Question: Check Your Computer's Hardware Configuration If you are experiencing a problem with a hardware component on your computer, you can check the computer's hardware configuration to determine the manufacturer's name and model number for the hardware in question.With this information, you then can search for ways to correct the problem. Alternatively, if you reinstall the operating system on the computer, you may check the computer's hardware configuration to make sure the operating system is recognizing correctly all hardware connected to the computer. The following steps guide you through the process of checking a computer's hardware configuration.
a. If you are using a Mac, display the Apple menu and then select the option to display information about the computer. If you are running Windows, display the Control Panel.
b. Navigate to the area that displays information about the hardware and devices currently connected to the computer. (Hint: In Windows, display the Device Manager. On a Mac, display the System Report.)
c. Tap or click the categories of hardware devices to see details related to those types of devices.
d. If you are familiar with the hardware devices on the computer, verify that the operating system is recognizing these devices correctly.
e. If you notice a problem with the operating system detecting any of these devices, you might need to run the installation software and/or install the drivers for the hardware device so that the operating system can communicate with the device. If necessary, contact the computer manufacturer's technical support for assistance.
Exercises: 1. List at least three hardware devices listed in the System Report or in the Device Manager.
2. In addition to the reasons mentioned above, what are some other reasons why you might want to check the hardware configuration on a computer?
3. What steps can you take if one or more hardware devices are not identified by your computer?