How Do I Actually Check This Stuff? (The Nitty-Gritty)
2. Different Tools for Different Devices
Alright, enough with the pep talk. Let’s get down to brass tacks. The exact steps for running hardware diagnostics vary depending on your device and operating system, but don’t worry, I’ll walk you through some common scenarios. Well look at Windows, Macs and even your trusty Android Phone.
For Windows PCs, you can often access built-in diagnostic tools during startup. Usually, you’ll need to press a specific key (like F2, F12, or Esc) as the computer boots up. The exact key depends on your manufacturer, so keep an eye out for a prompt on the screen. Once you’re in the diagnostic menu, you can run tests on your memory, hard drive, and other components. You could also look for “Windows Memory Diagnostic” by searching it up and running it. It’s pretty straightforward. Just schedule it to run and then restart your computer.
Mac users have it a bit easier. Apple Diagnostics (formerly Apple Hardware Test) is built right in. To access it, restart your Mac and hold down the D key during startup. This will launch the diagnostic tool, which will scan your system for hardware issues. It’s like magic, but with more transistors.
And for Android phones, things can be a bit more fragmented. Some manufacturers include built-in diagnostic tools, while others rely on third-party apps. A quick search on the Google Play Store for “hardware diagnostics” will turn up a plethora of options. Just be sure to choose a reputable app with good reviews. You don’t want to download something that’s going to do more harm than good. Think about that before you download random apps.