Troubleshooting Common Hardware Issues

Hardware problems can be disruptive, but many of them can be resolved quickly with a few checks. Use this guide to troubleshoot common hardware issues with PCs, laptops, monitors, keyboards, mice, printers, and more.

1. PC or Laptop Not Powering On

Symptoms: No lights, no fan noise, screen stays black.

Steps to try:

• Ensure the power cable is securely connected at both ends

• Try a different socket or power adapter

• For laptops, remove the battery (if removable), wait 30 seconds, and plug it back in

• Hold the power button for 10–15 seconds to force a reset

If there’s still no sign of life, the power supply or internal components may need replacing.

2. Monitor Issues (No Display or Flickering)

Symptoms: Black screen, flickering display, "No Signal" message.

Steps to try:

• Check the monitor is powered on

• Ensure video cables (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA) are firmly connected

• Try a different cable or port

• Test with another monitor to rule out a device issue

• If using a docking station, try bypassing it

3. Keyboard or Mouse Not Working

Symptoms: No response from typing or clicks, device not detected.

Steps to try:

• Unplug and re-plug the device

• Try a different USB port

• Replace batteries if using wireless devices

• Restart the computer

• Try the keyboard or mouse on another PC to confirm it’s working

4. USB Devices Not Recognised

Symptoms: USB drive, camera, or printer doesn’t appear or function.

Steps to try:

• Plug the device into another USB port

• Restart the computer

• Check Device Manager for driver errors (yellow warning symbol)

• Update or reinstall drivers if necessary

• Try a different USB cable or power cycle the device

5. Printer Not Responding

Symptoms: Nothing prints, error messages, offline status.

Steps to try:

• Make sure it’s turned on and connected to the network or computer

• Restart both the printer and the PC

• Clear the print queue (Settings > Devices > Printers & Scanners > Your Printer > Open Queue)

• Reinstall or update the printer driver

• Try printing a test page from the printer’s control panel

6. Overheating or Fan Noise

Symptoms: Loud fans, hot casing, performance slowing down.

Steps to try:

• Ensure vents aren’t blocked — move the device to a cooler area

• Check for dust buildup (especially on desktops and laptops with side vents)

• Shut down and allow the device to cool before restarting

• If persistent, it may need internal cleaning or new thermal paste

When to Contact Fusion IT

If basic troubleshooting doesn’t solve the issue, don’t risk data loss or hardware damage — we can help you remotely or arrange an onsite visit.

Ticket Portal: https://support.fusionit.uk
Email: support@fusionit.uk
Phone: 01244 835080

Let us know the device type, the issue, and any steps you’ve tried — we’ll take it from there.

Disclaimer:
This article is intended as a general guide. While we aim to ensure accuracy, Fusion IT cannot be held responsible for any issues, data loss, or damage resulting from the use or misapplication of these instructions. If in doubt, please contact our support team before making changes.