How to Use Data Collector Sets

The Performance snap-in includes data collector sets and corresponding reports that perform detailed analysis of different aspects of a computer's configuration and performance.

To use data collector sets and reports, follow these steps:

1. Click Start, right-click Computer, and then select Manage.
2. Expand Performance, expand Data Collector Sets, and then click System.
3. In the middle pane, right-click the data collector set you want to analyze and then click Start. For example, to analyze the computer's hardware, right-click System Diagnostics and then click Start. Windows 7 will begin collecting data.
4. Right-click the data collector set and then click Latest Report. Windows shows the report status while data is being collected (this might take several minutes). After enough data has been collected, the report is displayed.

Examine the report to determine whether any of the causes might be related to the problem you are troubleshooting.