Computers, I'm convinced, must be related to housecats. Just when you think everything is purring along nicely, a computer can stick its claws right into your heart. One moment it's a computer, the next it's a big paperweight. That shocking instant -- when you hit the power switch and nothing happens -- triggers a fine cloud of panic that turns even the most rational person into a wild-eyed fixing machine. Today, while we are both calm, let's map out a game plan for that inevitable day. Stick this column in a desk drawer so it can help you calm down and avoid making things worse. At the risk of sounding like a Zen master, first do nothing. Almost anything you do in the first moments is likely to be wrong. Calmly jot down any symptoms that occurred in the days before the computer died, as well as what you were doing at the time. You may find a clue there. Now that you've had time to let the panic settle, check the most obvious causes. And yes, that starts with checking to see that the power cord connections are sound. Then check to make sure the surge protector or UPS is turned on and plugged in. Some surge protectors and power strips can automatically switch off if electricity to your home is interrupted. Plug a small lamp or other AC device into the power outlet you're using to make sure a circuit breaker hasn't popped. Next look at the front panel of your computer. Are any lights on? If not, the power supply may have gone bad. It's an easy replacement -- most large computer stores offer them -- but many will be leery of that repair. Those of you who are competent to do it probably know it and those who aren't know it too (I hope) . But what if the front panel lights are on but the machine won't do anything? Let's turn it off and see what it can say for itself. Hit the power switch and restart. Do you see an on-screen message when the computer restarts? For instance, if the hard disk has failed you'll see a message. But that's not the only way a computer can tell you its woes. Most use beeping sounds to alert you to problems. The meanings of these codes vary according to the kind of motherboard installed in the computer. Your manual will tell you the type of motherboard installed, or you can use another computer to check the manufacturer's Web site. Once you know the brand of motherboard you can use this site to decipher the beeps: http://www.computerhope.com/beep.htm Of course, the computer may be mute: No on-screen messages, no beeps. If so, try disconnecting any unneeded accessories -- printers, scanners, etc. -- and turn the machine on again. At times, a malfunctioning device will cause the problem, and if not you can at least rule it out. The next step is to open the case. Some of you will be reluctant. That's fine. There's nothing wrong with packing up the computer and taking it to a repair shop at this point. – Cox News Service __
