Common Fix for most hardware troubles (computers, printers, etc.)

Problem

Symptoms:

Computer (desktop or laptop) display does not appear on external monitor(s).
Docking station no longer charges laptop.
Computer no longer communicates with printer or other USB connected device, even though they are connected properly.
Computer lost connection to the internet/network.
Computer is acting 'weird' (freezing, crashing, etc.) in general.

Solution 1

Save and close any open files. Then, reboot your computer.

Hopefully, all is well now.

Solution 2

Fluctuations in power can cause all sort of problems with your computer and/or the equipment connected to it. Thus, a reboot may not be good enough.

Power cycling is the process of turning off all connected equipment for a short period of time, and then turning it all back on. But, there is a specific sequence that should be followed.

Please do the following:

Save and close any open files on the computer.
Turn off the computer (laptop or desktop). Do not just reboot; shut it down.
Turn off all the equipment connected to the computer (monitors; printer; docking stations, etc.) using the surge suppressor(s), to which all the equipment should be connected.

NOTE:
If your equipment is not connect to surge suppressor, please connect ITS at ServiceDesk@pomona.edu .
Make sure all the connected equipment is off (no lights on the computer, printer, keyboard, monitor, etc.).
Leave all equipment off at the same time for 1 minute.

Now, turn all the equipment back on, starting with the surge suppressor(s). Turn the computer on last.

Hopefully, all is well now.