This is to check that everything is working correctly. If an operating system has already been installed on the machine then this can be used for a functional test. Use the utilities within the operating system to carry out the functions of the various peripherals - for example:

• Check the keyboard and mouse by using them.
• Check a scanner by scanning a simple image.
• Check the various disc drives by creating a simple text message and saving it to the discs. Start up the application used to create the simple text message and load up the file again from each disc in turn, ensure that the text is still the same and not corrupted.
• Check a printer by creating and printing out a simple text print out.
• If a terminal program is available, e.g. HyperTerminal in Windows 95/98/Me use it to communicate with a serial port and modem. Typing AT and pressing [Enter] should result in OK being printed on the terminal display
• If the operating system has a system information utility, such as the Help and Support centre in Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000, use it to check that all the units features are being seen - correct processor, correct amount of RAM etc.

If any of the checks do not work, correct the fault before carrying on, and carry out all the checks again. If an operating system has not yet been installed use a boot disk¹ to bring the machine to a prompt and use manufacturer’s or third party diagnostic routines to check the units using the diagnostic tests described later.

[1] Boot Disc - A disc used for loading an operating system and bringing up the machine to prompt so that diagnostic tests can be carried out. The creation of a boot disc is described in the section on Troubleshooting Tools.