What should a service technician do first when encountering a system boot issue?

When encountering a system boot issue, the first step for a service technician is to check the power supply and connections. This initial assessment is critical because many boot problems can stem from power issues. A system that does not power on may simply have a loose power cable, a defective power supply, or issues with the electrical outlet it is connected to. By verifying that the power supply is functioning correctly and that all power connections are secure, the technician can rule out these potential problems before proceeding with more time-consuming or complicated troubleshooting steps.

Selecting this approach helps to quickly isolate the issue, ensuring that the technician does not move on to replace hardware components or perform software reinstalls without first confirming that power is reaching the system, which is fundamental for any kind of operation. This methodical approach also helps in reducing unnecessary repairs or interventions, saving both time and resources.