Introduction

 This section of the site is dedicated to helping students troubleshoot their own computers. It is our hope that students learn how to fix their computers without our help, making them more independent. If, after this guide, you are unable to solve your problem, you are more than welcome to come in to have your computer looked at in any of our support locations. You may also try our call-center at (314)-977-4000.

Diagnosis

The first step in solving your computer trouble is to diagnose the problem. From there, you can solve it. Let's start with the most common problem, trouble connecting to the internet.(Click for further instruction)

Windows Symptoms - Computer is slow, Pop-ups, Weird Messages, Fake Warnings, Fake Programs
 These symtoms could mean anything from too many programs running to a full-blown virus. Click here for further diagnosis if these symptoms apply to you.

Windows Symptoms - Computer Crashes to Blue Screen, Computer Freezes Before Logon Screen, Weird Pixelation Problems
 These symtoms mean that the hardware is broken or the software is corrupted. Most of the time this can be remedied. Click this link for further diagnosis and solutions.

Mac Symptoms - Computer is slow, Weird Pixelation Problems, Non-responsive Programs
 This can most likely be solved by a program called disk utilities. The complete walkthrough is provided here.

Mac Symptoms - Computer will not go past the apple symbol screen
 This is remedied sometimes with disk repair, but may require more professional help. Click here for a walkthrough.

Windows and Mac Symptoms - Power button doesn't turn on the computer/Screen is black
 This needs to be handled by a professional usually. This is probably due to hardware failure. In this case, you may have to contact your manufacturer to have it fixed. If you have a warranty, the fix might be free, but otherwise it may cost you. The Tech-Interns can help you recover your files from a broken computer as long as it isn't the hard drive that's damaged. For more support or advice, you can call the Des Peres Main Office phone at: (314)-977-2522. You can also come in for a closer inspection.

How To's

Ad-Aware
Spybot
Symantec
Windows Reinstall/Nuke and Pave
Windows Disk Check
Mac Disk Check
Mac Reinstall/Nuke and Pave
Mac Disk Permissions
Mac Reset P-ram