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    How to check a laptop for problems ?

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by eogene, Dec 16, 2011.

  1. eogene

    eogene Newbie

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    I just purchased a L401x laptop of ebay :)eek: ) for $480. Is there some ways to check it 100% for any problems/errors it may have before i go ahead and reinstall windows?

    In laymans terms please!


    Thanks
     
    eogene, Dec 16, 2011
    #1
  2. StormJumper

    StormJumper Notebook Virtuoso

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    No not really but I would recommend to do a fresh install that will wipe or delete any previous installations on the HDD. And if there are problems with the HD during install it will tell you. But replacing a bad HD is cheaper then a dead motherboard on a laptop. And FYI unless they give some kinda warranty the stuff and items you buy on ebay is "AS IS" unless noted by the seller or ebay protection.
     
    StormJumper, Dec 16, 2011
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  3. olyteddy

    olyteddy Notebook Deity

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    Ultimate Boot CD. Google it. Lots of tests on it.
     
    olyteddy, Dec 17, 2011
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  4. qhn

    qhn Notebook User

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    Run some sort of chkdsk and memtest on it. Take a look at the venting area to see if any dirt/dust collection - if yes clean them up. There is no 100% on anything, even with new laptops

    cheers ...
     
    qhn, Dec 18, 2011
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  5. Nilfiry

    Nilfiry Notebook Enthusiast

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    I doubt you would be able to check 100% since things like the hard drive can fail on you at any time, but there are many diagnostic tools you can find out there just by searching google, for example. I suppose a good place to start is your own laptop's diagnostic tools, such as dxdiag. There should be some tools you can find during start up to.
     
    Nilfiry, Dec 18, 2011
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  6. eogene

    eogene Newbie

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    used dxdiag & chkdsk no problems so far, downloading ultimate boot cd thanks for your help guys!
     
    eogene, Dec 18, 2011
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  7. Nankuru

    Nankuru Notebook Evangelist

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    All the Dell laptops I've had have come with diagnostics discs (also on the hard drive until deleted) that will check most of the hardware.

    Alsop I've found that linux is more likeley to report problems so running a linux live CD may show something that Windows doesn't report
     
    Nankuru, Dec 18, 2011
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  8. olyteddy

    olyteddy Notebook Deity

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    Hence the UBCD suggestion.
     
    olyteddy, Dec 19, 2011
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