Hardware and software setup

Online computer diagnostics for the game. PC Diagnostics and Troubleshooting (Best Programs)

Whatever role is assigned to your computer, it should work stably and without failures. Whether it is a gaming computer, a laptop for office tasks, or just a means of communication, in any case, symptoms such as "freezing", "brakes", " blue screen Windows death"and other unpleasant things, should not bother the user. It is not uncommon for a user to have the same characteristic "iron" problem for years, for example, in the middle of work, a "hot" reboot suddenly occurs. It is rather difficult to find out its cause - this may be a problem with the mother boards, video cards, RAM, etc. One cannot completely exclude the error of the operating system, which, by the way, many are accustomed to write off all the flaws in the PC.As for failures as a result of a software conflict, this assumption can only be checked by reinstalling system, as well as using fresh drivers (recall that the newest drivers can always be found in the file archive).If after that the computer problems do not go away, you need to check all the components step by step.The programs that will help you do this will be discussed in today's review.

7Byte Hot CPU Tester 4.4.1 - CPU testing

Developer: 7Byte Computers
Distribution size: 1.7 MB
Spreading: shareware The processor is the heart of the computer. With careful handling of this part, there should not be any problems with it. Errors can appear only in non-standard situations, for example, when the cooler is stopped or when trying to force the processor to work in non-standard mode, i.e. during acceleration. In the second case, errors are not excluded when performing arithmetic calculations, for example, when the computer will give errors when trying to extract files from archives. But even when trying to overclock, you need to "try hard" to disable the processor. Motherboard manufacturers usually use various technologies that provide "intelligent" overclocking that is safe for the operation of the device. In addition, many models have protection against failures that occur in critical modes. At the same time, the status of the processor and RAM is checked at the hardware level, which eliminates the possibility of failure of components. And yet, from time to time, it becomes necessary to check the status of the processor. The processor check utility may be needed if you want to check the characteristics and condition of a non-new chip, for example, when assembling a computer from old components. 7Byte Hot CPU Tester works with multi-core and multi-processor systems. Using the program, you can test all processors or only some.

During testing, the program checks most of the functions of the processor: it tests the use of the cache of the first and second levels, checks the state of the processor during complex calculations (determining the number "Pi", Fourier transform), when using sets of multimedia instructions SSE, SSE2, SSE3, MMX and 3DNow !, system bus and memory bus, etc.

It is assumed that during the verification process, the processor is subjected to maximum load. If all the tests are passed successfully, during many hours of testing the computer does not freeze, does not turn off, does not reboot, does not give a blue screen, we can assume that the device is functioning normally. When the program runs various tests, the 7Byte Hot CPU Tester window displays a graph for monitoring the load of the processor (processors). The testing itself takes a lot of time and can take several hours. The default program settings include testing the current configuration for six hours. If necessary, you can reduce this time. In the process of checking the equipment, the hardware is so loaded that there can be no talk of any work on the PC at this moment. However, if you wish, you can change the test execution priority to a lower one. In addition, for each of the testing methods, you can choose your task execution priority: for example, you can set a low priority for memory testing, and, on the contrary, high priority for testing a chipset.

RivaTuner 2.24 - video card monitoring

Developer: Alex Unwinder
Distribution size: 2.6 MB
Spreading: free of charge One of the most convenient utilities for checking and monitoring the performance of video cards is RivaTuner. Usually, it is used by overclockers, but it may well be useful for more "peaceful purposes", for example, to adjust the image quality.

This small utility opens up great opportunities for setting up and testing a video adapter. Firstly, the program allows you to control the frequencies of the video memory and the core. Secondly, RivaTuner can control the speed of coolers, while it is possible to use separate profiles of cooling systems. The program allows you to set video modes - image resolution, screen refresh rate, etc. The utility allows you to control color reproduction through low-level settings. In addition, this utility allows you to track the temperature of the core in real time, builds a graph of temperature changes. Also, the program automatically generates a report on the state of the hardware. In the diagnostic report, the utility collects all information regarding the parameters of the video card - from the model name, manufacturer, amount and type of memory used to the error of the thermal diode and the version of the graphics core.

Video Memory stress Test 1.7 - bitwise test of video memory

Developer: Mikhail Cherkes
Distribution size: 650 kb
Spreading: free If the previous utility is used mainly for monitoring, then a small Video program Memory stress Test is designed to test the "stress resistance" of a video card. Its goal is to create a boundary mode of operation of the video adapter, in which the video memory of the tested model would be completely occupied.

The utility tests the video memory bit by bit, similar to how RAM tests are performed. Video memory is accessed using DirectX, so the test is not tied to specific hardware and can be used on any DirectX-compatible video card. During testing, launched third party processes may use the resources of the video card and interfere with the test. Therefore, the program provides for the use of a bootable CD to test video memory without Windows boot. Floppy version boot image along with the installation script can be downloaded. In addition to testing video memory using DirectX, the program allows you to test video memory using NVIDIA's CUDA interface.

RightMark Audio Analyzer 6.2.3 - analysis of sound card performance

Developer: iXBT.com/Digit-Life
Distribution size: 1.7 MB
Spreading: Free of charge Identification of work-related problems sound card often fraught with difficulties. In most cases, sound problems do not affect the operation of the computer as a whole, rarely lead to BSOD screen and others characteristic features, which are usually symptoms of problems computer hardware. Checking the operation of this component "by eye" (more precisely, "by ear") is a method so subjective that it can hardly be considered reliable. Not everyone can hear the difference in the sampling rate between 44 and 96 kHz, let alone other sound characteristics. Therefore, to check the operating modes of the sound card and the sound quality, you should trust software testing. To examine the quality of a sound card, you can use the RightMark Audio Analyzer utility. This program allows you to evaluate frequency characteristics sound card, testing the analog and digital paths. RightMark Audio Analyzer can test in several modes. First, you can check the equipment in the recording mode, when a test signal (for example, from an external generator) is applied to the input of the sound card being tested. Another way to check is the opposite of the first - RightMark Audio Analyzer sends a test signal, which is recorded on the second sound card, the characteristics of which are known in advance and high enough to neglect the distortions it introduces into the signal. After that, the recorded version is analyzed by the program, and the differences in the waveform caused by distortion are determined. And, finally, the last option for testing a sound card is a universal one that does not require any additional equipment.

Many similar utilities for testing sound cards are limited only to the last method of testing. However, in fact, this measurement method cannot be considered accurate, since the recorded signal distortions in this case will not be due to total distortions at the input and output of the sound card. Necessary condition to check the status of the equipment - the presence of a duplex mode of operation of the tested sound card. Similarly, the digital inputs and outputs on the sound card are checked. With RightMark Audio Analyzer, you can also check any audio equipment in asynchronous mode: record the signal from the analog or digital output of a DVD/CD/MP3 player as a WAV file, then burn the file to a disc or portable player and re-record it from the output devices. Further, with the help of the program, you can draw a conclusion about the quality of the audio path - see the graphs, as well as familiarize yourself with the report generated by the program. In the next article in this series, we will talk about memory testing, optical drive, hard drive, monitor and network interface.

There are times when you need to know exact model video card or any other component. Not all necessary information can be found in the device manager or on the hardware itself. In this case, come to the rescue special programs, which help not only to determine the model of components, but also to get a lot of additional useful information. In this article, we will consider several representatives of such software.

Both advanced users and beginners can use this program. It helps not only to get information about the state of the system and hardware, but also allows you to do some tuning and check the system with various tests.

Everest is distributed absolutely free of charge, does not take up much space on your hard drive, has a simple and clear interface. Receive general information can be done right in one window, but more detailed data is in special sections and tabs.

AIDA32

This representative is one of the oldest and is considered the progenitor of Everest and AIDA64. The program has not been supported by developers for a long time, and updates are not released, but this does not prevent it from performing all its functions properly. With this utility, you can instantly get basic information about the state of your PC and its components.

More detailed information is in separate windows, which are conveniently sorted and have their own icons. You don’t have to pay anything for the program, and there is also a Russian language, which is good news.

AIDA64

To help in diagnosing components and conducting performance tests, this popular program. It combines the best of Everest and AIDA32, improves and adds a few extra features that are not available in most other similar software.

Of course, you will have to pay a little for such a set of functions, but this will only need to be done once, there are no subscriptions for a year or a month. If you can’t decide on a purchase, then a free one is available on the official website trial version with a period of one month. For such a period of use, the user will definitely be able to draw a conclusion about the usefulness of the software.

HWMonitor

This utility does not have such a large set of functions as the previous representatives, but it has something unique in it. Its main task is not to show the user all the detailed information about his components, but to allow him to monitor the state and temperatures of the iron.

Display voltage, load and heat certain element. Everything is divided into segments to make it easier to navigate. The program can be downloaded absolutely free from the official website, but there is no Russian version, but even without it, everything is intuitive.

Speccy

Perhaps one of the most extensive programs presented in this article, in terms of its functionality. It combines a lot of diverse information and ergonomic placement of all elements. Separately, I would like to touch on the function of creating a system snapshot. Other software also has the ability to save test or monitoring results, but most often it is only in the TXT format.

It’s simply not possible to list all the features of Speccy, there are really a lot of them, it’s easier to download the program and view each tab yourself, we assure you that learning more and more new things about your system is a very interesting thing.

CPU-Z

CPU-Z is a narrowly focused software that is focused only on providing the user with data about the processor and its condition, conducting various tests with it and showing information about RAM. However, if you want to get just such information, then additional functions simply won't be needed.

The developers of the program are the company CPUID, whose representatives will be described in this article. CPU-Z is available for free and does not require a lot of resources and hard disk space.

GPU-Z

Using this program, the user will be able to get the most detailed information about established graphics adapters. The interface is designed as compactly as possible, but at the same time all the necessary data fit on one window.

GPU-Z is great for those who want to know everything about their graphics chip. This software is distributed absolutely free of charge and supports the Russian language, however, not all parts are translated, but this is not a significant drawback.

System Spec

System Spec - developed by one person, freely distributed, but there have not been updates for quite some time. This program does not require installation after downloading to your computer, you can use it immediately after downloading. She provides a large number of useful information not only about the hardware, but also about the state of the system as a whole.

PC Wizard

Now this program is not supported by developers, respectively, and updates are not released. However, the latest version can be comfortably used. PC Wizard allows you to find out detailed information about components, track their status and conduct several performance tests.

The interface is quite simple and clear, and the presence of the Russian language helps to quickly understand all the functions of the program. You can download and use it absolutely free.

SiSoftware Sandra

SiSoftware Sandra is distributed for a fee, but for its money it provides the user with a wide range of functions and capabilities. What is unique about this program is that you can connect to a computer remotely, you just need to have access to do so. In addition, it is possible to connect to servers or just to a local computer.

This software allows you to monitor the state of the system as a whole, find out detailed information about the hardware. You can also find sections with installed programs, various files and drivers. All of this can be edited. loading latest version in Russian is available on the official website.

BatteryInfoView

A narrowly focused utility, the purpose of which is to display data about the installed battery and monitor its condition. Unfortunately, she doesn’t know anything else, but she completely fulfills her task. Available flexible setting and some additional functionality.

All detailed information is opened with one click, and the Russian language allows you to master the work of the software even faster. You can download BatteryInfoView from the official website for free, there is also a crack with installation instructions.

Is not full list all programs that provide information about PC components, however, during testing they showed themselves quite well, and even a few of them will be enough to get all possible detailed information not only about components, but also about the operating system.

The need to test the performance of a particular computer component arises infrequently. Provided, of course, that you are not doing it professionally. And yet, no, no, and there is a need to check how fast the new one is, to measure the "parrots" shown by a freshly installed video card with other owners of similar configurations, to be proud of the speed of the latest generation processor. We will talk about what utilities for testing the speed of a computer may be needed.

Why testing is needed

I have already named one of the reasons - to check how much faster the system works with new components, for example, after an upgrade. Or just a device fell into your hands, and you are not averse to running benchmarks on it. But sports interest is only one side of the issue.

Such testing allows, among other things, to seriously load the system, both as a whole and its individual components. This can be useful for identifying the source of problems if the computer has a tendency to random freezes, reboots, blue screens, etc. This is not just a performance test, but also a stability test.

It can also help you choose the optimal driver that achieves maximum performance, testing to make sure that the cooling system is doing its job. For example, when replacing a processor with a newer and possibly hotter one, the old cooler may no longer be able to cope with the increased load. Of course, the processor will not burn out, but it can start to slow down. And why is this needed, was an upgrade started for this?

In general, such a check is useful in different situations. And in order to carry it out, you need the right tools. In this case - specialized utilities and software packages. Next, I will indicate a list of popular and frequently used tools. The list, of course, does not claim to be complete, and if I missed something interesting, write in the comments. We will collect the optimal set of programs, make such a “gentleman's” set of needs for checking computer hardware.

Test procedure

Just a few words about how to test a computer. This is not a revelation, but still I remind you.

First, you need to update your device drivers (if any). It is highly desirable to take them (drivers) on the websites of equipment manufacturers. Personally, I am not in favor of using various programs with driver sets or automatically monitoring and updating them. Nevertheless, the process of what is installed there on your computer should be controlled independently.

Secondly. The correct power plan should be set in the system in order to exclude the stop of certain devices, as well as to exclude any restrictions in the parameters of the processor, etc.

Thirdly. Turn off all running in background programs so that nothing interferes with the tests. Naturally, you should not use the computer while the verification process is in progress.

Perhaps that's all. Well, also be patient and prepare for the fact that you have to spend some time on all these events.

System check

PC Mark 10

One of the most popular packages for checking the system as a whole. The program is paid. The basic free configuration has limitations and can only perform general testing. The extended version costs $29.99. At the end of the tests, a certain numerical result is displayed, which can be compared with other systems, the test results are available on the network.

Link to the program.

PassMark PerformanceTest 9.0

Another set of tests to evaluate system performance. Initially available 32 standard test, divided into 5 groups, as well as 8 custom tests. The results can also be compared with others online.

The program is paid, but there is a 30-day trial period for free use.

Link to the program.

Processor check

superpi

small free utility, which calculates the number Pi up to a certain decimal place. The program has not been updated for a long time, but it is quite suitable for testing the speed of work, although there is a limitation - the calculation is performed in one thread, i.e. loaded into best case one processor core.

Link to the program.

wPrime

A program similar to the previous one that calculates the number Pi up to a certain decimal place, but, unlike it, it works in multi-threaded mode, which allows loading all processor cores. The program is also free.

Link to the program.

Cinebench

A very popular processor test, good, in particular, because it simulates the execution of a certain real work, since a 3D scene is being rendered. The program is free and works on both Windows and iOS.

Link to the program.

Geekbench

Cross-platform benchmark for testing the processor and memory. It is possible to publish your results or compare them online with existing ones. The program is paid, but there is a free trial period.

Link to the program.

Checking video cards

3D mark

One of the most famous test packages for testing video cards. Although the program is paid, there is a free trial period. Based on the results of the test, a certain value is displayed that reflects the performance.

Unigine Heaven

Free GPU testing software. Scenes are rendered in real time, which allows you to evaluate performance. There are several tests.

Download program.

Game tests

This is not the name of the test package. The best test for a graphics card is the games themselves, and some of them have a built-in benchmark, such as Hitman, Metro 2033 and whole line others.

Memory testing

AIDA64

In reality, this is a whole package of utilities for testing computer components, as well as displaying detailed information about it. A memory test is one of the features of this program. Versions available for Windows, iOS, Ubuntu, Android, Windows phone. AIDA64 is paid, but there is a free period of use.

Download program.

Memtest86+

Quite an old program, but still relevant. Unlike others, it allows you to create a bootable CD or flash drive and run the test without booting the OS. This program is useful when there is a suspicion that it is the RAM that is not working correctly. If there are several RAM sticks installed in the system, then it is best to test them one at a time.

Download program.

Drive testing

Crystal Disk Benchmark

A free utility that allows you to evaluate the performance of your drive. Can be used with both hard drives and SSDs.

Download program.

Anvil's Storage Utilities

A program for complex testing of drives. Several tests are run in different modes. The results are shown both in MB / s, IOPS, and in some points issued to the device under test. Allows you to compare the performance of different drives under different loads.

The main task that the computer diagnostic program performs is to obtain as much as possible more information about the software and hardware of the device.

With its help, determine whether there are enough resources to run specific application, check the characteristics of the system, components and their condition.

Such programs are especially important for a person who, for whatever reason, needs to know the parameters of someone else's computer and to correct errors.

The need for system monitoring

Applications that can be used to diagnose the system are required to obtain important information which will help:

  1. Determine how much memory is installed on your computer, its type and number of slots. After that, it will be much easier to choose a new suitable RAM or conclude that it is worth replacing the entire motherboard or computer (laptop);
  2. Understand exactly how to prepare for the release of the expected game - add memory, install a more powerful processor, purchase an additional HDD or video card
  3. Determine the temperature of the GPU and CPU, identifying the need to replace thermal paste;
  4. Find out why they don't work installed programs and the computer freezes - due to incorrect drivers, insufficient video memory, or hardware malfunction.

CPU-Z

The program distributed free of charge has an unpretentious interface and allows you to receive technical information about almost all elements of a computer:

  • Processor (including its model, architecture, socket, voltage, frequency, multiplier, cache sizes and number of cores);
  • Motherboard (brand, model, BIOS version, supported memory types);
  • RAM (volume, type and frequency);

The main advantages of the application is the ability to obtain detailed and accurate information in Russian about all components of the system.

It can be useful for professional users and hobbyists.

Among the minuses is the inability to determine the temperature of the processors.

Speccy

One more free program makes it possible to get details about all major components and software, starting from the processor and the board, ending RAM and optical discs.

In addition, using Speccy, you can get data from temperature sensors, finding ways to correct connection errors or install a ventilation system.

Naturally, the application also determines the number of RAM slots, which can be an important factor in determining the need and possibilities for upgrading a computer.

And when preparing the device for sale, Speccy can be used to quickly compile a list of components.

After all, although the built-in utilities allow you to do almost the same, it will take more time, and you won’t be able to find out some data.

It is worth noting that the developers of the program are the authors of such useful software as .

And among its advantages are:

  • Clear and practical interface;
  • Quick access to important information;
  • No need to install an application, which may be necessary, for example, if you do not have access to account administrator;
  • Ability to monitor the selected parameter in real time by setting it as a tray icon;
  • Run simultaneously with the system;
  • Free access.

HWiNFO

Thanks to system application HWiNFO , you can get the most useful information about the system.

And also compare the performance of individual hardware components with template parameters and indicators of popular analogues.

In addition, the program allows you to create reports that can be used to compare performance individual elements PC.

All the information is quite detailed, but it only applies to equipment - you won’t be able to find out about the drivers with it.

However, this drawback is practically the only one, since the application is able to collect data on any devices, including even outdated equipment (for example, IDEs and dial-up modems), old bios and video cards of any type.

In addition, the application can also test processors, memory and disks. The data obtained as a result of the test can be stored in logs.

And you can control individual parameters using the tray icons, which change periodically.

AIDA64 Extreme

Its name can be deciphered as system info for Windows.

It has a small size and a simplified interface, reminiscent of the standard Windows utilities and is able to provide all the most necessary information for the user.

For example, using SIW, you can learn about latest updates systems, get information about system files or folders, as well as drivers, running processes and services.

Moreover, in a more detailed form than the "Task Manager" allows you to do.

For commercial or corporate use, a license must be purchased.

conclusions

The number of programs for checking equipment and the operating system is quite large.

Almost constantly, new applications are being created to help control computer parameters and hardware malfunctions.

But the programs presented in the list allow you to do this as efficiently as possible by installing only 2-3 applications, and not a whole dozen.

This saves time and does not download unnecessary files from the network, risking accidentally introducing a virus onto the computer.

In addition, if there is no access to the network, Windows has a number of utilities that will also allow you to find out some parameters.

Video footage:

To find out what hardware is inside or a laptop, special programs will help, they are also called utilities. There are a lot of them, consider the most popular ones.

AIDA64 (or "Everest")

AIDA64 (or "Everest") - providing information not only about hardware, but also about programs and fan characteristics and much more.

Everest, in addition to information about computer components and tracking their work, can also do tests (like SoftwareSandra). They are produced during the upgrade (modernization). There are several versions of the program (4). For home computer fit AIDA64 Extreme Edition . You can download the program (Russian-language) from. The program is not free - you need to register it after 30 days (This "split" version is on trackers - checked. http://rutracker.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=4749469) . Downloading setup file and we launch it. After installation and launch, an interface appears.

Click on the relevant links and everything will be shown. For example, clicking on the left on " Motherboard» Icons for board devices open, clicking on which will provide detailed information.

A small utility called "Speccy" (4.9 MB) allows you to determine the components inside the computer. For example, you can find out the type of processor, which motherboard installed, video card and so on.

The Speccy utility (free), after downloading, is installed on the computer in a folder, for example, Program Files. To do this, an executable file with the extension "exe" is launched. After installation, the Speccy itself starts up. Then you need to change the interface slightly - turn on the Russian language. This is done in the "Options" window. There is a tab "General" with the item "Languare" (language).
It has a Russian-language version of the interface.

When installing, carefully look at what is also suggested to install CCleaner.

Click on the “No thanks…” button on the radio and press the “Next” button. After installation and launch, you will see a window.

Speccy will give detailed information about:

  1. operating system.
  2. Random access memory.
  3. system board.
  4. Graphic devices.
  5. Data storage.
  6. optical drives.
  7. Sound cards and devices.

CPU-Z

A special utility for laptops BatteryinfoView gives a wide range of information about the battery and all its characteristics. Download, for example, from this .

SISoftwareSandra is considered the most informative program about computer hardware and its characteristics. It is being distributed free of charge.

You can talk about the Sandra program for a long time. It is installed on the computer.

When you start your eyes run wide at the sight of the program's capabilities. It gives out all the information about the computer's hardware, makes and tests them.

Not all features are available, although the program is free. Some of them can be obtained only by activating a paid license. You can, of course, find the key to it on the Internet. SISoftwareSandra will show hardware compatibility with the current operating system and full information about her. Using the program comes down to selecting the desired function with the mouse arrow, then launching it. Sandra purchased the Price Engine in the 2011 version, and in 2015 new improvements and fixes.

Short video

Liked the article? Share with friends!
Was this article helpful?
Yes
Not
Thanks for your feedback!
Something went wrong and your vote was not counted.
Thank you. Your message has been sent
Did you find an error in the text?
Select it, click Ctrl+Enter and we'll fix it!