The simplest but most effective advice on how to deal with hardware follows the old “turn it off and on again” routine. Yet, a lot of people often ignore the fact of putting the device back into the correct port or socket.
The most common problem occurs from service calls created by incorrect reconnection. Take each of the following steps in order to disconnect and reconnect your equipment properly, making sure that each piece of gear is connected to the right socket as you go.
Step 1: Identify the Problem Device
Before you start unplugging cables, please first find the device that’s not working. This could be anything from a
- printer not printing,
- a monitor not displaying,
- phone system not answering,
- a video conferencing camera not connecting,
- or a network device not connecting to the internet.
Test each device to help locate which device is the central problem.
Step 2: Record and Document the Current Setup
Take a Note or Photo of the setup:
Before disconnecting anything or any device, take a detailed note or a clear photo of the current setup. It is important to remember which ports or sockets each cable is connected to (will save time in the long run). This will be your roadmap for reconnecting later on.
Label Cables and Ports (if possible):
If you have multiple cables or ports, consider labelling them with small pieces of tape and a sharpie to identify which cable goes where. This is a top tip from our experts. This will also help any professionals coming in to also easily identify cords and cables.
Step 3: Disconnect and Reconnect
Power Down: Safely power down the device if possible. For devices without an on/off switch, proceed to the next step.
Disconnect: Gently disconnect the device from its power source and unplug all cables connected to it. Remember to handle cables by the plug, not the cord, to avoid damage.
Inspect and Clean: Briefly inspect the cables and ports for any visible damage or debris. Use compressed air to blow out dust from ports if necessary.
Reconnect: Carefully reconnect each cable to its respective port, referring to the notes or photo you took earlier to ensure accuracy. It’s crucial to match each cable to the correct port as incorrect connections can lead to further issues or even hardware damage.
Power On: Once all cables are securely reconnected, power on the device and check if the issue has been resolved.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Wrong Ports:
The commonest mistake is always plugging cables into wrong ports, mostly in equipment which has several look-alike ports—case in point, those of USB 3.0 and USB-C.
Forced Connections:
Never force a cable into a port. If it doesn’t fit easily, it’s likely the wrong port or orientation.
Ignoring Cable Types:
Be aware of different cable types and their specific ports, such as Ethernet (RJ-45), HDMI, DisplayPort, and others. Each has a unique shape and purpose.
Final Checks
If the device still isn’t working after reconnecting, there might be a deeper issue at hand. Refer to the device’s manual for further troubleshooting tips or contact your IT support team for assistance.
By taking the time to disconnect and reconnect your devices properly, you can avoid the frustration and downtime associated with simple connection errors. Remember, a little attention to detail goes a long way in the smooth operation of your technology infrastructure.
