Solving Problems 41

General hardware problems

If your computer exhibits one or more of the following symptoms, a device
conflict may exist:
• Your computer locks up, particularly while using a specific device.
• A recently added device does not work.
• A sound card emits noise or demonstrates other problems.
• Unintelligible characters print from the printer.
• The mouse pointer does not move or "stutters" when it moves.
• Messages appear stating that the computer is not operating at
maximum performance.
• Errors occur and programs crash for no apparent reason.
• Nothing displays on the monitor.
Keyboard Problems
REMOVE ANY RECENTLY ADDED HARDWARE TO SEE IF IT RESOLVES
THE CONFLICT —If removing the hardware resolves the conflict, see the
hardware documentation for configuration and troubleshooting instructions. If
the problem persists, contact the hardware manufacturer for technical assistance.
CHECK YOUR OPERATING SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION FOR ADDITIONAL
TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION
CHECK FOR INTERRUPT REQUEST CONFLICTS —See page58.
RESTART THE COMPUTER —
• If the mouse is functioning, shut down the computer (see page 27) through
the Start menu. After the computer shuts down, press the power button to
restart the computer.
• If the computer does not respond to a keystroke or the mouse, press the power
button for at least 8 to 10 seconds until the computer turns off. Press the
power button again to restart the computer.