PC BASICS

COMPUTER
Today's computers are electronic devices that accept data (input), process that data, produce output,
and then store (storage) the results.
The first digital computer and what most people think of as a computer was called the ENIAC, built
during World War II (1943-1946). Early computers like the ENIAC used vacuum tubes and were large
(sometimes room size) and only found in businesses, Universities, or governments. Later, computers
began utilizing transistors as well as smaller and cheaper parts that allowed the common person to own
a computer.

COMPUTER COMPONENTS

HARDWARE
Abbreviated as HW, Hardware is best described as any physical component of a computer system
that contains a circuit board, ICs, or other electronics. Whether it be a computer monitor, tablet or
smartphone; it's hardware.
The collection of physical elements that constitutes a computer system.
Without any hardware, your computer would not exist, and software could not be used.

1
External hardware examples Internal hardware examples
Flat-panel, Monitor, and LCD Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Keyboard Drive (e.g. Blu-Ray, CD-ROM, DVD, floppy
Mouse drive, and hard drive)
Microphone Motherboard
Printer RAM
Projector Network card
Scanner Sound card
Speakers Video card
USB thumb drive Modem
Fan (heat sink)

2
Computer cannot work without having at the very minimum the below parts.
Motherboard;
CPU (processor);
Memory (RAM);
Storage device (e.g. hard drive).
Of course if you had a computer with the above minimum parts for you to communicate with it you
would need at least one input device such as a keyboard.

System unit / Computer case (rectangular box) - The core of a computer system. The chassis is the
housing that helps protect and organize all the components that make up a desktop computer.

Motherboard
The motherboard is the main
component of a computer. It is a large rectangular board with integrated circuitry that connects the other
parts of the computer including the CPU, the RAM, the disk drives (CD, DVD, hard disk, or any others)
as well as any peripherals connected via the ports or the expansion slots.

Components directly attached to or to part of the motherboard include:

The CPU (Central Processing Unit), which performs most of the calculations which enable a
computer to function, and is sometimes referred to as the brain of the computer. It is usually cooled
by a heatsink and fan, or water-cooling system. Most newer CPUs include an on-die Graphics
Processing Unit (GPU). The clock speed of CPUs governs how fast it executes instructions, and is
measured in GHz; typical values lie between 1 GHz and 5 GHz. Many modern computers have the
option to overclock the CPU which enhances performance at the expense of greater thermal output
and thus a need for improved cooling.
The chipset, which includes the north bridge, mediates communication between the CPU and the
other components of the system, including main memory.
Random-Access Memory (RAM), which stores the code and data that are being actively accessed
by the CPU. Temporarily stores information that CPU uses while the computer is on. The
information stored in RAM is erased when the computer is turned off. RAM usually comes on
DIMMs in the sizes 2GB, 4GB, and 8GB, but can be much larger.
Read-Only Memory (ROM), which stores the BIOS that runs when the computer is powered on or
otherwise begins execution, a process known as Bootstrapping, or "booting" or "booting up." The
BIOS (Basic Input Output System) includes boot firmware and power management firmware.
Newer motherboards use Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) instead of BIOS.
Buses that connect the CPU to various internal components and to expand cards for graphics and
sound.
The CMOS battery, which powers the memory for date and time in the BIOS chip. This battery is
generally a watch battery.
The video card (also known as the graphics card), which processes computer graphics. More
powerful graphics cards are better suited to handle strenuous tasks, such as playing intensive video
games.
Expansion cards. An expansion card in computing is a printed circuit board that can be inserted
into an expansion slot of a computer motherboard or backplane to add functionality to a computer
system via the expansion bus. Expansions cards can be used to obtain or expand on features not
offered by the motherboard.

Storage
Your computer has one or more disk drivesdevices that store information on a metal or plastic disk.
The disk preserves the information even when your computer is turned off.
Hard disk drive
Your computer's hard disk drive stores information on a hard diska rigid platter or stack of platters with
a magnetic surface. Because hard disks can hold massive amounts of information, they usually serve
as your computer's primary means of storage, holding almost all of your programs and files. The hard
disk drive is normally located inside the system unit.

Peripherals (Input and Output Devices)

A peripheral is any accessory or add-on that can be attached (connected) to your computer, but is not
required.
For example, a computer printer is a perfect example of a peripheral.
A peripheral is a "device that is used to put information into or get information out of the
computer."
There are three different types of peripherals:
1) Input devices, which interact with or send data from the user to the computer (keyboards,
computer mice, graphic tablets, touchscreens, barcode readers, image scanners, microphones,
webcams, game controllers, light pens, and digital cameras);
2) Output devices, which provide output to the user from the computer (computer displays, printers,
projectors, and computer speakers), and
3) Input/output devices that perform both functions (Touchscreens).

Other examples of peripherals are image scanners, tape drives, microphones, loudspeakers, webcams,
and digital cameras. Many modern devices, such as digital watches, smartphones and tablet
computers, have interfaces that allow them to be used as a peripheral by desktop computers, although
they are not host-dependent in the same way as other peripheral devices.

What are hardware upgrades?

A hardware upgrade is any new hardware better than that which it replaced or additional hardware that
improves performance. A good example of a common hardware upgrade is a RAM upgrade, where the
user increases the computer's total memory. Another good example is a video card upgrade, which is
the act of removing an old video card and replacing it with a newer, better one.

Cable
Alternatively referred to as a cord, connector or plug, a cable is one or more wires covered in a plastic
covering that connects a computer to a power source or other device.
There are two main types of computer cables, a data cable and a power cable.
A data cable is a cable that provides communication between devices. For example, the data cable that
connects your monitor to your computer and allows your computer to display a picture on the monitor.
Other examples of data cables include the CAT5, IDE/EIDE, SATA, and USB cables.
A power cable is any cable that powers the device. For example, the power cord that connects to your
computer and a Molex style cable inside the computer are both good examples of power cables. Below,
is a listing of the most common types of cables found with computers and electronics and examples of
devices that use them.

Types of cables
AT - Used with early keyboards
ATA - Used with hard drives and disc drives
CAT5 - Used with network cards
Coaxial - Used with TV and projectors
Composite (RCA) - Used with TV, projectors, and consoles
DisplayPort - Used with computer monitors
DVI - Used with monitors, projectors, and other displays
e-SATA - Used with external drives
Firewire (IEEE-1394) - Used with digital cameras and external drives
HDMI - Used with monitors, projectors, DVD/Blu-ray players, and other displays
MIDI - Used with musical keyboards and other equipment
Mini plug - Used with headphones, microphones, speakers
Molex - Power cable used inside your computer
IDE/EIDE - Used with hard drives and disc drives
Parallel - Used with printers
PS/2 - Used with keyboards and mice
S-Video - Used with projectors, digital cameras, and other displays
S/PDIF - Used with DVD and surround sound.
SATA - Used with hard drives and disc drives
SCSI - Used with hard drives, tape drives, and disc drives
Serial (RS-232) - Used with a mouse and Modem.
Thunderbolt - Primarily used with Apple displays and devices
USB - Used with keyboard, mouse, printer, MP3 players, and thousands of other devices
VGA/SVGA - Used with monitors and projectors

Connectors - What is the difference between a connector, jack, plug, and port?

Connector. A connector is the unique end of a plug, jack, or the edge of a card that connects into a
port. For example, all desktop computer expansion cards have a connector that allows the card to be
connect into a slot on the motherboard.
When referring to cables, the connector is the end of the cable that connects into a port. For
example, the end of a USB cable has a connector that allows it to connect into a USB port.
Connectors consist of plugs (male-ended) and jacks (female-ended).

Plug. The plug is part of a cable that connects into a port. The plug always connects to something else
(e.g. a jack or port). For example, the most common plug is the power plug that connects your computer
and monitor to a power source and allows it to turn on and boot.
Commonly refers to a movable (less fixed) connector, often with male
electrical contact or pin.
The picture shows an example of a traditional desktop power cord with a
male plug end that connects to the wall socket and the female plug end that
connects to the computer or monitor.

Jack. A jack is similar to a port and is a hole or other connection that allows a
compatible plug to be connected into the jack. With computers jack is usually used to describe an audio
jack.
Commonly refers to a connector with female electrical contact or socket, and is usually more fixed
connector of a connector pair.

To summarize, it is considered best practice to use "male" and "female" for connector gender, and
"plug" and "jack" for connector function or mobility.

Port. The port has either holes or a slot that matches the plug or card being
connected into the port. The picture shows an example of a PS/2 port found on
the back of computers that allows a keyboard and mouse with a PS/2 connector
to connect to the computer.
Note: There are also software ports, for example, port 80 is a network port that
allows HTTP traffic (i.e. browsing the Internet) over a network.

Socket. A socket is an opening that is designed to fit another device. A perfect

example of a socket with a computer is a CPU socket, which is a socket on the motherboard that allows
a CPU to connect to the computer.
Slot. A slot is also a connection used with computers that can either describe a CPU slot or an
expansion slot. Today, CPU sockets are used instead of CPU slots, but expansion slots are still used to
connect expansion cards to the computer.

SOFTWARE
Sometimes abbreviated as SW and S/W, software is a collection of instructions that enable the user
to interact with a computer, its hardware, or perform tasks. Without software, computers would be
useless. For example, without your Internet browser, you could not surf the Internet or read this page
and without an operating system, the browser could not run on your computer. The picture to the right
shows a Microsoft Excel box, an example of a spreadsheet software program.

Software can be categorized according to what it is designed to accomplish. There are two main types
of software: systems software and application software.
Systems software, which is software that directly operates the computer hardware, to provide basic
functionality needed by users and other software, and to provide a platform for running application
software. System software includes:
Operating systems, which are essential collections of software that manage resources and provides
common services for other software that runs "on top" of them.Supervisory programs, boot loaders,
shells and window systems are core parts of operating systems. In practice, an operating system
comes bundled with additional software (including application software) so that a user can potentially
do some work with a computer that only has an operating system.
Device drivers, which operate or control a particular type of device that is attached to a computer.
Each device needs at least one corresponding device driver; because a computer typically has at
minimum at least one input device and at least one output device, a computer typically needs more
than one device driver.
Utilities, which are computer programs designed to assist users in the maintenance and care of their
computers.
Application software, which is software that uses the computer system to perform special functions or
provide entertainment functions beyond the basic operation of the computer itself. There are many
different types of application software, because the range of tasks that can be performed with a modern
computer is so largesee list of software.
Malicious software or malware, which is software that is developed to harm and disrupt computers. As
such, malware is undesirable. Malware is closely associated with computer-related crimes, though
some malicious programs may have been designed as practical jokes.

How do you get software?

Software can be purchased at a retail computer store or online and come in a box containing all the
disks (floppy diskette, CD, DVD, or Blu-ray), manuals, warranty, and other documentation.
Software can also be downloaded to a computer over the Internet. Once downloaded, setup files are
run to start the installation process on your computer.
Free software. There are also millions of free software programs available that are separated into
different categories.
Shareware or trial software is software that gives you a few days to try the software before you
have to buy the program. After the trial time expires, you'll be asked to enter a code or to register
the product before you can continue to use it.
Freeware is completely free software that never requires payment, as long as it is not modified.
Open source software is similar to freeware. Not only is the program given away for free, but the
source code used to make the program is as well, allowing anyone to modify the program or view
how it was created.

OPERATING SYSTEM
An operating system or OS is a software on the hard drive that enables the computer hardware to
communicate and operate with the computer software. Without a computer operating system, a
computer and software programs would be useless.
It provides graphical interface for people to use computer and other software on the computer.
Classification of Operating systems
Multi-user: Allows two or more users to run programs at the same time. Some operating systems
permit hundreds or even thousands of concurrent users.
Multiprocessing: Supports running a program on more than one CPU.
Multitasking: Allows more than one program to run concurrently.
Multithreading: Allows different parts of a single program to run concurrently.
Real time: Responds to input instantly. General-purpose operating systems, such as DOS and UNIX,
are not real-time.
Operating systems provide a software platform on top of which other programs, called application
programs, can run. The application programs must be written to run on top of a particular operating
system.
Examples of popular desktop operating systems include Apple OS X, Linux and its variants, and
Microsoft Windows. So-called mobile operating systems include Android and iOS.

DEVICE DRIVER
More commonly known as a driver, a device driver or hardware driver is a group of files that enable
one or more hardware devices to communicate with the computer's operating system. Without
drivers, the computer would not be able to send and receive data correctly to hardware devices, such as
a printer.
If the appropriate driver is not installed, the device may not function properly, if at all. For Microsoft
Windows users, a driver conflict or an error can be seen in the Device Manager. If problems or conflicts
are encountered with a driver, the computer manufacturer or hardware manufacturer will release a
driver update to fix the problems.

How to install and update a computer driver?

How a driver is packaged determines how it should be installed. Below is additional information about
each of the methods developers use to distribute their drivers as well as how to install them in Microsoft
Windows. Additionally, there are some general insights to help prevent frustrations during the process.
Installing driver from CD, USB drive, or floppy diskette.

Downloading and installing driver

Drivers on CD or floppy diskettes
Almost all computer and hardware manufacturers include a group of drivers for different hardware
devices and often for each of the supported versions of Windows. For example, the driver CD you
receive with your printer likely contains the drivers for dozens of different printers and not just the
printer you purchased. When installing the drivers, make sure you are installing the drivers for your
printer and not another printer model. Also, make sure you are installing it for the version of Windows
you are running on your computer.
Downloading drivers
Many drivers you download are going to be a single executable file. If the file is not a single
executable file, it is a compressed file that contains all the driver files. To install the driver, you will first
need to uncompress the file.
When extracting the drivers, make sure to remember where you place the folder containing the
drivers since you need to point to this folder as part of the driver installation process. We recommend
extracting the driver files to a folder on the Windows Desktop, as it is an easy place to remember and
locate and can be easily removed after driver installation is complete.
Tip: If you downloading drivers to install on another device, you can copy or extract the driver files to
a USB flash drive and connect the USB drive to the other device.
Executable
Many computer and hardware manufacturers today are pre-packaging their drivers into executable
files or have the drivers installed through the setup file. Double-clicking the executable or setup file
should install the drivers to the computer for you.
Note: Many developers may package their drivers in a compressed file, which means before looking
for the setup file, you need to uncompress the downloaded file. Information about doing this is
explained above. If after uncompressing the file, it still does not contain an executable file, setup file,
or does not install your hardware device, continue with the below recommendations.
Finally, if you are successful with installing your drivers, make sure to reboot the computer after the
drivers have been installed.
Using the "have disk" option
Often computer manufacturers and hardware manufacturers place the drivers on a CD or diskette, or
you can download the driver for Windows to find and use during its hardware detection. Below are
steps on how to install drivers for a new device and upgrade a device's driver for this setup.
Installing a new device

INSTALLING A NEW DEVICE

1. Open Windows Device Manager.
2. In the Device Manager, make sure the device you are attempting to install is not already listed from
past install attempts. If the device is found, highlight and remove it from Device Manager to prevent
any conflicts during the install.
3. Once Device Manager looks okay, reboot the computer.
4. As the computer is rebooting, an Install new hardware wizard should appear if Windows detects the
new hardware. Using this wizard, you should be able to point Windows to the folder containing your
drivers located on the CD, diskette, USB Flash drive, or the folder containing the files you
downloaded.
If Windows does not detect any new hardware, open the Control Panel and double-click the Add
hardware icon to run the hardware detection wizard. During the steps, you have the option to tell
Windows you have a disk containing the drivers for your new hardware device. Point Windows to the
folder containing the drivers for your device.
Note: The "Add hardware" icon is only available on Windows XP and prior versions of Windows.
Once drivers have been installed, reboot the computer.
Upgrading drivers for pre-existing device
1. Open Windows Device Manager.
2. In the Device Manager, locate the device you want to update.
3. Right-click the device and click Properties.
4. In the Properties window, click the Driver tab.
5. Click the Update Driver button.
6. In the Hardware Update Wizard, point Windows to the location of the updated driver files on your
hard drive.
Once drivers have been installed, reboot the computer.

Install through the .inf file

Finally, if the above recommendations do not work, the installation instructions for drivers and hardware
devices are always contained in an .inf file that is located with the driver files.
Locate the .inf file for your version of Windows. Right-click that file and choose the option for install.
Note Make sure you are installing the correct .inf file and not an .inf file for another device or for a
different version of Windows.
Once you have right-clicked and installed the driver, reboot the computer.
One of the above three recommendations should have installed or updated the drivers successfully onto
the computer. If you are still having difficulties getting the device to install, it is possible you are not
encountering a hardware issue and not an issue with the drivers. Refer to the troubleshooting steps for
your hardware device for additional help and information.

TROUBLESHOOTING!

Troubleshooting Hardware Installation Problems

Hardware: Counter/Timers (TIO), Digital I/O (DIO), GPIB, Image Acquisition (IMAQ), Legacy DAQ
Devices, Motion Control, Multifunction DAQ (MIO), PXI/CompactPCI, Modular Instruments,
CompactDAQ

Problem:
What are the top troubleshooting solutions for common hardware installation problems? (eg. DAQ,
GPIB, MXI, IMAQ, Motion...)

Solution:
If you experience problems with installing DAQ, GPIB, IMAQ or other National Instruments hardware
devices, there are three typical problems:

Software compatibility

Hardware compatibility

Damaged hardware.

Note: You must log in as an administrator or have administrator privileges in Windows to install any
National Instruments software and hardware.

Software Compatibility

1. Driver Installation

o Compatible Driver and Operating System Versions Verify that the device is
compatible with the driver version as well as the driver version compatible with the operating
system. For more information refer to the device manual or the links listed below.

o Installation Order The driver software should be installed first and the device second.
If the device was installed first, complete the uninstall/reinstall steps.

o Conflicting Drivers Make sure you do not have multiple versions of the driver software
installed on your computer. If you have multiple versions installed, remove all versions and
reinstall the latest version of the driver software by completing the uninstall/reinstall steps.
o Installation Wizard If the driver was not installed from the Installation Wizard it is
possible that the wrong installer file was chosen. Often there are multiple installer files for the
driver which are chosen fot the specific operating system. Using the installation wizard will
ensure that the driver for the correct operating system is chosen.

2. Windows Device Manager National Instruments software will not recognize hardware that is
not recognized by the operating system. Make sure that the device shows up in the Windows
Device Manager. To access this go to Start Control Panel System Hardware Device
Manager.

o Cannot find the driver If you find your device under Other Devices with a yellow
question mark on it, and the properties show error: Code 1: Device not configured correctly.
Cannot find the driver. There was a problem with the driver installation. Refer to the sections
above on Installation Order and Installation Wizard.

3. Refresh Measurement & Automation Explorer (MAX) Older versions of MAX do not refresh
automatically when a new device is installed. To refresh MAX, press <F5> or selectView Refresh.
The device should now appear under Devices and Interfaces. MAX 3.0 and later refreshes every
time you launch MAX.

Hardware Compatibility

1. Device Seated Properly Verify the device is seated properly into the slot/port. Power down
your system and make sure that the device is pushed into the slot all the way.

2. Power Requirements Verify the device has the 5 V power supplied from the motherboard. If
the power supply delivers an insufficient voltage (i.e., it is too low), then the PCI board will not
function. This may happen if you have a custom-built system with a separate power supply. Also,
some devices require a 3.3 V source as well. Check the device power requirements and verify that
all required power is supplied.

3. Try a Different Slot/Port Shut down your computer and install the device in a different
slot/port. This is done in case the slot is not damaged. If you do not have another slot/port available,
swap your device with another device that is working in the same type of slot/port.

More than One PCI Bridge Some PCs have more than 4 PCI slots, which means that
they probably have more than one PCI bridge on the PCI bus. The first PCI bridge connects the
CPU to the PCI bus. Additional PCI bridges connect one part of the PCI bus to the next.
Your PCI device may need to be installed in a PCI slot under the first PCI bridge. Try moving your
device to a PCI slot that is closer to the CPU. Try several different PCI slots, if necessary.

4. Confirm Device Works in Another Computer Install the device in another computer (if
available) and verify that it installs properly.

5. Confirm a Duplicate Device Works in Computer If you have a second device that works,
test it on the computer in question.
6. BIOS Related Issues The following solutions involve changing a setting in the BIOS or
upgrading the BIOS in your computer. Refer to your computer manufacturer for information on your
BIOS and on upgrades.

PCI Bus Mastering Most PCs have a BIOS setting called PCI Bus Mastering that
enables or disables the ability of a PCI device to become the master of the PCI bus during data
transfers. Some PCs have this setting disabled by default, but it should be enabled for your PCI-
GPIB device to work properly; otherwise, you may experience timeout errors (EABO) during writes
and reads.

To solve, go to the BIOS/Setup menu and enable the PCI Bus Mastering. Note: Some PCs do not
list this as an option in the BIOS/Setup menu. If this option is not available, update the BIOS on your
computer.

Resource Conflicts with Other Hardware

PCI resources are assigned in the BIOS. You may need to enter your BIOS/Setup to correct the
problem, but before you do that, try removing other devices from your system to see if this corrects
the problem.

If that does not help, check the BIOS/Setup for any settings that control the assignment of PCI
resources. Note: Some PCs do not list this as an option in the BIOS/Setup menu. If this option is
not available, update the BIOS on your computer.

(Older Windows Versions - NT 4.0 and 95) PNP BIOS Switch Problem PCs usually have a
setting in the BIOS that allows you to indicate whether you have a plug and play operating system
on your machine. Because Windows NT is not a plug and play OS, this setting should be set to No.

Check your BIOS for an option called PCI PNP Settings (or similar), which may be under an
Advanced Settings (or similar) category.

Hardware Damage

1. If the preceding steps did not result in the card being recognized or functioning properly, it is likely
that the card is damaged. You may contact National Instruments to discuss the options for
sending in the card for repairs.

Uninstall/Reinstall Steps

1. Uninstall all versions of the driver software.

Note: Special considerations may apply when uninstalling NI-DAQ. Refer to KnowledgeBase
3CB9N01V: Uninstalling NI-DAQ (also linked below).

2. Shut down your computer and remove your device.

3. Reboot your computer and install the driver software.

4. Shut down your computer and install the device.

5. Turn your computer back on.

6. Open MAX. Press <F5> or select View Refresh.

7. Expand Devices and Interfaces in MAX and verify your device appears.

8. If the problem continues, contact National Instruments through the Request Support page
(linked below).

MOUSE, TOUCHPAD, AND KEYBOARD PROBLEMS IN WINDOWS

Check HARDWARE!
Many mouse, touchpad, and keyboard problems are caused by hardware that isn't set up properly.
Here's some information about how to check your device, make sure cables are connected properly,
make sure the hardware has power, and check the settings.

1. Make sure cables are connected properly

Check that all cables are plugged in to the correct locations. This can include mouse and keyboard, PS2
and USB cables, and, in some cases, external USB touchpad cables.

Disconnect USB cables and wait for a short time for the device driver to be unloaded by
Windows, and then plug the device back in and the driver will reload.
Try using a different USB port on your PC. For example, move from a port on the front or side of
the PC to a port on the back of the PC.
If you use a USB hub between the device and the PC, try removing the USB hub and plugging
the device directly into a USB port on the PC.
If youre using a USB hub that uses an external power supply, make sure the power supply is
plugged into an electrical outlet and is working properly.
Make sure that the cables on your device aren't damaged in any way. Damaged cables can
cause the device to stop working properly.
2. Check for and replace worn batteries
Make sure old or worn batteries in your devices are replaced and functioning properly.
3. Disconnect and then reconnect wireless or Bluetooth receivers
If youre using a wireless or Bluetooth device, you might need to disconnect the device from your PC
and then reconnect it. Look on the bottom of the wireless device for a Reset button. Resetting the
device will disconnect and then reconnect the wireless connection. There might also be a Reset button
on the USB receiver for your device.

USB wireless devices. For USB wireless devices, this might be as simple as unplugging the
USB wireless receiver, waiting for about 10 seconds, and then plugging the USB wireless receiver
back into the USB port. The wireless connection should be reestablished. For additional help with
USB devices, see Install a USB device.
Bluetooth devices. For Bluetooth devices, the steps might be a little more detailed, and you'll
need to follow the steps listed in the documentation that came with the device. For additional help
with Bluetooth devices, see Add a Bluetooth enabled device to your computer and Add a
Bluetooth or other wireless or network device: frequently asked questions.
4. Test the device on another PC
If the device doesn't appear to work at all (for example, no lights appear on the device when its plugged
in, or the cursor doesn't move or doesn't appear on the screen), connect the device to another PC and
make sure the device works on that PC. If the device doesn't work on the other PC, you might need to
replace the hardware.

COMMON MOUSE SETUP ISSUES

When I move the mouse, nothing happens.

Try the following:
1. The USB connection may be loose. Try unplugging the mouse and plugging it back in.
2. Plug the mouse into a different USB port.
3. If your mouse is plugged into a USB hub or USB switch box, try removing it and plugging it
directly into the computer.
4. Unplug other USB devices that are not in use.
5. If you are using a wireless mouse: For tips about troubleshooting problems with the wireless
connection, see Troubleshooting wireless and Bluetooth issues.
6. Try the mouse on another computer to verify it is not defective.

MOUSE - Troubleshooting wireless and Bluetooth issues

1. Check and reset power

Check the batteries (rechargeable)

Try charging the device. It may take an hour or more to fully charge your device. See the documentation
that is included with the device.
Notes
The software may provide low battery warnings. However, the battery status may not be accurate
if a wireless connection problem exists. If you still receive warnings after replacing the batteries,
continue with the other solutions provided in this article.
Some rechargeable batteries may also need to be replaced. For information about the batteries,
see the documentation that is included with the device.
Check the batteries (non-rechargeable)
1. Make sure that you have installed the correct type of batteries in the device. For information
about the batteries, see the documentation that was included with the device.
2. Replace all the batteries with new batteries.
Note
The software may provide low battery warnings. However, the battery status may not be accurate if a
wireless connection problem exists.
If you still receive warnings after replacing the batteries, continue with the other solutions provided in
this article.
Reset the power to the device
1. If your device has a power switch, turn the device off.
2. If your device has removable batteries, remove the batteries and reinstall them. Make sure that
they are positioned correctly.
3. If your device has a power switch, turn the device on.

2. Check for software updates

Check for Windows updates

1. Click Start, click All Programs, and then click Windows Update.
2. Download and install any high-priority updates, and custom updates, especially those related to
hardware.

3. Check the USB connection between the computer and the transceiver
Unplug and re-plug the transceiver.
1. Unplug the wireless transceiver and then plug it in again.
2. If the wireless transceiver is plugged into a USB hub, unplug the hub and then plug it in again.
Connect the wireless transceiver to another port on the same computer.
If you have multiple USB ports, plug the wireless transceiver into a different USB port on the
same computer.
If the wireless transceiver is plugged into a USB hub:
1. Plug the hub into a different USB port on the same computer.
2. Make sure that you are using a powered hub that is appropriate for high-powered USB
devices.
3. Try plugging the wireless transceiver directly into a USB port on the computer.
4. Refresh the wireless connection
Connect all other Microsoft wireless devices.
1. Press the button on the wireless transceiver.
2. Press the Connect button on the underside of the device.

5. Optimize the signal

Check the placement of the wireless device.

The wireless transceiver and device must be situated correctly. Try the following solutions:
Place the wireless device closer to the wireless transceiver.
If you have a mouse and keyboard and they are both wireless, place them at an equal distance
from the transceiver.
Turn the transceiver on its side or upside down.
Some wireless and non-wireless objects can cause interference with your wireless device. To prevent
transceiver interference, avoid using your device near objects such as:
Wireless networking devices
Cordless and cellular telephones
Remote control toys
Microwave ovens
Cables running parallel to the wireless transceiver cables
Metallic surfaces in contact with the device
Other wireless pointing devices and transceivers

WHAT ARE SOME BASIC MONITOR TROUBLESHOOTING STEPS?

There are several basic steps to help determine if the monitor is causing a video problem you may be
experiencing. After each step, determine if the video problem is still apparent.

Reseat the monitor video cable:

1. Turn off the computer and the monitor.
2. Disconnect and then reconnect the monitor video cable from the back of the monitor.
3. Check for bent pins on the connectors.
4. Turn on the monitor, and then turn on the computer.

If that does not resolve the issue try the following steps:
1. Plug the monitor and computer power cables directly into a known good outlet.
2. Connect the monitor to a different computer.
3. Connect another monitor to the current computer.
4. Refer to the self-test section of the specific monitor.
Note: When running the self-test, follow the instructions listed for that monitor.
5. Test to see if a video issue is present in the BIOS. Refer to your computers manual on how to
enter the BIOS.
6. Test to see if a video issue is present in Windows Safe mode. You can enter Safe Mode by
pressing F8 on start up and selecting Safe Mode, then following the prompts.
7. Confirm that the brightness, contrast, and all other monitor controls are set for optimum
viewing.
8. Review all other applicable troubleshooting steps, issues, and frequently asked
questions before replacing a monitor.
Some causes of video problems may originate with the video card, video driver, or an incorrect
display setting. If these basic troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, refer to your model
monitor's Users Guide and product information for specific support documents, driver installations
and frequently asked questions.

How do I determine what is causing my display problem?

Your computer's display consists of two pieces of hardware: a video card (also known as a graphics
card or display adapter), which is installed inside your computer, and the video monitor, where you see
all the text and graphics your programs display. Windows uses drivers to work with these hardware
devices. The majority of display problems are caused by incorrect, corrupted, or missing video drivers.
Hardware failure or incorrect installation make up another set of problems, and external factors can also
cause video problems.

If you have just installed Windows, or have changed your video card and are experiencing problems,
the most likely cause is a missing or incorrect video driver. Most video cards will come with a disk that
contains drivers and other software. Before you install it, check the information that came with the video
card to be sure it supports your current version of Windows. If not, go to the manufacturer's website and
download the most current driver for your version of Windows.

DETERMINING PRINTER HARDWARE OR SOFTWARE ISSUE

When a printer is unable to print it's a good possibility

that either the printer is experiencing a
hardware or software related issue. Before testing the
software it is always recommended that the printer be
tested for hardware issues first.

Testing Hardware
1. Check that paper is loaded and that there are no paper jams.
2. Check the cable connections; both power and data cables going from printer and to your
computer.
3. Ensure that the printer power indication light is on.
4. Verify that the printer has no flashing lights or Red or Orange lights. It is common for printers to
have red, orange, or any other flashing lights when the printer is malfunctioning.
5. Run a self test on the printer. Running a self test should print a basic page of information
indicating that the printer itself is working. Your users manual should have the instructions for
printing a self test. If your printer does not print a self test it's a good possibility that there is a
defect or misconfiguration with your printer, and you should contact the printer manufacturer.

Testing Software
1. If possible, make sure your printer can print using the above hardware tests.
2. Install the printer software provided with your printer. If no software was provided with your
printer, see the printer drivers page for a listing of printer drivers. Drivers are required for your
printer to properly work with the operating system.
3. Click Start, Settings, Printers. Within the printers box ensure that your printer manufacturer and
model is listed.
4. Print a test page by clicking the icon with the right mouse button, then click the properties option
and click print test page. If the test page does not print download the latest drivers from your
printer manufacturer. A listing of printer drivers can be found on our printer drivers page.
5. If the page prints successfully, get back into the printers window, right-click the printer and ensure
that there is a check next to Set as default. Newer versions of Windows also show a check next to
the printer icon once it has been set as the default printer.
6. Once the printer is set as default, click Start, Run, and type notepad and press enter. In notepad,
type a test message and click File and Print. If the printer also prints successfully from this
program but you are still unable to print from the other program, it is likely that program has an
issue and not your printer.