What is the best way to troubleshoot hardware components before installing them in a computer system?

Before even buying or switching components it is always best to read the detailed manual on what specifications are supported or not. Then after that ensure all components complement each other and function well together. Always be ensured of any warranties or guaranties of all components.

Verify compatibility - spec sheets for component, motherboard and operating system. "motherboard support does not equal, OS support and vise versa. Power needs - sufficient power for all hardware Connectors/Adaptors - Power, Audio, Data, Video Cables needed to complete change. Cooling needs - Adding additional components might overheat the current architecture - lacking air flow or blocking air flow can create Demons in your equipment causing lockups, BSOD, component failure, data corruption, and other performance issues. Analyze the need - clients have the wrong perception on what is needed for their systems to perform better. Additional RAM might not make a heavily graphical app perform better. Many times it's just training.

Normally, I first check online forums to see history of compatibility from others that have used the same hardware, then I check the physical hardware in my hand for defects and ensure all parts are present and tightly fixed. If it has a code I also scan and google the code for compartibility and history with the current Operating System I want to install on.

Compatibility is the most important aspect before adding any hardware to the computer. We need to know the specs that work with the system and work with those.

In my experience, i verify first the compatibility and then install the right hardware with the best reviews and ratings.

There are two tests - hardware and software. Hardware test includes - physical examination, checking for defects and ensuring all components are placed and held tightly. Software test includes - using software programs to check device health, type, manufacture etc. Test for health, speed and device specs. Ensure all firmware are up-to-date.

If building a computer from scratch, always assemble the components on top of a motherboard box (or any clean cardboard box you can grab). This way you can assemble and power the system of to see if the computer completes the POST system check. If it doesn't pass POST, remove all PCIE cards and RAM. Inset a single RAM stick back into the motherboard and make sure it seats into place. If it POSTS now, shut the system down and add another component. When POST fails, you found the offending part.

Once you get all the components, Assemble them on an open bench or the box your motherboard came in (Install the processor/CPU Cooler/RAM/SSD/Graphics card if you do not have a CPU supporting video output and the PSU. Then run the system install Drivers/Windows/Update BIOS and do some hardware benchmarks to ensure it is stable and the thermals are good. Then you can transfer them to a casing.

I actually checked what type of computer I have and the type of motherboard installed. Specially if I want to upgrade my memory card Specially my SDRAM . I need to know the capacity of my processor if it will be able to run high memory card. Check if the memory slots are compatible or not.. So it depends on what you want to use it for.

The best way to test your components to make sure they are not DOA is to assemble the PC outside of the case on the motherboard box and make sure it posts (display UEFI/BIOS on a screen) if it doesn't boot then start troubleshooting what component is dead

Motherboard bios updates are something that I have learned to always check for. It can fix anything from random lock ups and bluescreens to adding support for something like a new processor or graphics card. Also older motherboards sit on warehouse shelves untouched for years. When receive it the bios might be several years out of date.

Old drivers are a common problem when installing new components. This can be cause by being out of date for the new model, or because you have conflicting drivers from swapping to another company's product (Nvidia doesn't make Radeon drivers, for example). It's best to make sure your computer is hooked up to a UPS battery backup when updating hardware drivers to minimize the chance the the driver is corrupted and disables the system. Especially with motherboard BIOS updates. If the BIOS update is ruined, you may need to replace the motherboard completely.

While updating is typically good, I have run into issues where the update is what broke the part. Sometimes it is good to roll back the driver or firmware to test. A good online search will also confirm this at times.

In addition to what everyone else is saying on here, I would say that you shouldn’t assume that since the OS found what it thinks it the optimal driver for the hardware that it’s actually the right driver. I would also start a new build out with the latest BIOS update before other hardware was even added.

A clean work space is critical. Discharge any static electricity prior to handling sensitive components. Have the correct tools on hand. Think of it like cooking (Mise en place) where everything you need is at hand and organized prior to beginning.

This step should come before altering any firmware or drivers especially considering you are already inside the computer in step 2

Always ensure budget first, then look for the best parts possible within that price range. Consider all limitations of the devices. Watch multiple reviews to ensure user knows what the user gets. Ensure compatibility and update all necessary firmware and drivers. Finally check all devices to see they are running at desired settings.

Good points but I generally would have done it differently depending on the scenario. If it is a new computer failing at startup then specifications may make a difference however if it was working and then failed you can safely assume they are not a factor. Attempt start after every step 1) error codes, research them if available 2) check history of system and system type and eliminate as necessary 3) visual inspection for damaged or loose connections and components 4) use check PSU voltage with test equipment 5) remove all non essential components (leave CPU, memory, use onboard graphics if available) 6) replace components 1 by 1 until you find your culprit 7) test component in known working system

Reddit and Amazon have a lot of unfiltered reviews. Before I buy something Ill look it up on Amazon and read the reviews. Or google "product name reddit".

Check the power requirement. Always check if it is within the range the PC can supply Another thing is the memory requirement of the said component. Will it slows down your PC? More so of you are adding a graphics card