Hardware fault diagnosis. Diagnostics of all PC devices. Our technicians will install and connect office equipment to any computer device, regardless of its type and operating system, install drivers, make all the necessary settings,
TOP programs for computer diagnostics
Your computer has become faulty again, but you don't know what the problem is? Maybe you are thinking about selling your hardware, but collecting information with built-in applications takes a lot of time, and you would like to find a solution faster and easier? Then you can pay attention to computer diagnostic programs. We have compiled a small rating; all of them have already proven themselves to be reliable and fast help, so we can recommend them for work.
Pivot table
| Name | Purpose | Version/Year | Spreading | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A system utility that allows you to obtain information about all computer components | v1.32.740 | Free / Paid PRO version | DOWNLOAD | |
| A system utility that allows you to obtain information about all computer components. As well as readings from the system’s temperature sensors | v5.86/2018 | Free | DOWNLOAD | |
| A system utility that contains all the necessary information about your computer. As well as a large number of PC performance and stability tests | v5.97.4600/2018 | Shareware 30 days License ($39.95 for 3 PCs) | DOWNLOAD | |
| View processor characteristics, motherboard, memory (RAM), Benchmark and processor stress test. | v1.85.0 / 2018 | Free | DOWNLOAD | |
PerformanceTest | The system utility contains general information about the PC, as well as a large list of performance tests for both the system and individual elements | v9.0 (Build 1025) / 2018 | DOWNLOAD | |
HWMONITOR | Convenient utility for monitoring temperature sensors, fan speeds and system voltage | v1.35/2018 | Free | DOWNLOAD |
SpeedFan | The utility monitors system temperature sensors and controls speed active system PC cooling | v4.52/2017 | Free | DOWNLOAD |
| A comprehensive utility with great functionality. Contains information about system hardware, as well as installed software | v8.3.0710/2018 | Shareware 30 days License ($19.00) | DOWNLOAD | |
Memtest86+ | Performance testing utility random access memory(RAM) | v5.01/2013 | Free | DOWNLOAD |
CrystalDiskInfo | Testing utility hard drives(HDD/SSD) | v7.6.1/2018 | Free | DOWNLOAD |
Passmark Keyboard Test | Utility for testing the functionality of the data input device (keyboard) | v3.2 (Build 1002) / 2017 | Shareware 30 days License ($29.00) | DOWNLOAD |
Monitor Test | Computer screen testing utility | v3.2 (Build 1006) / 2018 | Shareware 30 days License ($29.00) | DOWNLOAD |
Why is it necessary to monitor your PC system?
Any computer and laptop is a complex machine that every second performs many processes from displaying a picture on the screen to writing a letter pressed on the keyboard. That is why it is important to constantly monitor the condition of your device, noticing problems that arise in the operation in time, because one incorrectly functioning element can break the operation of the entire machine.
Programs that conduct a complete diagnostic of the entire PC help to track incorrect operation.. As an example, they can determine how much memory is installed on your laptop, as well as the type of memory and the number of slots. Why do you need this information?
The computer technician will tell you that this will help you find a new, more suitable RAM. With new data, you will be able to understand whether you need to change the motherboard, whether to add memory, whether to install a more powerful processor, whether to buy an additional HDD. Some utilities will monitor the temperature of the processors to tell you if the thermal paste needs to be replaced to avoid overheating. In general, all diagnostic type applications will help you find out why your PC or a specific installed program is not working. To understand which utility to install for you, it remains to learn more about each of our ratings.
Diagnostic highlights
Inexperienced PC users are sure that they will not be able to cope with the problems that have arisen, and immediately run to computer specialists and service centers without trying to figure it out yourself. However, it is enough to find out what problems may occur with your computer in order to find out what the problem is and solve it on your own.
The following may interfere with the operation of your computer or laptop:
- Overheating of chips and connectors due to dust
- Severe oxidation of contacts
- Incorrect grounding
- Unstable operation of the power supply
- Overheating of PC components due to excessive cooling
- Burnout of components due to overvoltage or power surge
The reports that any utility will produce will tell you exactly where non-standard parameters are observed. Also, if the situation is clearly beyond your capabilities, you can take the diagnostic result to the specialist or send it by email.
If you are experiencing incorrect work only one element, then it’s worth downloading a utility whose work is aimed at analyzing its performance.
For example, for graphics cards, it is important that the benchmark still evaluates the PC's performance. And to analyze the performance of hard drives, you will have to compare the results with the characteristics of drives on other devices.
Description of diagnostic programs: top 12 leaders
We have selected all the necessary tools available on the Internet. The programs have different purposes and a variety of functionality, you just have to find the best option for you. Remember that sometimes it is necessary to install several programs at once in order to carry out not only a general scan of the computer, but testing and comparison with analogues.
AIDA64
Utility tariff plans
AIDA64 It is often found on the devices of specialists and computer technicians, because it provides comprehensive and reliable information about components, OS, others installed programs , networks and external devices
. This program conducts a complete diagnostic of the computer, collecting the necessary system data, but tests individual elements, including RAM, helping to configure parameters for optimal operation. This utility will be very convenient for those who are not very versed in hardware:
all the information provided is located on the right in a separate panel, and it is also intuitively structured according to the main parameters. – This utility is good because it performs the functions of a benchmark. that is, it determines the power of the processor and video card and provides a comparison with data from other models. She can also determine installed drivers
and even search for their latest versions if necessary. AIDA64 makes it possible to monitor the system in real time to monitor the load on key system nodes. Review reports are issued as a document that can be saved in any format. The reports themselves, as well as the program interface, have been translated into Russian, which will allow even an amateur to work with the program. By the way, you can install AIDA64 not only on any version of Windows, but also on mobile gadgets on Android, iOS and
Windows Phone
. Unfortunately, the utility is not free, but it does have a demo version, albeit a rather limited one.
Speccy
Now Speccy is the most effective program to receive detailed reports on the operation of the system, although it has not yet gained much popularity on the Internet. It is free and supported on all Windows models from XP to 10. This utility allows you to find out the necessary data about the processor, memory, video card, hard drive and installed operating system, and it provides complete information in an extremely convenient form, so that even a beginner can understand it. For example, with its help you can see the number of RAM slots and decide whether you need to upgrade your PC.
What is important, Speccy not only helps to obtain information from temperature measurement sensors, but also suggests ways to correct connection errors or easily install a ventilation system.
The program works in such a way that upon startup it scans the entire computer. It weighs very little, so we recommend downloading it, even if there is no need for it now: it will allow you to control the heating of your PC, quickly make a list of components, and even monitor the list of drivers needed for installation.
By the way, the data is saved in TXT and XML formats, so in the event of a breakdown, you can show the report to the technician. Do not forget that the developers of Speccy are the creators of CCleaner and Defraggler, which in itself is a guarantor of quality and stable operation.
HWiNFO
Program website
HWiNFO
HWiNFO is a program used mainly by professionals and hardware experts. It is necessary for everyone who delves into the depths hardware, because it provides all the information about each important element. In addition to PC analysis, it is suitable for obtaining data about outdated equipment, old BIOSes, video cards, and so on.
It also helps to compare the performance of hardware components not only with standard indicators, but also with the characteristics of popular analogues.
- The main functionality of the utility includes:
- Recognition of microprocessors with determination of their parameters
- FSB frequency calculation
- Testing processors, memory and disks
- Obtaining data about the motherboard and BIOS
- Reading information from SPD
Identification of a large variety of video accelerators And that's not yet full list opportunities. In general, HWiNFO allows you to obtain information about almost everything except, perhaps, drivers. She saves all received data in a log.
, so that in the future they can be obtained and used. By the way, you can constantly monitor parameters for some element by installing tray icons.
CPU-Z
Official site
CPU-Z free program , allowing you to quickly obtain important technical information about the main elements of your computer. The utility is distributed in two versions, differing in the need for installation, but in terms of performance they are approximately the same.
CPU-Z can determine:
- Model, number of cores, architecture and processor socket
- Voltage, frequency, cache and processor multiplier
- Motherboard brand and model
- BIOS version and memory type
- Volume, type and frequency of RAM
- Name, type and capacity of the video card
The main advantage for Russian speakers is the ability to obtain accurate characteristics in Russian. Of course, the design of CPU-Z is quite sparse, but for applications of this type it is not important, and minimalism does not complicate the perception of information.
The only real disadvantage is the inability to determine the processor temperature. But in contrast are the good speed of scanning the computer and the reliability of the utility.
HWMonitor
Program website
HWMonitor
Simple, clear and most importantly absolutely free utility.
With which you can monitor the readings of temperature sensors motherboard, CPU temperature, temperature hard drive, the voltage in the circuit.
As well as the battery capacity and the degree of its wear. The program shows three columns: minimum, average and peak values.
PerformanceTest
CPU-Z
PerformanceTest
This tool is slightly different from previous options - it is a set of tests for assessing PC performance. As a result of each testing, the program collects characteristics that it compares with those of similar devices. Latest version This utility contains 27 functions that differ in their association with a specific category. Several can be highlighted:
- For the processor - compression, encryption and computation speed
- For a video card where the display quality of two-, 3D graphics and animations, as well as compatibility with DirectX and its analogues
- For a hard drive where you can test writing, reading and speed of information retrieval
- For disk drives
- For RAM
There are many more functions, in addition, the user can create five of his own tests. By the way, the program saves test reports in many standard formats from HTML to Docx. They can be sent by email address, or paste into any text editor and print.
Very noteworthy is the ability to import tests into another application and insert them into the site code. It is important to note that PerformanceTest is only shareware, but it can be easily downloaded and activated on many file hosting services. It works on all versions of Windows from XP to 10.
CrystalDiskMark
Program website
CrystalDiskMark
Another program designed to conduct tests and analyze the read and write speed of a hard drive. CrystalDiskMark uses test files ranging in size from 50 MB to 32 GB, and by running them, the utility reveals the average disk speed. To identify accurate performance indicators, it performs several checks at once, the number of which you personally specify before starting testing. In the settings section, you can choose the data type, intervals between tests, queue sizes and number of threads.
The program is free, Russified and suitable for any version of Windows. It is very small in size, so it downloads quickly and takes up almost no space.
CrystalDiskMark provides results in a convenient format. Of course, data on the average speed of reading and writing “hard” is unlikely to be of interest to an amateur, but a professional can easily understand the reporting. By the way, the more tests the program runs, the more average results you will get.
Hard disk information
Hello.
When working at a computer, sometimes various kinds of failures and errors occur, and getting to the bottom of the reason for their occurrence without special software is not an easy task! In this help article, I want to post the best programs for testing and diagnosing PCs, which will help in solving a wide variety of problems.
By the way, some of the programs can not only restore the computer’s functionality, but also “kill” Windows (you will have to reinstall the OS), or cause the PC to overheat. Therefore, be careful with such utilities (it’s definitely not worth experimenting without knowing what this or that function does).
CPU testing
Rice. 1. CPU-Z main window
A free program for determining all the characteristics of a processor: name, core type and stepping, socket used, support for certain multimedia instructions, cache memory size and parameters. There is a portable version that does not require installation.
By the way, processors of even the same name can be slightly different: for example, different cores with different steppings. Some information can be found on the processor cover, but usually it is hidden far away in the system unit and is not easy to get to.
Another important advantage of this utility is its ability to create a text report. In turn, such a report can be useful when solving a wide variety of problems with a PC problem. I recommend having such a utility in your arsenal!
One of the most frequently used utilities, at least on my computer. Allows you to solve a wide range of problems:
Control over startup (removing everything unnecessary from startup);
Monitor the temperature of the processor, hard drive, video card;
Obtaining summary information on the computer and any of its hardware in particular. This information can be indispensable when searching for drivers for rare hardware:
Overall, in my humble opinion, this is one of the best system utilities, containing everything you need. By the way, many experienced users are familiar with the predecessor of this program - Everest (by the way, they are very similar).
One of best programs to test the performance of the computer's processor and RAM. The program is based on complex mathematical calculations that can completely and permanently load even the most powerful processor!
By the way, the program works in all popular Windows operating systems today: XP, 7, 8, 10.
Temperature monitoring and analysis
Temperature is one performance indicator that can say a lot about the reliability of a PC. The temperature is usually measured for three PC components: the processor, the hard drive and the video card (they are the ones that most often overheat).
By the way, the AIDA 64 utility measures the temperature quite well (about it in the article above, I also recommend this link:).
SpeedFan
This small utility can not only monitor the temperature of the hard drives and processor, but also help adjust the rotation speed of the coolers. On some PCs they make a lot of noise, thereby irritating the user. Moreover, you can reduce their rotation speed without harming the computer (adjusting the rotation speed is recommended for experienced users, This operation may cause your PC to overheat!).
Core Temp
A small program that measures temperature directly from the processor sensor (bypassing unnecessary ports). The accuracy of the readings is one of the best of its kind!
Programs for overclocking and monitoring video card performance
By the way, for those who want to speed up a video card without using third-party utilities (i.e., no overclocking and no risks), I recommend reading the articles on fine-tuning video cards:
Riva Tuner
Rice. 6. Riva Tuner
A once very popular utility for fine-tuning Nvidia video cards. Allows overclocking Nvidia video cards both through standard drivers and “directly”, working with hardware. That is why you should work with it carefully, without going too far with the parameter settings (especially if you have not yet had experience working with such utilities).
Also, quite well, this utility can help with settings for resolution (locking it, useful in many games), frame rate (not relevant for modern monitors).
By the way, the program has its own “basic” driver and registry settings for certain work cases (for example, when starting a game, the utility can switch the video card operating mode to the required one).
Rice. 7. ATITool - main window
Very interesting program program for overclocking ATI and nVIDIA video cards. It has automatic overclocking functions, and also has a special algorithm for “loading” the video card in three-dimensional mode (see Fig. 7, above).
When testing in three-dimensional mode, you can find out the number of FPS produced by the video card at one or another fine tuning, you can also immediately notice artifacts and defects in the graphics (by the way, this moment means that it is dangerous to overclock the video card further). In general, an indispensable tool when trying to overclock a graphics adapter!
Recovering information if accidentally deleted or formatted
Quite a large and extensive topic that deserves a whole separate article (and more than one). On the other hand, it would be wrong not to include it in this article. Therefore, here, in order not to repeat myself and not to increase the size of this article to “huge” sizes, I will only provide links to my other articles on this topic.
Recovery Word documents -
Determining a malfunction (primary diagnosis) of a hard drive by sound:
A huge directory of the most popular data recovery programs:
Testing RAM
Also, the topic is quite extensive and cannot be described in a few words. Typically, if there are problems with RAM, the PC behaves as follows: freezes, “ ” appears, spontaneous reboot, etc. For more details, see the link below.
Analysis and hard testing disk
Analysis of the occupied space on the hard drive -
Hard drive slows down, analysis and search for reasons -
Checking the hard drive for functionality, searching for bad problems -
Cleaning your hard drive from temporary files and junk -
That's all for me today. I would be grateful for additions and recommendations on the topic of the article. Good luck with your PC.
Every computer user, at least once in his life, has had to turn to software whose task is to diagnose the computer and troubleshoot problems. However, on the Internet you can find dozens, if not hundreds of different programs for this purpose. Which ones are worth paying attention to?
In today's article, we will look at eight of the best programs that will undoubtedly be useful to you when identifying problems with your PC. Let's get started.
CPU-Z is free software, whose function is to display technical information about the user's computer hardware. This program was developed by the CPUID company, which also has other interesting programs in its assortment, but CPU-Z is perhaps the most useful for many users.
With CPU-Z you can get a complete list of information about:
- central processor;
- motherboard;
- random access memory;
- graphics accelerator.
When we talk about a complete list of information, we mean information such as CPU architecture, motherboard model, BIOS/UEFI version, amount of RAM and its frequency, and so on and so forth. With CPU-Z you can get a really huge amount of really useful information.
Moreover, this program has even been completely translated into Russian. However, we cannot help but mention one extremely big disadvantage, which you can find out about almost immediately after examining all the functionality. And this minus is the lack of a function for reading the temperature of the CPU, GPU and motherboard elements.
If CPU-Z had such functionality, then it would not have a price. However, you will need to resort to other programs to measure temperature, some of which we will discuss later in this article.
Speccy
Speccy is another free and quite functional program with which users can get various technical information about their computer. It is worth noting that the well-known company Piriform, which also developed such popular programs as CCleaner, Defraggler and Recuva, is behind the development of the Speccy utility.
By opening Speccy, you can access a range of information on:
- operating system;
- central processor;
- random access memory;
- system board (i.e. motherboard);
- graphics devices (discrete and integrated video cards);
- data storage devices (HDD, SSD, etc.);
- optical drives;
- sound devices;
- peripheral devices;
- network devices.
In general, using the Speccy program you can get a fairly wide range of information about your computer. Also, do not forget that Speccy has a function for reading temperature from various sensors installed on the computer. You can see the temperature of your PC, motherboard, video card and even HDD/SSD drives.
A couple more advantages of the Speccy program - it is completely localized into Russian and has an extremely simple user interface. We click on the desired tab on the left side of the window and look at the available information on the right - it just couldn’t be easier.
HWiNFO
The next program on our list is already somewhat more difficult to use than the previous two, but it can provide users with even more detailed information about the computer. As soon as you start scanning the system using HWiNFO, several windows will immediately appear in front of you: general information about the entire system, the main HWiNFO window, where you can find specific information on certain components of your computer, as well as a small window for monitoring the operation of the processor (multiplier, frequency, number of cores, etc.).
Among other things, the HWiNFO program can also read information from various sensors located in the computer. Virtual and physical memory, paging file usage, voltage on each CPU core, frequency of each CPU core, northbridge, system bus, RAM, data from temperature sensors in the system - everything you want. However, it's worth noting that the user interface in HWiNFO can be quite confusing for inexperienced PC users, so you may have to spend a little time in front of the program to understand what it has to offer.
Utility tariff plans
AIDA64 is an extremely powerful tool from FinalWire Ltd. for diagnosing and conducting various checks user's computer hardware. Enough interesting fact: AIDA64 is a direct successor of the company's Everest software, which in turn is a successor of the AIDA32 program.
This is the unusual origin of this program. It can do everything that previous programs can do, plus a set of stress tests with which you can identify various problems with your computer. It is worth noting that AIDA64 has an extremely rich set of functions, but, unlike HDiNFO, the user interface is much simpler, which is definitely a huge plus. Well, here's the downside: the program is not free.
PassMark Performance Test
If previous programs could offer the user similar functionality, the PassMark Performance Test utility is a slightly different tool. The purpose of this program is to evaluate the performance of a computer using a set of various specialized tests, after which the user can compare the results obtained with the results of other computers.
With the PassMark Performance Test utility, you can perform various tests for:
- central processor;
- graphics accelerator;
- hard drive;
- optical drives;
- random access memory.
With the PassMark Performance Test, you can easily understand whether your computer provides adequate performance or not. And if not, then through multiple tests you will understand what the problem is. Unfortunately, this utility is not free: to gain access to certain functionality, you will need to purchase it.
CrystalDiskMark
CrystalDiskMark is useful in a situation where you need to test your hard drive (HDD) or solid state drive (SSD). The program can work with all currently available disk connection interfaces. For the most part, using the CrystalDiskMark utility, many users find out the write and read parameters of their disks. Nevertheless, at the end of the program, you will see an extensive report on the tests performed, which, unfortunately, will tell untrained users little about, but a lot will become clear to experienced users if they are looking for any problems.
SpeedFan
SpeedFan is a rather interesting program created by a developer under the name Alfredo Milani Comparetti, which is designed to read information from sensors on the motherboard, HDD and SSD drives, central processor, RAM and video card, and also has functions for adjusting the rotation speed (RPM) coolers present in the computer. Fortunately, the user interface of the SpeedFan application is extremely simple and has even been translated into Russian, and it is also distributed completely free of charge.
System Information for Windows
And the last program on our list is System Information for Windows (SIW). This program was also developed by one man - and his Gabriel Topala. The utility is an extremely powerful tool with which you can obtain detailed information about the configuration of your computer's hardware.
Among other things, with SIW you can find out network information, information about installed software, including drivers, as well as system components. The system interface is a little complicated, but you can still get used to it, after which you will have access to the extremely wide functionality of the program, for which, by the way, there is no need to pay.
Found a typo? Select the text and press Ctrl + Enter
Even the weakest Personal Computer is complex digital system, which often fails for a number of reasons. Like any other equipment, a PC is subject to diagnostics, the main part of which is to check it special programs. Some of them come bundled with drivers for system components, but the bulk of software of this kind is unified with most device models, identifies several diagnostic parameters at once and is distributed on a free or shareware basis.
Today we will talk about 10 computer diagnostic programs that are available to every user.
The first program reviewed in this article, Speccy, is the creation of the British IT company Piriform, which created the popular CCleaner utility for cleaning your computer from junk. Specky will help you diagnose your computer's hardware, displaying basic information about each installed device on board: processor, video card, motherboard, hard drive and other components. The software is distributed by the company free of charge for private use, and can be run on outdated and new operating systems Windows systems, including XP.
After installation and the first launch, Speccy, without additional greetings, immediately gets down to business - analyzing the installed equipment. Key indicators are instantly displayed in the “ tab general information" In the left tab panel, the user selects the device of interest. In addition to the component data included in the firmware, Speccy displays the current temperature of the device and can warn the owner of critically high values. For the convenience of exchanging diagnostic data, the program implements the function of snapshotting data in the form of an image or saving it in XML format and TXT.
Advantages:
- displays information about the type, manufacturer, batch number, year of manufacture, firmware version, etc.;
- takes readings from temperature sensors;
- displays nominal and current frequency indicators;
- saves the received information in the form of a document or image;
- has a simple interface without frills;
- full-fledged free software in Russian.
Flaws:
- there are no diagnostic tools (tests) to check system stability;
- displays an incomplete list of component parameters.
Official site
CPU-Z program can easily be called the world's most popular Windows-based system analyzer. It provides comprehensive information about the processor, RAM and its subsystem, and graphics adapter. CPU-Z is completely free and compatible with all existing systems today. Windows versions.
CPU-Z stands out among competitors due to two qualities: great depth of computer analysis and simplicity of the shell. With its help, you will learn about such parameters of your processor as the type and process technology of the chip, its heat dissipation, core voltage, revision and stepping, as well as the level and capacity of the cache. The same detailed report is available for RAM and motherboard chipset. This data is indispensable both for enthusiastic overclockers and for ordinary users who are interested in upgrading and customizing their computer. However, information about the video system is presented here in a compressed form, and the hard drive is not affected at all.
In addition to dry text display in CPU-Z, you can conduct simple stress tests of the system to check its stability under load. Test reports and PC status reports are saved as TXT and HTML documents.
Appearance The utility is extremely simple and has not changed since the beginning of its development. Moving through the items is done through the tabs on the top panel. There is also a portable version for running from a flash drive or other media.
Advantages:
- maximum information about the CPU, RAM and chipset;
- works on a computer with any version of Windows;
- undemanding to resources;
- has a simple interface (including in Russian);
- saves reports in text form;
- free software.
Flaws:
- does not display information about state of rigid disk;
- scant report about the video card.
- Does not show the temperature of system components.
GPU-Z
A video card is almost a full-fledged “computer within a computer” with its own subsystems and operating modes. Therefore, developers from TECHPOWERUP have developed a separate program for checking a computer’s video system - GPU-Z. Its basic principles are the same as those of CPU-Z - complete information content and ease of use. It is available online for free to use.
GPU-Z is an indispensable and necessary tool for anyone who is interested in what their computer consists of. The utility will report to you about all parameters of the video core, video memory and power subsystem, right down to the device identification code and BIOS version. In addition, GPU-Z scans the current readings of the temperature and frequency of the chip, the frequency of memory chips, the rotation speed of the cooling fan, the load and voltage on the core, etc. All these values are fixed at the request of the owner in text file or a screenshot.
The utility has earned special recognition for its ability to detect “fake” video cards that do not meet the specifications stated in the BIOS. Near the name of such a card you will notice the status “”, and instead of the vendor’s image, Exclamation point.
Advantages:
- a full report on the characteristics of the video card and its current state;
- simple interface shell;
- saving the report as a document or screenshot;
- ability to send a problem report;
- a large website database for checking your adapter and comparing it with similar cards;
- does not require payment.
Flaws:
- the interface is not fully translated into Russian;
- no built-in stress or performance tests;
HWMonitor
The HWMonitor program from CPUID is used to fully diagnose a computer, determine its operating parameters and operating modes. Unlike the well-known CPU-Z product from the same company, Hardware Monitor provides a comprehensive check of hardware status in real time, but without providing data on characteristics and firmware. The software is available in free and paid PRO versions.
HWMonitor is a single table that displays the devices installed in the system and indicates their voltage and operating frequency, thermal package, cooler rotation speed, temperature at the sensors and the percentage of load (work) or occupied memory. Since the utility does not display firmware data, it is better to use it in conjunction with other products, for example, CPU-Z, for overclocking and tuning. Available readings can be written by the user to a TXT notepad file at any time.
The HWMonitor PRO version is equipped with additional functions for remotely checking computer sensor readings via a smartphone or another PC. It also has a temperature panel that can be folded into a tray for working in the “background” during overclocking and heating control. electronic components.
The program interface is minimalistic and has no additional functions and decorations.
Advantages:
- full PC scan, including video system and hard drive;
- taking all available readings from device sensors;
- extremely simple and intuitive interface;
- remote check computer status from a smartphone (on PRO version);
- free product.
Flaws:
- there is no official localization in Russian;
- characteristics of components are not provided;
- there is no detailed information about the performance of the hard drive according to S.M.A.R.T.;
FurMark
The FurMark utility has been the unspoken “standard” for testing high-performance video cards and integrated computer video systems for many years. It is a set of stress tests to test the graphics subsystem for stability and maximum performance in 3D with support for the OpenGL API. FurMark receives regular updates and is distributed free of charge.
Fur Mark consists of a settings dialog and a test window, in which a complex render of a toroidal-shaped object (or popularly known as a “hairy donut”) rotates. Before starting testing, you must select the graphics level and operating mode. In addition to resolution and anti-aliasing, the user can enable full-screen mode instead of windowed mode. An important point It is worth indicating the time of the test, since keeping the video accelerator under 100% load for a long time can damage the device.
After pressing the button « GPU stress test» A rotating object appears on the screen, drawing which consumes the entire resource of the video card. The upper part shows a graph of changes in the temperature of the video core. Depending on the given parameters the test stops automatically after certain time or manually by the user.
Advantages:
- checking the video card under the maximum permissible load for stability, performance, power consumption;
- several modes of “running” the test;
- simple interface without unnecessary elements;
- includes GPU-Z and GPU Shark utilities;
- free software.
Flaws:
- FurMark puts maximum load on the video adapter, which can lead to failure of the graphics chip, memory chips and other “unpleasant” consequences;
- The interface is not Russified in the official version.
Warning! We do not recommend downloading this program to those who have just begun to get acquainted with the computer structure. FurMark has caused many computer failures due to improper testing and overheating of radio components. Before running Fur Mark, make sure that your video card has a powerful cooling system. We do not recommend running the test for more than 5 minutes.
SpeedFan
A simple and undemanding utility, SpeedFan, will help you monitor key indicators of computer devices, such as cooler rotation speed, voltage, CPU core frequency, component temperature, etc. For almost 20 years, this software has been the favorite tool of many overclocking enthusiasts and ordinary users. SpeedFan can be downloaded for free on the developer's website.
Speed Fan is a universal tool for monitoring computer operation in real time. With its help, you can change the speed of the fan impellers, control the processor frequencies, monitor the readings of temperature sensors and check the voltage at the power supply terminals along the 3.3V, 5V and 12V lines. In addition, it displays a S.M.A.R.T report. about the status of the hard drive. Knowing these indicators, the user can increase heat dissipation or, conversely, reduce noise system unit.
The program interface, in addition to the standard Windows shell, includes many graphs for a visual representation of changes in indicators. There is also a warning function when the set temperature thresholds are exceeded, and the “CPU Usage” scale will tell you about the load on each CPU core.
Advantages:
- takes readings from temperature, voltage, frequency, etc. sensors;
- monitoring the status of the hard drive;
- displays voltages on power supply lines;
- simple interface in Windows 2000 style;
- support for most modern microcontrollers;
- free software with localization.
Flaws:
- there is no representation of the characteristics of RAM, chipset and other equally important information.
AIDA64 Extreme
As the successor to the famous EVEREST, AIDA64 is the most powerful utility today for comprehensive computer diagnostics. In addition to the information stored in the BIOS memory, Aida provides statistical data from the Internet and other useful information regarding the selected device. It contains many different tests to check performance and stability under load, and to compare with other models. AIDA64 Extreme is a shareware product, since the user is given only 30 days for trial use with reduced capabilities.
The usefulness of AIDA64 Extreme is difficult to overestimate, because it is one of the few programs that provides comprehensive information about all the characteristics of each component device, and even each chip on the board. By installing it on your PC, you will learn about all available frequency and temperature indicators, voltage at device pins, cooler rotation speed, power consumption, etc. In addition to the hardware component, Aida 64 displays information about the operating system and installed components (for example, DirectX).
In mode "Test" AIDA64 Extreme tests and compares your configuration with other devices from its own database, thus creating a rating. It is worth noting the possibility of checking network devices and connections via local and global network.
Advantages:
- provides the maximum possible list of characteristics about the computer;
- comparison with other systems from the database;
- takes readings from all available sensors of the system;
- checks RAM for errors;
- there are tests for video cards;
- At the same time simple and beautiful design in the classic Windows style.
Flaws:
- the program is not free - only a 30-day trial version is available.
3DMark
At the moment it is difficult to find a better and more beautiful tester than 3DMark from Futuremark (now UL Benchmark). Its tasks include checking the performance of the connection CPU+ video card. The developer offers several versions of the benchmark: a free Basic Edition with reduced capabilities, an Advanced Edition with a large number of tests and settings, and a Professional Edition (available for commercial use).
The main feature of this tester is the increased requirements for computer hardware, so even on mid-level systems the user may be surprised by the low number of points received. The second “calling card” of 3DMark is the colorful, well-designed three-dimensional scenes that simulate games during testing. Tests are carried out not only with qualitative, but also with quantitative scenes, which put more load on the CPU. 3DMark supports everything modern technologies graphics processing, including DirectX 12 and NVIDIA RTX and DLSS.
At the end of the test, you will see the result in the form of points scored for the system as a whole and for each device separately. You can publish your result and compare it with others in a rating created by other users.
Advantages:
- the benchmark loads the system 100% without causing breakdowns;
- benchmark tester for high-performance systems;
- beautiful 3D models and scenes;
- There is free version 3DMark Basic Edition;
- intuitive interface.
Flaws:
- there is no Russian language in the demo version settings;
PCMark
Another product from the Finnish company Futuremark, aimed at testing the performance of the system as a whole. It differs from 3DMark in its wider coverage of subsystems subject to testing. With its help, the user will determine the capabilities of his PC in video rendering and editing, complex calculations, storing and transferring data from ROM and other tasks. Free Basic and paid Advanced Editions are available for download.
Computer performance analysis follows the same principle as in 3DMark, but now taking into account all the main components of the device. For example, PCMark tests the read and write speed of RAM and permanent memory ( hard HDD or solid state SSD disk), the performance of each processor core, the speed of drawing objects on the screen by a video card. It also runs performance tests while browsing, watching videos, and while talking through VoIP voice clients, as well as time Windows startup. To determine a PC's suitability for gaming, the developers have included some tests from 3DMark here.
At the end of the test run, the user will see the result in points on the screen, by which one can judge the performance of the PC, based on the rating. If problematic slow devices are identified, the tester will inform you about the need to upgrade them.
Advantages:
- a general performance test of the entire computer with explanations of problems;
- condition analysis operating system;
- comparison of the result with the “live” rating of other users;
- very convenient and beautiful interface;
- there is a free version.
Flaws:
- there is no Russian-language interface (in the Basic version).
HWiNFO
A small utility, HWiNFO, is capable of displaying all the main parameters of the computer and its components, as well as monitoring temperature and voltage from device sensors in real time. According to the developers, it is characterized by increased operational stability and high accuracy of measurements of diagnostic parameters. There is no need to pay for the utility; the developer only accepts donations.
The main quality of HWiNFO is its stability on weak systems with outdated versions Windows. This software will run even on Win XP, not to mention modern “tens”. The second advantage is detailed reporting on the state of the PC at the time of testing and the provision of detailed information about its parameters. Easy search for each device is provided hierarchical structure icons with descriptions on the left side of the window. The available data can be easily saved into a test file using the “Save Report” button. In addition to checking the computer, HWiNFO has a subroutine for BIOS updates motherboard and device drivers.
The HWiNFO software interface is designed in the familiar Windows style and is easy to use. At the top of the window there is a panel with icons for the most frequently used functions. The “Program” tab has a large number of settings for driver verification and management modes.
Advantages:
- simplicity and detail of the report;
- convenient control and setting;
- high accuracy of sensor readings;
- updating BIOS and drivers;
- completely free software.
Flaws:
- there are no tests to check system stability and performance.
Conclusion
Among the ten computer diagnostic programs we reviewed, there is no ideal option - each has its own set of pros and cons. However, we can advise making a choice in a given situation for specific tasks set by the user himself.
For a standard and comprehensive computer test, we would choose Speccy, HWMonitor, HWiNFO and PCMark. They provide detailed data on the characteristics and current state of the hardware and operating system, and PCMark will help you load and test your PC for performance without risk.
For more demanding users, overclockers and gamers, AIDA64 Extreme, 3DMark and FurMark are suitable. The first program displays data about the PC at the highest possible level, and the other two are perfect for testing video adapters.
CPU-Z, GPU-Z and SpeedFan will fit any of the groups, but they mostly have similar capabilities to the above options.
If you are interested in such issues as checking the speed of your Internet connection, testing your monitor, or supporting stereo sound with the device's speakers, then our article will help you perform the necessary tests quickly and without installing any software!
Knowing everything about your computer is quite important. Firstly, this allows you to better understand the potential capabilities of your PC, and secondly, you can compare the results of your system with the results of other users.
In order to fully test your PC, you can use special complex utilities, like, and the like. You can find out something about the system in the computer properties, but there are a number of indicators that are easier, faster and more convenient to find out using special online services. These are the ones that will be discussed in this article.
What cannot be tested and why
No matter how powerful modern Internet resources are, the fact that they work only in a browser environment imposes a number of restrictions on them. Specifically, with their help we cannot get direct access to the system and its parameters. Accordingly, there are no online testing services for RAM or video cards, for example.
True, there are several portals that have found how to get around this limitation. They suggest installing a special plug-in client that collects data about your PC, transfers it to the server, where it is processed and presented as a finished result in the browser window. This is not a pure online service, but still. Of similar Russian-language sites, I recommend DriversCloud.com:
After clicking on the “Start Analysis” button, the plugin loader should be automatically downloaded, which when installed takes up a little more than 11 megabytes (if the download has not started, you can download it manually on the “How do I remove a plugin?” page). If everything is already installed, testing will start, the result of which will be something like this summary table:
We will receive generalized information about almost all PC components. However, this is not all the data! To the right of each description module there is a "Plus" button, by clicking which you can select a row additional characteristics in every category.
But that's not all :) As you might guess from the name, DriversCloud also allows for all the main components of your computer! To view the proposed list of updates, click the "Find drivers" button under the table of characteristics of your PC.
In short, the DriversCloud service is quite smart, but, alas, it is not completely independent of third-party software. Completely online using a regular browser, we can only test what concerns multimedia capabilities or network parameters:
- operation of a microphone (requires) and speakers;
- monitor settings (display dimensions, color parameters, brightness, contrast, etc.);
- working with files;
- options network connection(speed, browser used, IP address, etc.).
I offer you everything that I managed to find :).
Internet Speed Test
Probably the first and most logical thing that needs to be checked is the speed of the Internet connection. Let's not break the logic :)
There are quite a few different services for testing Internet speed. Each of them can give different results, so to get more accurate data, I would advise you to double-check the readings on different sites and calculate the average value, which will be as accurate as possible.
Here is a list of the most successful Internet speed testing services:
The essence of all of them is the same: your computer connects to some server, downloads certain test files from there, and then sends them back. Based on how quickly data is received and uploaded, the server calculates the average speed of your Internet connection. The received data is displayed in the form of beautiful pictures or simple text.
From the above list, one of the most accurate and beautiful Internet speed testing services is SpeedTest.net:
A characteristic feature of this service is that before starting testing, you can select any available server in any city on the map! If you don't do this, SpeedTest will choose the one that is closest to your current location, which is calculated by IP address.
To start testing, just click the “Start testing” button and wait until the data is downloaded and sent. By the way, the whole process is animated and you can see the progress of transferring test files. Upon completion of the test, the result will open, which will reflect the ping time, as well as the speed of receiving and transmitting data in megabits per second:
The most informative, in my opinion, is the Internet speed test from Yandex:
There are no decorations here, however, there are a couple of nuances that distinguish the Internetometer from other services. Firstly, the measurement results are displayed not only in bits, but also in bytes, which allows you to quickly assess the real useful speed of downloading data in the form we are familiar with. Secondly, if we scroll down the page, we will see a whole section with various technical and reference information!
The rest of the mentioned services work almost identically. It is worth paying attention to the fact that of them, the fastest is InetZamer.ru, MainSpy.ru allows you to see the dynamics of speed changes at different stages of testing, and 2ip.ru has a number of useful and even entertaining services that you may like.
Monitor testing
When purchasing a monitor, many users do not even think that it can and should be adjusted. We usually evaluate the performance of a monitor based on the criterion: “it shows or it doesn’t show” :) So we’ve had it for years without calibration for colors, brightness, etc. And, by the way, it is recommended to check your monitor settings a couple of times a year!
As in the previous case, I offer you a number of services for testing and correcting the parameters of your display:
Each service allows us to determine:
- Uniform color rendering and absence of dead pixels.
- Screen refresh rate (especially important for CRT displays).
- Image sharpness.
- Display brightness and contrast.
- Correct geometric proportions of the screen.
Before moving on to considering the services themselves, let's define a little the algorithm of our actions. For cathode ray tube displays, you need to carry out all the tests one by one and correct each detected flaw along the way using the on-screen menu called up by buttons on the monitor.
However, LCD monitors generally require fewer tests because they are not as prone to misalignment as their CRT counterparts. First of all, you should pay attention to the uniformity of color rendering when filling the screen with one color. If you find one or more dots of a different color on a plain background, these are “broken” pixels...
Sometimes you can get rid of them by “warming up” the matrix with a dynamically changing image (for example, white noise) for a couple of hours. For spot treatment dead pixels You can use the service JScreenFix.com.
The second common mistake in LCD monitor settings is incorrect setting brightness and contrast. To correct it, they usually use test pictures with gradations of gray up to its lightest tones, turning almost into white. If you see all the gradations, then everything is correct; if not, try changing the brightness and contrast parameters.
I think now it will be easier for you to understand why and how to use the proposed online monitor tests. Therefore, now let's talk a little about each of them. And first on the list is the Monteon.ru service:
This is a Russian-language service that contains the entire set of classic monitor tests. It is better to run all tests in full screen mode, by pressing the F11 button on the keyboard or a special button on the bottom toolbar. For CRT displays, it is advisable to perform all tests. And for LCD, you can selectively check color rendering and brightness/contrast parameters.
Those who like to do everything quickly, as well as cat lovers, will like another Russian-language service from the creators of the online CatLair:
There are not as many tests here as on the previous resource, but all tests contain images of cats on the button icons :). To hide cats and all hint panels you just need to click on the screen. Clicking again will return everything to its place. Naturally, it is better to conduct testing in full screen mode.
The last service on our list is English-language, however, it provides us with a number of very interesting and useful (especially for CRT monitors) tests:
All tests here are divided into three large subgroups: “Color range” (color rendition), “Trailing” (dynamism) and “Homogenuity” (uniformity). Of particular interest is the second section, which allows you to test the display’s ability to dynamically change the position of objects on the screen without distorting their shape. There are settings for background and object colors, as well as movement speed.
The only drawback of the service is that to work on your computer you must have a flash player of at least version 8 installed.
Sound check
It would seem that you can check in sound: it either exists or it doesn’t :) However, knowledgeable people who work with sound or just audiophiles can tell you that there are many tests that allow you to determine the frequency characteristics of sound-reproducing equipment, noise level and other parameters .
For the average user, this whole theory is not particularly important. However, there are also practical cases from real life. For example, you bought headphones, but there are no marks on them, where is the left and where is the right channel... The AudioCheck.net service will help you accurately determine the correct stereo online:
We just need to go to the website, connect the headphones to the computer and press the channel check button (for example, “Left” for left). If you hear sound in the left earphone, it means you have inserted them into your ears correctly, otherwise you will have to swap them :)
The service, alas, is English-language, but knowledgeable people can find many useful things on it. Tests for determining frequency characteristics, and to check dynamic range, and even an online hearing test! A list of all tests can be found on the page https://www.audiocheck.net/soundtestsaudiotesttones_index.php.
Virus check
The last thing we can check online on our computer is files. They are in gigabytes hard drives our PCs and some of them can be quite unsafe! If you downloaded something from the Internet and it does not inspire confidence in you, check it using a recognized online anti-virus scanner VirusTotal.com:
This service allows you to test any type of data up to 128 megabytes in size using more than 50 antivirus engines with the latest databases. All that is required of you is to select the file to be tested on your computer, transfer it for analysis and wait for the results. If your file has already been tested, the results can be almost instantaneous!
A number of other popular services work in a similar way, such as VirusScan.Jotti.org (up to 5 files no more than 50 MB at a time), VirScan.org (up to 20 files no more than 20 MB) or Metascan Online (1 file up to 140 MB). However, Virus Total is the most famous and authoritative. However, it must be said that no one can say 100% whether a file is dangerous. Virus scanners only suggest a threat, but it’s up to you to decide :)
If you want to scan the entire computer, and not just specific files, then there is such an opportunity. True, for this you will have to use Internet Explorer and a special extension to it. However, if this does not bother you, then I bring to your attention ESET Onlie Scanner:
This is a service from the developers of the popular NOD32 antivirus. It allows you to use the real ESET database to identify dangerous software on your computer using special plugin for IE. All you need to do is open the service, click the “Launch ESET Onlie Scanner” button and confirm the installation of the add-on, and then launch it.
However, it is worth saying right away that, alas, you will not be able to cure detected viruses using the service. The scanner only detects their presence and offers to download and install trial version ESET antivirus package Smart Security. However, you receive a List of unsafe files and nothing prevents you from manually deleting everything that you consider necessary!
conclusions
Modern Internet services, as we can see, have reached almost the limit of their capabilities, which are limited only by the operating features of browsers. And some even try to “jump” the established restrictions by using their own online clients and plugins.
Of course, up to the level of full-fledged programs in some cases online services fall short. However, for solving a certain range of problems they are even better than conventional software, since they practically do not depend on the power of your PC and can work on any device that has a browser!
P.S. Permission granted to freely copy and quote this article provided that an open active link to the source is indicated and the authorship of Ruslan Tertyshny is preserved.
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