Difference in Testing an Appliance vs a Computer (failed to power up)

[XFatalX]

So I had a discussion with someone who works on Appliances for a living about a non post pc. I was told testing failed units (Appliances) is the exact same as testing a Failed pc. I'm doubting other then test power like 12v, 5v is the same between the two. They both use motherboards and some appliances use a cpu. But id like to know what are the major differences is testing the two and what are the same. I understand this not many may know the difference but just had to give it a shot because im doubting testing the two are exactly the same... 

[cr8tor]

Well here is my opinion.

 

I agree with your friend.

Both have a power source that plugs into a power supply which converts power from wall power to something else.

Appliances essentially have computer components in them that run on firmware as opposed to software, but is functionally the same concept.

Appliances accept inputs via buttons and dials, where a computer used a keyboard and mouse to accept inputs, but still, we as humans punch keys and results happen.

 

When something is acting up, you try to reduce the problem down to a single source and then replace that source.

Dryer wont dry, narrow it down and replace the part.

Microwave wont turn on? Check power cord, wall power source, then internals, same steps as a pc.

Both can be a confusing hunk of metal to work on, both can have randomly occurring issues.

You would troubleshoot them in the same way essentially, modifying your steps according to the situation at hand.

 

And to take this further.

 

You would troubleshoot your car the same way. All have similar components in some way. They accept inputs from humans and do something accordingly.

 

Troubleshooting is troubleshooting.

Figure out how to make the problem reoccur so you can narrow the issue down to a single source of malfunction, then replace.

That's what troubleshooting is, narrowing down an issue until all that's left is what's broken.

Sometimes you can narrow it down to a single part and replace a couple to ensure resolution.

Sometimes you figure out half way through that its all dead and its best to go buy a new one.

 

Troubleshooting is troubleshooting. Its all the same.

 

99% of the time its more about a persons willingness to dive in and learn something, to be open to all the possibilities and to systematically work your way through an issue.

Whether its life or a pc, when things are not going as you expect, narrow down the root cause and do something about it.

Edited October 25, 2020 by cr8tor
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