[SOLVED] Diagnostic Tools

[EmilyEstelle]

I was wondering if there is a tool for computer diagnostics that is similar to the code reader car mechanics use to tell what is wrong with cars. It just seems odd that with so many advances in technology, we're still limited to swapping parts in and out of our PCs to see where the hardware failure lies. Is there not a tool we can plug into a port on the main board which will tell us what elements of the hardware are working and which have failed? I'm curious about this, and if it doesn't exist then why not?

What do you guys think?

Thanks,
Emily

 

[Ralston18]

My overall view, cynicism conceded, is that manufacturers do not want end users to have such tools.

Applies to automobiles, applicances, and computers/technology in general.

Why - they make more money "fixing" things that customers/end users believe that they cannot fix or may really even be prevented from doing so for lack of repair documentation, diagnostic equipment, and tools.

I will cite automobiles and appliances as a key example.

Computers and IT in general:

There are some "feel good" tools available. E.g. EZ-debug etc... Usually of limited value and meaning.

Sometimes there are utility applications, DOS/Powershell commands, OS troubleshooters, etc. that may help narrow down to some particular problem. Still limited in some specific cause identification and the more important "fix" or "resolution".

Overall, there are many, many good things that could be done over a wide range of topics and issues.

The reason they are not done is simply greed. Just my personal view, and again, cynical, view.

That is what I think.