Computer Fundamentals and Troubleshooting

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Windows Troubleshooting 101

Verify Connections Reboot

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Types of Connectors

DB-9, DB-25: used for serial and parallel port communications, respectively

RJ-11, RJ-12: standard telephone connectors RJ-45: network connector PS/2 (mini-DIN): supports mouse, scanners,

and some keyboards Centronics: supports printers USB: supports a variety of peripheral

devices

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IEEE 1394 (FireWire)

High-speed interface that allows up to 62 devices on a chain

Advantages: hot swap, inexpensive connectors, simple cable design

6 pin or 4 pin cable 400 Mbps data transfer May be referred to as:

IEEE 1394, FireWire, i.LINK

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Universal Serial Bus (USB) Connects peripherals outside the

computer Supports speeds of 12 Mbps (USB 1.1) Support speeds of 480 Mbps (USB 2.0) Offers the following advantages:

Hot swap Ease of adding new devices

Cable is A or B endedA B

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Parallel Printer Cables

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Troubleshooting Cables

Always check the cable first. Always check for loose connections. Check for bent or broken pins. Do not use force to insert cables Check for worn or frayed cables. Ensure that you are using the correct

cable.

Monitors

Troubleshooting your display

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Common Display Settings

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Monitor Maintenance

Properly ventilate the enclosure. Clean the face of the CRT gently. Use energy-saving features. Check the cables, including the power

and display cables. Check the front panel controls. Try another display adapter.

Basic Requirements of a Network

A network links computers for communicating and sharing information and resources.

A network must provide Connections Communications Services

Local Area Networks

Cover a limited distance Allow sharing of data, peripherals,

software, and storage

Wide Area Networks

Span relatively large areas Typically consist of two or more LANs Are connected using telephone or

leased lines

Network Operating System

Network operating systems (NOSs) provide the ability to share file, print, and other services.

Computers can be servers, clients, or both.

Network Interface Cards (NICs) Provide the physical connection

between the computer’s expansion bus and the network cable

Boost the digital signal from the computer

IP Addressing

TCP/IP Address – Uniquely identifies your computer on the network

Allows communication on the LAN and to the internet

Your IP Address must be unique – address conflicts cause loss of connectivity

IPCONFIG 169.254.x.x or 0.0.0.0

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Address Specifics

IP Address Subnet Mask Default Gateway DNS WINS

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File Server Domain Controller

Building Firewall

DDN/Internet

School Network Layout