Hi:

A major aggravation in dealing with computer problems is the failure to
maintain SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & SUPPORTING SOFTWARE.

Computer technicians and owners should keep system documentation, drivers
and other software for their computers in a re-sealable envelope, bag or
box. Keep an inventory of system components and a log of all changes and
events.

The inventory should include the following:

--- SYSTEM UNIT ---
System  Make and Model
Motherboard Make and Model
CPU / Type / Speed
BIOS Manufacturer / Version
CMOS entry hotkey
CMOS Settings
RAM Type / Speed / Amount
Memory Sockets (# and types)
Expansion Slots (# and types)
Onboard Ports and Connectors

 ---DRIVES ---
Hard drive Make / Model / Mode
Hard Drive Parameters C/H/S
Drive Interface
Capacity
Floppy A
Floppy B
CD-ROM Make / Model / Interface / Driver name

--- EXPANSION ADAPTOR CARDS  ---
(Make / Model / Slot / Settings / Drivers)
Video Card
Sound Card
Modem
Network Card

--- OTHER ---
IRQ/DMA/IO-port/memory information
OS version and patches
Backups of essential system settings
License numbers

The collection of this information is not just for the overly retentive or
sophisticated power user; it's for every user who does not want to go
"nuts" trying to get a system back online.

Assemble system documentation and drivers, for yourself and your clients,
and keep these resources accessible, in a retrieveable place. Indeed, you
should visit all the makers' web sites and download PDF/DOC copies of most
manuals, and the appropriate drivers, then burn this onto a CDROM disc for
instant reference. Avoid those makers who do not render basic (necessary)
Internet support.

Try not to learn the hard way....

Regards,

John Chin

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