664 Computer Service and Repair
Windows Vista Reliability and Performance
Windows Vista Reliability and Performance utility is a new addition to the
Microsoft Computer Management console. Figure 15-25 shows the
Reliability and
Performance
option in the left-hand pane and the program in the center pane.
Notice that the Reliability and Performance utility displays the current condition
of the CPU, disk drive(s), network adapter, and memory. The options for this
utility are extensive and too much to cover in a short section. To learn more about
the Reliability and Performance utility, use Windows Vista Help and Support.
Windows Vista Memory Diagnostics Tool
Memory problems can be difficult to identify because they can occur
intermittently. For example, if a computer slowly overheats after an extended
period of time, RAM could stop working or cause software program errors. Often,
a technician may do a complete reinstallation of the operating system only to
have a random error occur once more. Microsoft Vista now includes the Memory
Diagnostics Tool, which diagnoses memory chip problems. If the Memory
Diagnostics Tool detects a problem with a section of RAM, it automatically
restricts the use of the RAM cell locations to avoid using the defective memory
section. This allows the computer to be used until the RAM is replaced.
To start the Memory Diagnostics Tool, go to
Start | All Programs |
Administrative
Tools. Right-click
Memory Diagnostics Tool
and select
Run as
administrator
from the shortcut menu. You will be prompted that Windows needs
your permission to continue. Click
Continue
to grant permission.
Figure 15-24.
The Problem Reports
and Solutions utility
keeps a listing of
all the problems
Windows Vista has
identified on the
system, including
a description of the
problem, the date it
was identified, and
whether or not a
report was sent to
Microsoft.