Finding hardware problems in your smartphone. Step-by-step diagnostics of a smartphone and an overview of the main malfunctions of the gadget

Modern smartphones are equipped with a large number of sensors and technologies, and if one of them does not work as it should, the entire impression of the smartphone is spoiled. However, how can you know whether your Android smartphone is working properly or not?

For these purposes, there are several applications that allow users to find out what is wrong with their smartphone and help solve the problem. Even if you do not observe any problems with your Android smartphone, we advise you to check whether it is actually working properly.

1. Google Device Assist

To get started, you need to download the Google Device Assist app from the Google Play Store. If you have a Nexus or Moto smartphone, you will have to download the APK file and install it manually. Google Device Assist does much more than just check your smartphone for possible problems. If you are a beginner, the application will give tips and tricks on how to best use your Android smartphone.

2.Test Your Android

As the name suggests, the application checks your Android smartphone. Test Your Android has a colorful interface and tests almost all smartphone systems, from the touch screen to the on-board compass. You can also open the Information tab to get detailed information about your smartphone.

3. Phone Doctor Plus

The application is a real doctor for your Android smartphone. Phone Doctor Plus analyzes all system parameters to make sure that the smartphone is working correctly. You can check the status of your smartphone's hardware, such as the CPU or battery. The app also provides some good tips on how to properly use your smartphone to maximize battery life.

4. Z – Device Test

The application will provide very detailed information about all the smartphone's sensors, such as the accelerometer or GPS. The application marks with a green tick the sensor that is equipped in the smartphone, and with a red cross if the smartphone does not offer this feature.

5. Fix Dead Pixels

If you notice some pixel issues on your smartphone display, then Fix Dead Pixels app will help you solve them. The app provides different background colors to help you identify dead pixels. Fix Dead Pixels will also quickly check the entire screen and update problematic areas of the screen.

02.11.2017 19:10:00

Detailed testing of the smartphone can be carried out using special diagnostic applications, which are available in the Google Play digital store. For our article, we selected the most convenient and reliable utilities. And the powerful and productive smartphone Fly Cirrus 12 was chosen as a testing platform.

It is worth noting that all applications do not require root rights of the phone, since they only display a report on the status of the device without the ability for the user to make any changes to the operation of the smartphone.

A convenient and intuitive program for diagnosing a smartphone, which is freely available and does not contain annoying advertising. There are 4 functional tabs available for working with the utility:

1. List of parameters. The results of testing the main systems of the smartphone are displayed here.
2. Diagnostics of the operation of all device sensors: from multi-touch to Bluetooth - 30 tests in total.
3. Scanning applications and removing unnecessary programs
4. Data on battery performance, as well as recommendations for routine battery maintenance.

In order to collect all the information about the smartphone’s hardware, you need to pass tests on all sensors in the second tab. For example, to check the operation of the light sensor, you need to hold the gadget with the screen under the light source for a few seconds. And to test the speakers and microphone, you need to increase the volume as much as possible and run the test at low, medium, high and ultra-high frequencies.

How the Android smartphone diagnostic app Phone Doctor Plus works can be seen in our video:

Many users of computers running Windows OS probably remember the AIDA64 program, with which you can get a detailed report on the operation of hardware and software. Some time ago, the developers of the utility made a high-quality Android version for it. The application interface is distinguished by strict minimalism: no drawn buttons, icons or other graphic design. The main window of the program displays a list of smartphone components:

• System
• Display
• Battery
• Android
• Devices
• Temperature
• Sensors
• Applications
• Codecs
• Folders
• System Tabs

Each tab displays a real-time report on the operation of a particular system. So, on the CPU tab you can check the load on the processor at a given time, find out the core architecture, and also at what frequency each core operates.

In the drop-down menu, you can set the update time, adjust the temperature and pressure units, change the font size, and so on. Here, for 118 rubles, the user can disable pop-up advertising.

You can see how the application works on the Fly smartphone in this video:

If you need to diagnose an Android smartphone, the Phone Tester application is a good option. Outwardly, it resembles AIDA64: here, too, the main indicators are displayed in one list, and a detailed report is created at each item. There are no fine settings in the utility. The only change that the user can make on his part is to disable advertising by paying the developer 69 rubles.

An example of how this utility works can be seen here:

In conclusion, it is worth noting that it is difficult to choose the best diagnostic program. Each utility has its own “tricks”. Phone Doctor Plus is suitable for those who prefer to independently conduct detailed tests for each component. AIDA64 will be appreciated by users who understand detailed system reports, but if you need the same functionality, but a cheaper upgrade to the pro version, you should pay attention to Phone Tester .

It is impossible to imagine the life of a modern person without a smartphone. Such gadgets are used for entertainment, for studying, for performing business tasks, for communicating with business partners, relatives and friends. Sometimes phones start to malfunction (they don’t turn on, don’t respond to touches on the screen, turn off on their own, etc.), so it’s useful for the owner to know how to diagnose a smartphone yourself. In this article, we will analyze possible problems and determine ways to solve them.

Step-by-step procedure for diagnosing a smartphone

To understand the cause of problems, you should go through two basic steps:

Primary testing your smartphone for malfunctions. As part of this procedure, the main elements of the phone are diagnosed to determine their performance. These include the display, speakers, communication modules, battery, camera, on and off keys, volume, etc. If, based on the initial diagnosis, the problem was not identified or it cannot be performed (the phone does not turn on, the system does not start, etc.), proceed to the next step.

Full diagnostics of the gadget. It is carried out by disassembling the smartphone, assessing the external condition of its components, and testing using special instruments. After identifying the problem, replace the faulty phone part with a new one. This procedure can only be performed correctly at a service center.

Typical smartphone malfunctions

The gadget does not want to turn on. This problem can appear due to a number of reasons, ranging from a simple battery malfunction to damage to the device’s motherboard. It is also possible that activation may be denied due to errors in the software.

The screen of your mobile device does not work or is broken. There are different types of gadget models. For some, the screen consists of a display and a separate touch panel, for others it is made in the form of a single module. In the first case, you can replace any one component (sensor or display), but in the second you will have to change the entire module.

Malfunction of small components (speakers, microphones, camera, on or off buttons). The replacement process is not particularly difficult if you have the skills to disassemble and assemble electronics. Most components are connected to the board using special contacts.

Mechanical damage to the housing. You can replace it yourself, but you need to do everything carefully so as not to damage the electronic parts.

Software glitches. The phone may work slowly, freeze when turned on, and may not have any functions. In this case, a “reset” to factory settings can help; if the problems persist, you will need to “reflash” the gadget.

The battery discharges too quickly. Most often, the battery has expired and requires replacement. Sometimes the problem can occur due to viruses on the phone, heavy loading of the operating system with applications, games, etc.

Some main smartphone malfunctions You can diagnose and fix it yourself if you have the necessary tools and minimal skills. If they are not there, then it is better not to risk it and take the gadget to a service center, whose specialists will do everything quickly and efficiently.

In our online store you can buy spare parts for almost any popular smartphone model and repair tools. We have cables, screens, batteries, cases and much more in stock. All products are covered by a warranty.

This article is suitable for all brands that produce phones on Android 9/8/7/6: Samsung, HTC, Lenovo, LG, Sony, ZTE, Huawei, Meizu, Fly, Alcatel, Xiaomi, Nokia and others. We are not responsible for your actions.

Programs for checking Android gadgets for errors and problems

Modern mobile devices have many sensors and technologies. If at least one of them functions incorrectly, then the entire impression of the tablet or smartphone is spoiled.

There are applications to check the correct functioning of the Android device. Even if there are no problems with your Android device, it is still worth checking whether it really functions properly.

Google Device Assist

First, you should use the Google Device Assist utility from the Google Play Store. For Moto or Nexus smartphones, you must download and install the apk file manually. Google Device Assist software not only checks the gadget for possible problems. The application gives beginners recommendations and tips on using the device.

Test Your Android

From the name it is clear that the utility tests the device on the Android system. Test Your Android features a colorful interface and the ability to test almost all device systems, from the touch screen to the on-board compass. You can also go to the “Information” section to get detailed information about the gadget.

Phone Doctor Plus

The utility will become a real doctor for your gadget. Phone Doctor Plus analyzes all system parameters. You can check the status of hardware such as the battery or CPU. The utility also gives some good tips on how to properly work with the device in order to increase the battery life.

Device Test

The program displays quite detailed information about GPS and accelerometer. The software marks the sensor equipped in the gadget with a green checkmark, and marks with a red cross if this feature is not provided.

Fix Dead Pixels

If there are problems with pixels on the display of your tablet or smartphone, you can use the Fix Dead Pixels utility to solve them. The program uses different background colors to identify problematic pixels. The utility also updates problematic areas of the screen and quickly checks the entire screen.

Wifi Analyzer

Using the application, you can check the presence and functionality of the Wi-Fi module. A comprehensive test is performed, everything is checked thoroughly. Wifi Analyzer determines the reliability of all components of a given interface on a gadget, their sensitivity, settings, and selectivity in signal selection.

Elixir 2

The utility is suitable for users who are more interested in hardware. Elixir 2 is an entire research laboratory for testing the physical components of the gadget.

Most common mistakes

Low memory

This cannot be called a mistake. This is a limitation of the gadget's capabilities. On old and new devices, internal memory may suddenly run out. The problem can be solved very simply.

When using applications such as VK, Instagram, a cache appears, which they quickly accumulate in large quantities. To solve the problem, follow the instructions:

• Go to “Settings”, select the “Applications” section.
• The applications that take up the largest amount of memory are usually displayed at the top. We click on them.
• Select the “Clear cache” section.

This type of cleaning can free up several gigabytes of space. You can also completely erase your data in the application, but you will have to log in again later.

Due to full memory, errors with different numbers occur. For example, error 919, which means that due to lack of space the application cannot start.

On some gadgets, some applications can be transferred to a memory card. This will free up even more space. This is done in the same section in the settings. It is better to frequently monitor the availability of free space on the device so that it works smoothly and properly.

Wi-Fi Authentication Error

Another very common problem on Android. The cause of the problem rarely lies in the device. It is often caused by a router that is not compatible with your tablet or smartphone. The problem is resolved quickly.

The first method is to verify that the entered password is correct. The authentication process consists of verifying the security key. You need to try to delete the problematic network, and then enter the password again.

If everything is fine with the password, but the Wi-Fi network does not want to connect, then you should check the router settings. It is possible that its data encryption type is older than that used on the Android device, or the gadget does not support some network standard.

This method consists of checking the router settings:

• Launch the browser. Enter “192.168.0.1” or “192.168.1.1” in the address bar.
• In the window that appears, enter your username and password. Often this is admin and admin. If there are other settings, then enter them.
• Now we find the Wi-Fi security settings. There you need to set a mixed encryption type or set the network authentication value to “WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK2 mixed”.

After following the instructions, all problems with Wi-Fi should disappear.

Syntax error

This error means that the file that installs a particular program is incorrect or was not launched correctly. Another failure could have occurred during installation, resulting in a syntax error.

This is quite easy to fix. You should make sure that the downloaded file is in apk format. Files with this format are used as installers on Android. Then we delete this downloaded file and download it again, after which we reinstall it. You can also try downloading the file from another site to remove the error.

loading error

Such errors occur on old gadgets, but on new ones this problem no longer appears. The problem is that the standard download manager is broken, making it difficult to download anything from the Internet.

To fix the error, you need to install a new download manager. ES Explorer is perfect for these purposes. The download manager built into it has good functionality.

Android Keyboard AOSP

This keyboard is not the best. It is also not very well optimized on some firmware, which is why errors occur. Solving them is simple:

• Disable voice input in the keyboard settings.
• We reset the settings, erase application data and cache.
• Download any other keyboard from Google Play Market.

Errors with Google Accounts

Such errors come in two categories: the account does not want to be added or does not want to sync. The first error is gradually becoming a thing of the past, and the second is present on old and new gadgets. You can correct errors using the following instructions:

• We check the stability and quality of the Internet connection. Wi-Fi or mobile network must be functioning normally, otherwise it may be the cause.
• If you have already added an account, but there is no synchronization, you just need to disable it. Then we reboot the gadget and log in again.
• When your account refuses to connect, you should check that your login and password are correct.
• Disable two-step synchronization in your account settings.
• We enable automatic synchronization and information transfer in the background. After this, reboot the device.

Netalpha virus

This is a new problem for Android users. The Netalpha virus makes it difficult to work with the gadget and prevents itself from being removed. The problem is very serious, since there are only two solutions, one of which is very radical:

• We reset the system to factory settings. We'll look at how to do this below.
• If you have root rights, you can download Lucky Partner to remove the ill-fated program.

Android.process.acore

The following reasons for the error are identified:

• Some system program has stopped running.
• Required system files are missing.
• The gadget has several applications at once that perform almost identical functions. They do not synchronize correctly with system applications.

Difficulties in solving a problem depend on the reasons for its occurrence. This can often be solved by deleting all contacts through the device settings. If you synchronize all your contacts with Google before doing this, you won’t lose anything at all.

What is diagnosing cell phone faults? This is a complete check of the functionality of all modules and functions with subsequent identification of faulty ones. Diagnostics can be divided into: primary (preliminary) and detailed. Primary diagnostics allows you to identify faults “on the fly”, i.e. without completely disassembling the phone. For example, malfunctions related to sound (speaker wheezes), image (display is broken), etc. Detailed diagnostics are carried out by disassembling the phone, thoroughly inspecting the board and all functional devices, as well as taking the necessary measurements and replacing faulty components.

Be that as it may, you always need to check the current state of the phone in full detail and immediately, without delay, notify the owners so that later problems do not arise, such as: “before your repair, everything was working there!!!” And then it turns out that the phone was flooded with water and was simply dried out (at best) or sprinkled with sugar/salt and even put on charge. And then they bring it to repair and with a surprised face they say: “What are you doing? - Can't be!" etc. In such cases, it is best to immediately show the condition and appearance of the phone from the inside. Most questions disappear on their own.

Actually, closer to diagnosis

To begin with, I would like to list a few points that you need to know when starting diagnostics:

All modern phones have a nominal operating voltage of 3.6V - 3.7V. At the same time, the same voltage and sometimes battery capacity are also indicated on the battery. But, it should be remembered that a fully charged battery has a voltage of 4.2V - 4.3V. And at a nominal 3.6V, most phones will signal that the battery is low and ask you to charge the battery. Based on this, it becomes clear that a voltage of 3.6V or even a little less is sufficient to turn on and normal operation of the phone (some models work properly with a supply voltage of 3.3V - 3.4V but with a constant low-battery message). Many will switch off on their own. Therefore, for the normal diagnostic and repair process, you should connect a power source of at least 3.7V - 3.8V, and preferably 4.0V - 4.2V.

Most phones can be turned on by powering them from the power supply. It is enough, observing the polarity, to connect the corresponding clamps of the supply wires to the contacts of the connector (connector/terminal block) of the battery and, as usual, start the phone with the power button. And then you can see the following:

A) the phone will turn on normally and function;

B) the phone will turn on and swear like “Invalid battery” or “Unknown battery”, etc.;

C) the phone will turn on, but will ask you to install a SIM card, even if it is installed (true for NOKIA phones);

D) the phone will either turn on for a short time and turn off again or not turn on at all.

In all points except a), the culprit is the missing “3rd” contact of the battery temperature sensor (see above for the description of the battery device). In cases a) and b) you can carry out a full diagnosis of the phone, except for charging, because For these purposes it is necessary to connect the battery accordingly. For point c) you can connect the middle contact of the battery connector to the negative one. After which the phone will start properly from the power button and will safely see the SIM card. For point d) you will have to connect only a charged battery or cheat with the middle contact by selecting a resistor whose resistance value corresponds to the resistance on the electronics board of the standard battery and connect it to the middle contact relative to the “-” terminal.

What is the difference between connecting a phone to a power supply or a standard battery? There is no fundamental difference for a telephone. But you can find out a few things.

Option 1 - turning on the phone from the standard battery:

If the phone turns on normally and shows normal battery charge, but turns off very quickly, especially when registering with the network, then this may be a sign of one of the malfunctions:
The phone battery has lost its capacity and under load its voltage drops below the set level. Consequently, the phone cannot operate at a supply voltage below the permissible one. This battery is considered faulty and must be replaced.
The phone has increased current consumption. This indicates a faulty phone board. This malfunction may occur as a result of exposure of the phone to moisture or shock.

The malfunction can be more accurately determined through detailed diagnostics.