Blue screens & boot loops in Stellenbosch: quick checks before you bring it in
Stellenbosch BSOD & boot-loop guide: safe checks (reseat RAM, Safe Mode, SMART), when to stop DIY to protect data, and same/next-day diagnostics.
· Digissential Team · 2 min read
TL;DR: Try one clean power-cycle after unplugging USBs, reseat RAM (if accessible), check Safe Mode, and read SMART if possible. If disks look unhealthy or loops persist, stop DIY—we’ll image first, then fix.
Common causes (and what helps)
| Symptom | Likely cause | Best next step |
|---|---|---|
| BSOD after driver/app install | Driver conflict / bad update | Boot Safe Mode → uninstall last driver/app; pause optional updates |
| Loop with storage thrash (100% disk) | Failing HDD/SSD or file-system errors | Protect data: book imaging & diagnostics |
| Instant shut-off / random codes | RAM seating/faults; PSU on desktops | Reseat/test sticks; if errors persist, bring it in |
| Black screen after logo | GPU/driver or display path | External monitor test; if both screens fail, diagnostics |
| “Automatic Repair” loop | Corrupted OS/updates | We’ll repair or reinstall Windows with backup |
Repeating BSODs with different stop codes often points to storage/RAM instability. Every failed reboot risks data—call it early.
What we do on the bench (data-first)
- Intake & quick tests: power, RAM, SMART, temps, last-boot logs.
- Image first if storage is unstable, then recover from the image.
- Fix path: driver cleanup/tune-up → or clean reinstall with backup → or SSD swap if the drive is failing.
- Report: clear quote and ETA before spend.
Start here → Book a diagnostic
If files matter → Data recovery assessment
Fresh start option → Windows reinstall with backup
Stuck right now? → Remote support session
Prep before you come in (if the PC still turns on)
- Back up key folders to cloud/USB (stop at first error).
- Note the last change (driver/app/Windows update).
- Bring the charger and list of symptoms/BSOD codes.
- Avoid loops—power off if errors continue.
Final word
You don’t need ten reboots to “test.” Do the safe checks above once, then let us protect your data and stabilise the system with a same/next-day plan.
Quick links