickly. You will also review the major components found in computer systems and address any troubleshooting steps related to those components.

Identifying Troubleshooting Tools

A good troubleshooting arsenal contains many weapons, both hardware and software. After all, not every computer problem is related to the hardware. And even when it is, software tools can sometimes help with the diagnosis. If you are doing field support, create a troubleshooting kit in a handy carrying case with all the tools you ...

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