Used Computers Checklists

Faulty monitors which do not work after some time of warming up:  The malfunction is called as a “dry joint”.  When buying used computers it is wise to check if the monitor works even after 15- 20 minutes after switching on.

Faulty sector of the hard disks:  This can be found only if a full surface scan of the hard disk is run successfully.  A full scandisk normally takes few minutes to few hours as the time taken to scan depends on the size and capacity of the hard disk of the used computer.
Due to the time consumption the procedure of scanning is not taken seriously and the purchase ends up buying a hard disk with a faulty sector.

Fans of the central processing unit “freezing”:  Almost all the processor units have a heat sink and a fan for the purpose of keeping the central processing unit cool.  The fans in the course of time accumulates dirt and dust and makes the fans malfunction.  Due to the malfunction of the fan the CPU might get heated up and even stop functioning.  While making a purchase of a used computer it is better to make the fan run, in case any abnormal sounds can make sure of the abnormalities of the fan and the CPU either damaged or in the process of getting damaged.

Software related problems like freezing and crashing:  The operating system like windows on a computer can possibly get damaged over certain period of time of installation, which might be due to faulty RAM or cache too apart from the length of time it is in use.  There is always a fear of the computer getting frozen or even crashing owing to loss of data.  The best way to treat this problem is to reinstall the operating system with a fresh and clean one.

To avoid such complications, some of the fundamental tests, which can be performed on the used computer easily within seconds, are:

First and foremost thing to do is to disconnect the network if connected with the used computer before running the tests.

It is advisable to run a full surface scan on the hard disk, provided there is enough time to do it.  The floppy drive or CD drive/DVD drive can be checked for proper open and close action and also trying playing a CD or DVD.  Trying the options to change different settings, color, and resolutions can check the monitor.  Starting and shutting the computer a few times will help to find out the way it responds.  Running a text or a graphics file through it can check the printer.  To find if the hard disk is of the right size one needs to enter the CMOS and run an auto detect on the IDE.  To verify the RAM, cache, processor speed etc it is advised to press pause on the keyboard as and when it appears on the screen.  All the passwords need to be erased before purchase is advisable.