How to Troubleshoot a PC that Stops During Boot

A PC that starts, then fails to boot, probably suffers from an overheated CPU or a bad or underpowered power supply unit (PSU). But I'm going to suggest you check the power source first. Not because it's more likely the culprit (it isn't), but because it's easier to diagnose and fix. If you go to the trouble of replacing the PSU, and then discover that you only needed to plug it in somewhere else, you'll hate yourself in the morning.

So let's get the easy stuff out of the way. Try another outlet on the surge protector. Try another outlet on the wall. Try another surge protector. If the problem is with a desktop PC, try another power cord. If it's with a laptop, remove the battery and try with only the AC adapter.

None of these helped? Okay, I didn't really think they would, but they were worth trying. Now let's get on to the more likely issues:

A serious ventilation problem could cause your CPU to overheat and shutdown before the boot is complete. Make sure the PC's fans are all turning properly. This is easy to do on a desktop: Just open the PC and watch the insides as it boots. It's more difficult on a laptop, but if you listen attentively you should hear the fan.

You should also check the vents and air passageways to make sure they're not blocked or clogged with dust. If they are, use a can of compressed air to clean them out.

If the failure happens while Windows is booting, the operating system may be the problem. Try booting into Safe Mode: Boot the PC and press F8 just before the Windows log-on appears (it may take a few attempts to get the timing right). At the Boot Menu (assuming you get that far), select Safe Mode. If you can successfully boot into Safe Mode, it's a software problem.

If you can't even get into Safe Mode, try booting from something other than the hard drive. You likely have a bootable CD or DVD lying around (a Windows installation disc, for instance).

If all else fails, try replacing the power supply unit. Desktop PSUs are inexpensive. They're reasonably easy to replace, although if you're not comfortable working inside a PC, go to a professional.

For a laptop, try replacing the AC adapter. You'll need one specific for your model.

How to Fix Common Windows 7 and/or Vista Problems

Have you ever wished for a magic wand that could make annoying Windows problems disappear? Like, say, a missing Recycle Bin icon, or those pesky Runtime Error messages in Internet Explorer?

FixWin is that magic wand. This ingenious free utility requires just over 500K of space, runs without installation, and quickly fixes 50 different Windows glitches--many of which would normally require a trip to the Registry.

These are divided among five categories, including Windows Explorer, Internet & Connectivity, and System Tools.

Each problem is presented with a brief but thorough description. Here's an example: "CD drive or DVD drive is missing or is not recognized by Windows or other programs." To fix a problem, just click the corresponding Fix button.

It really is that simple. And before you get started, FixWin can scan your machine for--and fix--corrupted system files. It also allows you to create a System Restore point before making any changes, a smart addition.

Certainly FixWin won't solve all your Windows issues, but if it can correct just one, it's well worth the download. Download here.

PC Troubleshooting: The Correct Attitude

It really happens. You're rushing to a deadline or having a blast on your favorite game, then the system crashes. It's amazing how different people react when their computers bog down or doesn't respond. Some are indifferent, but most are bordering to violence. ^^

Here's a few tips to save yourself and your sanity...

1: Accept it. This stuff happens to everybody. Sometimes there's no rhyme or reason to it, and most of the time it's through no fault of your own. Windows is an unpredictable, unreliable beast (yes, even Windows 7). A single problem driver or incompatible program can wreak havoc on an otherwise healthy system. When you accept that problems can and will happen, they'll be less of a surprise--and less likely to ruin your day.

2: Relax. System won't boot? Printer won't print? iPhone won't sync? Take a deep breath. In fact, take several. Then walk away from the offending machine, device, or whatever, and do something else for 5-10 minutes. I know full well how annoying and frustrating these glitches can be. That's why it's crucial to get some distance, so you can come back calm and clear-headed. Which ties directly to rule #3:

3: Don't overreact. I can't tell you how many times I've made things worse by failing to heed rule #2. Instead, I start flinging mouse-clicks at the troubleshooting dartboard. Uninstall a driver here, update a BIOS there, run the free virus-removal utility that promises to fix everything--it all snowballs. That's how one problem evolves into several, until eventually you think: "Ah, screw it, I'll just buy a new PC." (Tell me you haven't had that exact reaction at some point.) By all means, troubleshoot the problem, but do so slowly and methodically.

Six Helpful Windows 7 Keyboard Shortcuts

Win + Home: Minimize all windows except the one that's currently active. Hit it again to restore the windows.

Win + Space: Makes all windows transparent so you can see through to the desktop.

Win + Up Arrow: Maximizes the active window.

Win + Left/Right Arrow: Docks the active window to the left or ride side of the screen.

Win + (+/-): Enables the magnifier and zooms in/out.

Win + P: Opens Windows' presentation settings so you can quickly adjust display settings to include a second monitor or a projector.

GodMode in Windows 7

Five easy steps to activate this mode inside Windows 7:

Step 1: Right click.

Step 2: Click create folder.

Step 3: Name your sparkly, new folder this, "GodMode.{ED7BA470-8E54-465E-825C-99712043E01C}" and press enter.

Step 4: Blink as the folder changes form to look like the control panel.

Step 5: Open the folder and bask in all your godly, control panel-y power.

Note: This mode is a hit or miss on Windows Vista. Try at your own risk. ^^