different symptoms of motherboard

Let’s know about it’s parts and features before going to Motherboard Repairing 1.CPU – It is also called the processor, ... thumbnail 1 summary

August 03, 2017

Let’s know about it’s parts and features before going to Motherboard Repairing

1.CPU –

It is also called the processor, the CPU works as the computer’s brain. It is responsible for fetching, decoding, and executing program instructions as well as performing mathematical and logical calculations.The processor chip is identified by the processor type and the manufacturer. This information is usually inscribed on the chip itself.If the processor chip is not on the motherboard, you can identify the processor socket as socket 1 to Socket 8, LGA 775 among others. This can help you identify the processor that fits in the socket.

2.RAM –

Random Access Memory, or RAM, are the computer chips that temporarily store dynamic data to enhance computer performance while it is on. Here all the active programs and data are loaded so that any time the processor requires them, it doesn’t have to fetch them from the hard disk. Random access memory loses its contents once power is turned off. Though hard disks and flash memory does not require a power source to retain data. When a computer shuts down properly, all data located in RAM is returned back to permanent storage on the hard drive or flash drive. At the next boot-up, RAM begins to fill with programs automatically loaded at startup, a process called booting. Later on, the user opens other files and programs that are still loaded in the memory.

3.BIOS ( Basic Input/ Output System )

BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System. BIOS is a “read only” memory, a low-level software that controls the system hardware and acts as an interface between the operating system and the hardware. It is more known as just drivers. BIOS is considered as the link between the computer hardware and software in a system. Motherboards include a small block of Read Only Memory (ROM) which is separate from the main system memory used for loading and running software. The system BIOS is a ROM chip on the motherboard used during the startup routine (boot process) to check out the system and prepare to run the hardware. The BIOS is stored on a ROM chip because ROM retains information even when no power is being supplied to the computer.

4. CMOS Memory –

Motherboards also include a small separate block of memory made from CMOS RAM chips which are charged by a battery (known as a CMOS battery) even when the PC’s power is off. This prevents reconfiguration when the PC is powered on.

5. Cache Memory –

Cache memory is a small block of high-speed memory (RAM) that enhances PC performance by pre-loading information from the (relatively slow) main memory and passing it to the processor on demand. Most CPUs have an internal cache memory (built into the processor). This can be supplemented by external cache memory fitted on the motherboard. This is the Level 2 or secondary cache.

6. Expansion Bus –

An expansion bus is an input/output pathway from the CPU to peripheral devices made up of a series of slots on the motherboard. Expansion boards (cards) plug into the bus. PCI is the most common expansion bus in a PC and other hardware platforms. Buses carry signals such as data, memory addresses, power and control signals from component to component.

7. Chipsets –

Chipset is a group of small circuits that coordinate the flow of data to and from a PC’s key components. These key components include the CPU itself, the main memory, the secondary cache, and any devices situated on the buses. A chipset also controls data flow to and from hard disks and other devices connected to the IDE channels.

8.CPU Clock –

The CPU clock synchronizes the operation of all parts of the PC and provides the basic timing signal for the CPU. A 200 MHz CPU receives 200 million pulses per second from the clock. A 2 GHz CPU gets two billion pulses per second. Similarly, in any communications device, a clock may be used to synchronize the data pulses between sender and receiver. A “real-time clock,” also called the “system clock,” keeps track of the time of day and makes this data available to the software. A “time-sharing clock” interrupts the CPU at regular intervals and allows the operating system to divide its time between active users and/or applications.

9. Switches and Jumpers –

Switches are small electronic switches found on the circuit board that can be turned on or off just like a normal switch. Jumper pins are small protruding pins on the motherboard. A jumper cap or bridge is used to connect or short a pair of jumper pins. When the bridge is connected to any two pins, via a shorting link, it completes the circuit and a certain configuration has been achieved.

Signs Of A Faulty Motherboard :

Find out symptoms when the motherboard is faulty so that you can go for Motherboard Repairing

1.Computer does not boot. instead, you get a beep code.

2.Random computer crashes causing General Protection Fault error messages, Illegal Operations, Fatal Exceptions, etc.

3.Computer randomly reboots.

4.Motherboard doesn’t recognize/show peripherals plugged in

5.Peripherals will stop working for a few seconds or more

6.Slow boot ups could indicate that your motherboard is going bad, though it could be other components as well.

One of the most important components of a computer is the motherboard. It holds all the components inside the computer i.e. it is what connects everything. The CPU is the brain of the computer while the nerve center connecting all the pieces and components together is the motherboard. Any problem with the motherboard will definitely create problems with all the other components of the computer thus affecting its performance. It is important to understand some of the motherboard failure symptoms and address them as soon as possible so as to avoid further problems.

Reasons for Motherboard Failure

Electricity and voltage spikes - a voltage regulator outlet may be necessary if there are a lot of voltage spikes in your area.
Age
Pressure or force
Smoke, dust
Heating issues or fan failure -it is advisable to clean your fans at least once a year

Symptoms of Motherboard Failure

Blue screen

A computer blue screen can happen for a lot of different reasons. However, a hardware issue is quite a common reason for a blue screen. If you get a blue screen, you can try to troubleshoot it by searching the error code in Google or on Microsoft's site. If you are unable to fix the blue screen, it could be an indication that the problem is on your motherboard.

Random restarts/shut down

This is one of the most common signs of a failing motherboard. However, it is advisable to carefully check so as to rule out any possibility of a virus or an error on the hard disk. If the problem still occurs after you have checked the hard disk for viruses and errors, it might be an indication of a failing motherboard.

Burning Smell

If there is any burning smell from your motherboard, shut down the PC right away. A burning smell may result from overheating or an incompatible component. Note that, every motherboard has its own specifications (i.e. every motherboard has its own specific processor, RAM, video card or hard disk among other components). If an incompatible component is used, it may cause serious problems/damage to the motherboard.

Bloated capacitators

This is also another obvious symptom of a failing motherboard and is often a result of overheating the motherboard. This is however common with Pentium 4 motherboards which are prone to overheating. If your capacitator looks like it is ready to blow, it means it is already bloated. You can replace your capacitator if you do not want to change the whole motherboard.