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How to write data to CDs and DVDs

In some operating systems a warning will appear that there are files waiting to be burnt to disk. In others the data will be written directly to the disk.
Click on the warning balloon.
‘n Screen will open, showing the files to be written to disk
Insert a disk in the writer device and choose Burn to disk.

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Basic troubleshooting

When something in the computer does not work properly or doesn’t work at all, it is time for troubleshooting.

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Basic troubleshooting

Different ways to do troubleshooting:

Identify the problem and determine what is causing it. Decide on a solution and implement the solution.
Use system programs (tools) built into the operating system or available on the internet to find and resolve the problem.
Consult online and offline help files.
Consult a qualified computer technician.

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Basic troubleshooting

Identify the problem and determine what is causing it.

Decide on a solution and implement the solution.

This method is often used when a device such as the printer or keyboard stops working.

Example problem:

The printer suddenly stops working.

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Basic troubleshooting

Possible reasons	Possible solution
The USB cable is not plugged in properly .	Unplug the cable and plug in again. Do this on the printer side as well as the computer.
The power cable is not plugged in properly or the power is turned off.	Check if the power cable is plugged in properly. Check at the printer as well as the socket. Check if the power is turned on. Check at the printer as well as the socket
There is a paper jam in the printer or no paper at all.	Remove any paper jams. Check that there is sufficient paper in the correct paper tray.
The ink cartridge is empty	Replace the cartridge.
The driver program has become corrupt.	Reinstall the driver program.

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Basic troubleshooting

Use system programs (tools) built into the operating system or available on the internet to find and resolve the problem.

This method is used when the user doesn’t have sufficient knowledge of how to solve the problem.

Consult built-in or online help facilities.
Activate the troubleshoot facility in the control panel of the operating system

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Basic troubleshooting

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Basic troubleshooting�Example

The data size to store (backup) is to big

Backup only data files. Programmes can be reinstalled if necessary.
Backup only data that was recently changed. (Windows backup facility)
Use an external hard drive for backup purposes.
Compress (zip) the data.

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Basic troubleshooting�Examples

The computer doesn’t accept the CD/DVD

Ensure that the necessary driver programs for your DVD writer are installed.
Ensure that the disk is clean and not scratched.
Don’t leave disks in extreme heat or direct sunlight.
Try to write at another speed.
Ensure that the data fits on the disk.

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Basic troubleshooting�Example

The hard drive seems to be faulty

Keep in mind that hard drives, external as well as internal, has moving parts.
The surface of the plates is very delicate and if the read-write heads touches it, the disk can become damaged.
Don’t move the disk drive while it is working.

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Basic troubleshooting�Example

The hard drive seems to be faulty (continue)

If it is an external hard drive, check if it is connected properly into the USB slot. For internal drives, ensure that the power cable as well as the SATA cable is properly connected to the drive as well as the motherboard (SATA)
Check in the CMOS (Setup) if the hard drive is being recognised and configured properly.
Maybe you will have to consult a technician.

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To prevent problems �with storage devices

Ensure that the most recent driver programs are correctly installed.
Don’t move a hard disk drive while it is working.
Don’t expose any storage medium to direct sunlight, severe heat or electromagnetic fields.

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To prevent problems �with storage devices

Don’t remove an external hard drive or flash disk before the writing process has been finished. Use the eject-facility in the Windows system tray

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Activity

Briefly describe how you will troubleshoot and solve (if possible) the following problems:

The mouse doesn’t work.
I try to write data to a CD, but the computer does not recognise the disc.
There is no WiFi connection available and I am sure that the ADSL router is switched on and works properly, because my cell phone receives the signal.

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Activity

Your CAT teacher connected a printer to her laptop to print mark sheets but then experienced some problems with her printing.

The first problem was a message that appeared, that said that a printer driver could not be found.

Briefly explain what a driver is by referring to its function.
Suggest TWO places where your teacher can try and find this driver.

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Activity

The problem with the driver was successfully sorted out. However, your teacher found that the printer did not print any hard copies and no error message appeared when she tried to print.

Give TWO possible reasons for this.