Troubleshooting Without Diagnostics

Solving Hardware Installation Problems

You may need to reconfigure the computer when you add or remove hardware, such as an additional drive or expansion card. If you install a plug and play device, Windows XP automatically recognize the device and configure the computer. If you install a non–plug and play device, you must reconfigure the computer after completing installation of the new hardware. In Windows XP, use the Add Hardware Wizard and follow the instructions that appear on the screen.

Solving Hardware Installation Problems

Problem

Cause

Solution

A new device is not recognized as part of the system.

Device is not seated or connected properly.

Ensure that the device is properly and securely connected and that pins in the connector are not bent down.

Cable(s) of new

Ensure that all cables are properly

external device are

and securely connected and that

loose or power cables

pins in the cable or connector are

are unplugged.

not bent down.

 

 

Power switch of new

Turn off the computer, turn on the

external device is not

external device, then turn on the

turned on.

computer to integrate the device

 

with the computer system.

When the system advised you of changes to the configuration, you did not accept them.

Reboot the computer and follow the instructions for accepting the changes.

A plug and play board may not automatically configure when added if the default configuration conflicts with other devices.

Use Windows XP Device Manager to deselect the automatic settings for the board and choose a basic configuration that does not cause a resource conflict. You can also use Computer Setup to reconfigure or disable devices to resolve the resource conflict.

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Troubleshooting Guide