Diagnostic Support

SOFTWARE

When you feel that you may be experiencing Software problems with your PC, these could consist of slow running, long start-up processes, or poor internet performance. Some of these points may assist you in enhancing your PC performance:

  • Check the size of your profile in Documents & Settings
  • Analysis of any Hard Disk Drive (HDD) you are using - defragmentation might be necessary
  • Ensure your anti-virus package is up-to-date, running a full system scan of your PC
  • System updates may be available to enhance the performance of your system
  • Run anti-spyware programs, removing any intrusion software that is not relevant
  • Are all currently running programs necessary

There are many tools available over the internet, some of which are freeware products that can help you identify exactly why and where your system is experiencing problems. A few examples of some useful links are:


Please be aware that spy-ware and unnecessary temporary internet files can cause a huge load on your system, so we suggest that these areas are closely monitored and maintained to ensure optimum system performance.

Please contact us for further information


HARDWARE

Below we have listed some key points that we feel may help you with diagnosing hardware related problems:

  • Does the system switch on power-up as normal
  • System crashes without warning
  • Has the problem occurred after a recent install/upgrade
  • Does the system lock-up/crash prior to operating system
  • View event logs within your operating system

Diagnosing faulty hardware can sometimes be very time consuming and prove complicated, so it is often a good idea to use some system tools to help identify problems. These tools are extremely useful, and can diagnose faults from the very beginning of a system start-up as they can run from an install boot CD/Disk.

If you are interested in trying these tools, please use the links below:


If you find you are still experiencing problems and having difficulty in diagnosing the fault, please contact us for further support.

Please contact us for further information


Repair/upgrade advice

We feel this section should be read in conjunction with our Diagnostic Support section. We would also like to advise that when investigating a system for repair/upgrade, be mindful:

  • That when you are replacing the faulty component(s) they are of appropriate specification
  • One part failing can sometimes mean another part being compromised
  • Event logs within your operating system are checked for errors
  • Some upgrades may require other parts upgraded at the same time in order to function
  • All replacement parts or upgrades are compatible with current system

On occasions a specific hardware fault can sometimes cause other hardware faults, to best explain this please read the following examples:

  • A Power Supply Unit (PSU) failing - could result in a new PSU needing to be fitted and possible a new motherboard or memory, due to the spiking that may occur with the PSU blowing.

  • A faulty fan - could result in a new fan needing to be fitted and possibly a new Central Processing Unit (CPU), due to the smaller components being very sensitive to heat.

When looking for parts for your system always investigate the cost and the alternatives available. Costs for replacements can vary, and it is always worth being mindful that when looking to repair a part that it could provide an opportunity to upgrade, as technology is a rapidly progressing industry.

Please contact us for further information


Speed Testing your Broadband connection

When you subscribe to a Broadband provider they advise you of the link speed you are contracted to, however, it is often nice to know what you are actually receiving to your PC.

As per our previous section (Diagnostic Support), problems with a non-managed system can manifest in many ways on your system - some of which can cause your system not to utilise the full bandwidth you are paying for.

Please try this link below to check you connectivity speed.


If you find that you are experiencing problems with your internet speed, we suggest you contact your internet service provider to discuss in more detail.