Hint: If "computerese" is an unfamiliar language to you,
click on hyperlinked terms for a glossary definition.

1.  POWER - Make sure that all POWER CABLES are plugged in securely to your computer and all other devices, the a/c outlet, and any power strips. If using a power strip, make sure the power indicator light is on. Check the POWER BUTTONS on your computer and all other devices such as the Monitor, Printer, Scanner, etc. Make sure you have a green power indicator light on all devices. Power on all external devices (i.e., printers, scanners and zip drives) prior to booting your computer.

 2.  DISK ERROR OR NON-SYSTEM DISK - If there is a disk in the A:Drive, remove it and press any key. Your system will not start with a disk in Drive A. If there is no disk in the drive and your computer is making clunking or grinding noises, call in a work order.

 3.  NETWORK - For hard-wired connections, make sure the network patch cable is securely connected to the back of the computer and the wall plug. Make sure you have a Green Link Light and a flashing amber or green activity light on your Network Card. (This is where your network patch cable is connected to the back of your computer). Ensure that you are logged on properly to the network using the correct username and password.

 4.  PERIPHERALS - Check that all Input/Output INTERFACE CABLES are securely plugged into the back of the computer. Such as: Keyboard, Mouse, Monitor, Speakers, Printer, Scanner, Zip Drive, Averkey, SmartBoard, digital projector, AlphaSmart, or digital camera.

 5.  REBOOT the computer and log in again.

 6.  MONITOR - Check the brightness/contrast controls. Kids play with these. Wiggle your mouse or press a key on the keyboard to make sure your computer is not in power saving or sleep mode.

 7.  SPEAKERS - Check volume controls and connections to the speakers and back of the computer. Make sure your speakers are plugged into the OUTPUT port.

 8.  PRINTER - Turn the power off and back on again. Check the ink cartridges and paper supply. Try printing again by using the File, Print menu commands, checking to see if you have selected the correct printer before you press PRINT.

If you are using a Network printer, be sure you are logged in or it will not be able to receive your print job. Check the printer control panel and see if your printer is OFFLINE. If so, right click and see on the popup utility window if there is a check mark next to User Printer Offline. If so, remove the check mark by clicking on it (Make sure youa re logged in first). Check your local print queue. If there are print jobs in the queue, save your document, delete the queued print jobs, and try printing again.

 9.  MOUSE - Make sure the mouse ball is inside the mouse, rolling freely and free of debris. Make sure the mouse is plugged into the computer completely. DO NOT UNPLUG OR PLUG IN THE MOUSE WHILE THE COMPUTER IS ON.

10.  KEYBOARD - Make sure the keyboard is plugged into the computer completely. Make sure that nothing is leaning on the keyboard and that there are no stuck keys. DO NOT UNPLUG OR PLUG THE KEYBOARD WHILE THE COMPUTER IS ON.