Having a computer makes most work-related tasks easier. On top of that, there’s also the added benefit of playing video games, instant communication, and everything in-between to keep us entertained. For this reason, it’s essential to keep your computer in top shape.
Unfortunately, nothing lasts forever, especially for technology. For computers, the most critical component is the motherboard because it’s what connects everything in your computer. If it’s experiencing problems, then it’s only a matter of time until your computer is rendered out of commission.
You must spot the signs of a failing motherboard so that you can get it fixed as soon as possible. Read on below to learn more.
Common Signs of Failure
Regardless if it’s a hardware or software problem, they don’t manifest themselves before your eyes. However, most of them give signs that they’re going to happen. Some of these include:
Physical Damage
Physical damage refers to damaged hardware such as chipped circuits or burnt transistors. If these occur on your motherboard, it can cause a massive failure.
The worst-case scenario is that it will make it harder for you to fix, possibly requiring you to get a replacement for your motherboard. Most signs of physical damage to the motherboard typically happen when your computer is running, such as a burning smell.
The Blue Screen of Death
The infamous blue screen of death is more commonly known as something that no one wants to see. For the uninitiated, the blue screen of death is a failure in the system. In other words, the operating system can’t operate at a safe level anymore.
Whenever it appears, there’s something wrong with your computer. It’s not necessarily a sign of total system failure, but it’s well near close to it.
Freezes and Glitches
Freezes and glitches are some of the more annoying problems when it comes to a failing motherboard. One moment, your computer runs fine, and the next, your screen is frozen.
This usually happens when you’re loading up programs, and there’s an obvious hardware problem when it happens. However, it’s important to note that the motherboard causes not all freezes and glitches—it’s a matter of whether they’re frequently occurring or not. The more often freezes and glitches arise, the more likely a motherboard will fail.
Slowing Down
A computer should be fast. If it’s slow, then something’s definitely wrong with it. It can be either a program loading at a slower rate, your cursor moving across the screen slowly, or your keystrokes not easily recognized.
Regardless, sluggishness is a pretty easy sign to spot. It doesn’t necessarily mean that your hardware is at risk, but it also means that your computer is in bad shape.
Not Recognizing Your Hardware
It may seem nonsensical, but it does happen. Common examples include your mouse’s plugins not getting recognized or your flash drive not being readable.
While your hardware may be at fault, it wouldn’t be the case if you plug a different or new one into your computer. If this is the case, then it’s a clear sign that your motherboard is in jeopardy.
What Causes Them
Naturally, symptoms won’t occur without causes. Some of them include:
Overheating
Heat is not something that computers enjoy because they already generate a lot of it on their own. If heat isn’t vented or more is being added, then the motherboard will feel that.
The best way to prevent this is to store the computer in a room with good ventilation. The fans inside it are also essential, so be sure to maintain them.
Dust
Dust and heat are inseparable. It’s a guarantee that dust will accumulate because a computer attracts dust due to the electrical charge it generates. Additionally, dust is also a natural insulator, which brings heat and disruptions to the electrical currents on your motherboard.
Physical Impact
Computers are one of the farthest things from indestructible. Whenever a computer is hit, it poses a serious threat of damaging the internal components. Dropping a computer is a hazard, but that applies more to laptops.
Old Age
Computers are also not immortal. Every single part that makes up a computer is subject to wear and tear as time passes by. This is most evident in fan motors because their failure leads to overheating, leading to motherboard failure.
Conclusion
Motherboard failure is a grave threat that can hinder you from accomplishing tasks because it affects your entire computer. It can be repaired, but it’s still a pretty expensive and time-consuming process. That said, it’s essential to know when it’s still worth repairing or not—keep this guide in mind as you decide!
If your computer ever breaks down, you need to get it repaired immediately. Luckily, Finchum Fixes It provides top-quality services for computer repair in Indianapolis. We offer you skilled and knowledgeable computer specialists who will make sure that your computer is back up and running again as fast as we can. Contact us today to learn more!
