Basic Education Curriculum

TECHNOLOGY AND LIVELIHOOD

EDUCATION

Information and Communications

Technology

Computer Hardware Servicing

Learner’s Material
GOVERNMENT PROPERTY
NOT FOR SALE
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 Department of Education
Republic of the Philippines

Computer Hardware Servicing –Grade 9

Learner’s Material
First Edition, 2013
ISBN: ___________

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Published by the Department of Education

Secretary: Br. Armin A. Luistro FSC
Undersecretary: Dina S.Ocampo, Ph.D.
Assistant Secretary: Lorna Dig Dino, Ph.D.

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Authors: Rosalie P. Lujero and Ronaldo V. Ramilo

Editors: Joemar A. Garraton

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Module 1: PERSONAL ENTREPRENEURIAL COMPETENCIES

Explore your Understanding ………………………………………….… 1
Guide Questions …………………………………………………………. 2
Pre-Assessment …………………………………………………………. 2
Self-Assessment ………………………………………………………… 5
Lesson 1 ……………………………………………………………………. 6
Firm Up ……………………………………………………………………. 8
Deepen …………………………………………………………………... 10
Transfer ………………………………………………………………….. 12
Post-Assessment ………………………………………………………. 14
Feedback ……………………………………………………………….. 16
Module 2: ENVIRONMENT AND MARKET
Explore your Understanding ………………………………………….. 18
Lesson 1: Needs and Wants of People ……………………………….. 19
Lesson 2: Generating Ideas for Business ……………………………. 20
Lesson 3: Selecting the Right Ideas…………………………………… 22
Lesson 4: Environmental Scanning …………………………………… 23
Firm Up ………………………………………………………………….. 24
Deepen ....……………………………………………………………….. 24
Transfer ………………………………………………………………….. 29
Post-Assessment ………………………………………………………. 30
Feedback ………………………………………………………………… 31

Module 3: INSTALL COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND NETWORKS

Introduction ………………………………………………………………… 33

Objectives………………………………………………………………….. 34
Pre- Assessment …………………………………………… 35

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Lesson 1: PLAN AND PREPARE FOR INSTALLATION ………………… 36
1.1 Safety Measures: OHS Policies and Procedures………………… 36
1.2 Understanding Computer System……………………………..…… 46
1.3 Computer Systems, Devices and Peripheral …………..………… 46
1.4 Network…………………………..…………………………..………. 64
1.5 Materials, tools, equipment and testing devices………………….. 70
Lesson 2: INSTALL EQUIPMENT / DEVICES and SYSTEMS ……….… 76
2. 1 Safety Precautions…………………………..…………………….… 76
2.2 System Specification..…………………………………………….…. 80
2.3 Installation of Hardware components and other peripherals…… 84
2.4 Installing Operating System …………………………….……….… 106
2.5 Windows 7 installation ……………………………………….…….. 123
2.6 Basic Computer Configuration Set- up …………………….…….. 136
Lesson 3: CONDUCT TEST ON THE INSTALLED COMPUTER 145
SYSTEM ……………………………………………………………………….
3.1. Testing Installed equipment/devices/system…………………... 145
Summative Test ……………………………………………………………….. 153
Post- Test ………………………………………………………………………. 158
References ……………………………………………………………………… 159
Glossary of Terms.……………………………………………………………… 161
Acronyms ……………………………………………………………………….. 163
Module 4: DIAGNOSE AND TROUBLESHOOT COMPUTER SYSTEM 165

Pre- assessment ……………………………………………………………… 167

Lesson 1: PLAN AND PREPARE FOR DIAGNOSIS OF COMPUTER 169
SYSTEM ……………………………………………………………………….
1.1 Safety Precautions ………………………………………………… 169

1.2 Types of Computer System Error …..…………………………….. 173

1.3 Diagnosing Computer Systems …………………..……….... 175

Lesson 2: DIAGNOSE AND CONFIGURE COMPUTER SYSTEMS 180

AND NETWORKS………………………………………………………………

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 2.1 Safety Precautions ………………………….………………….…. 180
2.2 Basic Concepts of Electricity……………………………………… 181
2.3 Techniques for Testing Computer System………………………. 188
2.4 Tools for Testing Computer System..……………………………. 200
2.5 Troubleshooting Computer System Network …………………... 204
2.6 Computer System and Network Configurations ……………….. 211

Lesson 3: INSPECT AND TEST THE CONFIGURED COMPUTER SYSTEMS

AND NETWORKS …………………………………………………………………….. 221

3.1 General Safety Tips and Reminders ……………………………… 221

3.2 Replacing Different Components …………………………………. 226
3.3 Upgrading your Computer Components …………………………. 228
3.3 Basic Network Errors ……………………………………………….. 233
3.4 Award BOS / CMOS Setup ………………………………………… 243

Lesson 4: TEST SYSTEMS AND NETWORKS………………………………….. 253

4.1 Testing Computer System …………………………………….…… 253

4.2 Error Beep Codes ………………………………………….………. 257
Post Assessment ………………………………………………………………. 266
Summative Test ………………………………………………………….……. 268
References …………………………………………………………………….. 273
Glossary ……………………………………………………………………….. 275

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 Technology and Livelihood Education
Entrepreneurship

Module 1: Personal Entrepreneurial Competencies

Have you ever thought about running your own business? Entrepreneurship
has brought great success to some people, but it's not a career path for all. Do
you think you can handle the stress and hard work that go with running a small
business enterprise? The key to success in a small business enterprise is your
entrepreneurial ability to produce the desired results. Before embarking on your
first business, it's worth spending some time evaluating your own preparedness
for entrepreneurship. Try to examine your own personality and compare it with
the Personal Entrepreneurial Competencies (PECs) of a successful
entrepreneur. Ask yourself if you are ready to enter into the world of business. If
your answer is yes, consider this reminder:“Successful entrepreneurs
continuously develop and improve their PECs.”

EXPLORE Your Understanding

Essential Question

- How can one ensure entrepreneurial success?

1
 Content Standard

- The learner demonstrates understanding of Personal

Entrepreneurial Competencies (PECs)

Performance Standard

- The learner prepares an activity plan that addresses his/her

development areas based on his/her PECs and improves further
his/her areas of strength.
Guide Questions:

1. Why is there a need to assess one’s personal characteristics, attributes,

lifestyles, skills and traits?

2. What are the personal entrepreneurial competencies of a successful

entrepreneur?

3. Why is it necessary to compare one’s personal characteristics, attributes,

lifestyles, skills and traits with the personal entrepreneurial competencies
of a successful entrepreneur?

4. How do you relate your PECs to the PECs of a successful entrepreneur?

5. Based on the data that you have gathered from the interview with the
successfulentrepreneur in your community, how do you develop your
PECs?

6. Can you prepare an action plan that addresses your areas of development
and strength based on your PECs?

7. How does your action plan help sustain your strong areas and / or address
your development areas based on your PECs?

Hello there! Are you ready to assess yourself to become a

successful entrepreneur in the future? As honestly as you can,
please answer the pre-assessment below.

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Pre- Assessment

A. Matching Type

Directions: Column A lists the characteristics of a successful entrepreneur.

Draw a line from each of the items in Column A that connectsto
each of the correct definition of terms listed in Column B.

Column A Column B

1. Hardworking a. Ability to set realistic targets

b. Interest in money generation
2. Self-Confident c. To succeed, one must believe in
one’s self
3. Profit-Oriented
d. Working diligently and industriously
4. Goal-Oriented e. Being able to heed the advice of
others
5. Persistent f. Obtaining useful comments and
advice from others
6. Responds to feedback g. Being patient as one strives to
achieve the goal
7. Willing to listen
h. Ability to take measures or
8. Committed calculated threats
i. Being honest, fair, and trustworthy
9. Reliable and has j. A major characteristic that is a
priority in the entrepreneur’s life
integrity

10. Risk-Taker

Are you done? This time you will do another set of pre- assessment
which could giveyou a better understanding of what this module
isall about. Are you ready? Let’s begin!

3
 Multiple Choice.

Directions:Read and study the situation that describes entrepreneurial

characteristics or attributes. Answer the question by writing the letter of your
choice in your assignment notebook or on the answer sheet provided.

Ms. Juliana Frances Rose opens up her own retail business. She knows that
her personal entrepreneurial characteristics are insufficient to ensure the
successful operationalization of a business that she has in mind. Your
answers to the questions below will help in developing her PECs.

1. What PECs must she possessif there are customers who complain about the
quality of her product?
a. Patience
b. Hardwork
c. Versatility
d. All of the above
2. Which of the following is NOT considered as a characteristic of an
entrepreneur?
a. Copes with failure
b. Dependent
c. Persistent
d. Opportunity seeker
3. If she wants to ensure a profitable business operation, what characteristic
will she maintain?
a. Commited
b. Goal oriented
c. Futuristic
d. Opportunity seeker
4. Ms. Juliana follows the advice of a friend to be flexible especially if she
intends to open a retail business. What PECs has been demonstrated by
Mrs.Pakingan?
a. Self- Confidence
b. Reliable and integrity

4
 c. Open to feedback
d. Oppenes to Persistence
5. She tells Rio, her best friend that she has a strong will and does not give up
finding a solution to a business problem. What PECs has been
demonstrated by Mrs. Pakingan?
a. Hard work
b. Persistence
c. Self-Confidence
d. Risk- Taking

This timeevaluate your own personal entrepreneurial

characteristicsto determine whether you too, can become an
entrepreneur. If you are ready, you may begin!

C. Self- Assessment

Directions:Below is a list of Personal Entrepreneurial Competencies(PECs) of a

successful entrepreneur. Put a checkmark in the 2nd column that
indicates your strong PECs. The check markin the 3rd column are
those PECs that need to be developed.

My Personal Entrepreneurial Competencies

Personal Entrepreneurial
Competencies of an
Entrepreneur Strength Need to be Developed

Hardworking
Self-Confident
Builds for the future
Profit-Oriented
Goal-Oriented
Persistent
Copes with failure

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Responds to feedback

Demonstrates initiative
Willing to listen
Sets own standards
Copes with uncertainty
Committed
Builds on strengths
Reliable and has integrity
Risk-Taker

Did you enjoy examining your PECs? You can become

asuccessful entrepreneur someday. Please don’t feel badly
when you discover that some of these are still to be
developed. Continue your exploration to find answers to
how to improve on these underdeveloped PECs.

Lesson1.Important Entrepreneurial Traits

The following are the fundamental characteristics of an entrepreneur:

1. Hard working: If you are determined to run your own business, you must
concentrate on your work either as a producer or a seller. The success of
your business depends on how much time and effort you will spend on it.
2. Self- Confident: You must have a strong faith in your ability despite the
problems that you will encounter along the way.
3. Future-Oriented: Once you enter in a line of business, you must
understand that you are in a non-stop contract as an entrepreneur. It may
take several years to developa business to a reasonable standard. The
goal for most successful business people is to build a secure job and
ensure a stable income for themselves based on their own ability.

6
4. Profit-Oriented: When you enter the world of business, you are
obviously looking for what you know will be your bread and butter,not only
for you, but also for your family. Therefore, you must see to it that the
business can generate enough income. Another plan of action is to
expand your own business through the use of your generated income.
5. Goal-Oriented: An entrepreneur is forward looking. Youneed advanced
preparation for your business. You set along-term goal for the activities
that are needed, an extensive preparation for the production process and
procedures that you need to go through to acquire human and non-human
resources. Everything in your business will have to be set clearly,
organized, and planned depending on the goal you want to achieve.
6. Persistent: Differences in opinion and judgment may vary. Your
opponent can be part of the rejection about what you intend to do for your
endeavor. As an entrepreneur, you must be firm, strong-willed, and be
able to stick to or follow your own belief.
7. Copes with Failure: “Learn from mistakes”. As an entrepreneur, you
must learn how to deal with the frustrations and failures.Instead, turn
these into productive learning experiences.
8. Responds to Feedback or Is open to Feedback: You must be
concerned about knowing how well you are doing and keep track of your
performance. You must obtain useful feedback and advice from other
people.
9. Takesthe Initiative: Asuccessful entrepreneur takes the initiative. You
must put yourself in a position where you personally are responsible for
the failure orsuccess of your business.
10. Willing to Listen: Take time to listen to the advice, suggestions, and
recommendations of fellow entrepreneurs. These will help your business
grow.
11. SetsOwn Standards:This involves developing and using logical, step-by-
step plans to reach the goals, or offering evaluation alternatives,
monitoring progress, and switching to successful strategies for the goal

7
 you want to achieve. To be a successful entrepreneur you must take into
consideration that sales and production depend on your own standards.
12. Copes with Uncertainty:Pursue your vision to be a
successfulentrepreneur, you should know how to handle unusual events
that may happen in the business which include problems in managing the
workers, problems on the delivery of goods and services, and the
problems on demand and production.You must be patient in dealing with
these uncertainties.
13. Committed:You should know thatin your business,personal needs,
attachment to your friends, families and relatives are set aside.You must
separate the money for your business from the amount that you need to
spend for personal obligations and lifestyle.
14. Builds on Strengths:Successful business people base their work on
strengths. Use your manual skills, knowledge in creating products or
services, knowledge in trade and industry, ability to make and use a wide
network of contacts to build your business.
15. Reliable and has Integrity:As an entrepreneur, to make a wide
network…you must build a good reputation, possess the courage to do the
right thing, do what you say, walk your talk, be loyal, and be fair in dealing
with subordinates and costumers.
16. Risk-Taker: Risk sometimes cannot be anticipated. When misfortunes
happen, consider these as challenges and work them out and set good
alternatives. Risks may result in loss of your business or even
bankruptcy.

8
Activity 1: Assessing the PECs of a Practitioner

Direction:Refer from Activity 2 (Aligning ones PECs) on page 10 to perform the

following tasks:

1. select the appropriate characteristics and traits which you feel best
describe a successful practitioner of contact center servicing in your town.
Write down all the descriptions on the second column;
2. afterhaving completed the list in column two, think of your personal
assessment of a successful practitioner by reflecting it on the third column.
This assessment would give you a good idea of significant characteristics
and traits that a successful practitioner must possess.

Practitioner Assessment

-
-
Characteristics -
-
-
-
-
Traits -
-
-

Activity 2: Aligning one’s PECs

Directions: Choose from the list below the characteristics and traits that best
describe your own personal entrepreneurial characteristics. Find
ways to align them according to the personal entrepreneurial
characteristics of an entrepreneur which were discussed earlier.
Write your answers in the activity sheet provided.

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Creative Resourceful Persistent Organized Independent

Confident Ris-Taker Observant Competent Trustworthy

Optimistic Passionate Flexible Sensitive Committed

Dynamic Efficient Hardworking Decision-Maker Reliable

Knowledgeable Persevering Decisive Strong–Minded Courteous

Try to design a concept map that indicates your traits,

characteristics’ and skills that you need topossess in order to
become a successful entrepreneur.

My PECs

Things to do to align with PECs of a

My PECs My simple definition
successful entrepreneur/practitioner
1. Creative
2. Organized
3. Competent
4. Observant

Activity 3.My PECs that need to be further improved

Directions:At the junction in the street are arrows where positive and negative
characteristics and traits are written. Pick out the positive PECs
thatare already strong in you, and write them down on the blank
arrows on the left side, “right way”. PECs written on the arrows at
the right side arethe weak characteristics that need to be further
improved, “road to improvement.”

10
 “road to
improvement”

Right Way Road to

Improvement

Lesson 1. Strengthening your Identified PECs

Here are your guides on how to strengthen your own PECs.

1. React positively to criticisms and open to feedback.

2. Always demonstrate positive attitude to achieve a desired goal.
3. Always project a strong and well-balanced behavior.
4. Always exercise an assertive style in your work environment.
5. Avoid being too passive and too aggressive.
6. Don’t let anyone worsen your business life.

11
 7. Prioritize your business goal rather than personal goal in order to become a
successful entrepreneur.
8. Acquire specific skills for creating and maintaining a conducivework
environment.
9. Be responsible in everything you do in your business.
10. Always observe business ethics in putting up a business.

Hello! I’m here once again reminding you whether you have
achieved a certain point that you could honestly tell that you are
already successful in strengthening your own PECs.Let’ ssee…

Activity 1: My techniques to strengthen PECs

Directions: From the given chart below, write at leastsix techniques that would
allow youto strengthen your own PECs. Write the PECs that you feel
that you still need to focus on to strengthen these.

Example: Self-confidence

. .
Self-
confidence

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Preparation of an Action Plan

Culminating Activity

Directions: Examine yourself as an entrepreneur / business person once

again. Make a short list of PECs that you need to strengthen. From this activity,
prepare an action plan that requires further development.You may opt to follow
the suggested format below. You may improve or change itfor so long as it suits
your own plan of action.

Sample Action Plan

Specific Purpose Statement: ( Your vision of your future)

Ex. Developing self-confidence in retail business.

Focus Current Actions Time

Goal Measures Reward/
Area Situation Required Frame
of Success Recognition
My PECs I need to - To Achieve -Selling -During -Earns
develop my exercise 100% finished culminating expected
undefined my own completion of products activities income
characteris- PECs development derived from -After -Outstanding
tics need for during of my own culminating learning performance in
my retail selling and PECs through activities in the selling and
business. producing selling and any of chosen principles, promoting
such as: products/ production of career. theories, products and
_________ services products, -Participate processes of services
__________ -To become proper manner in skills any chosen
__________ proficient in when dealing competition business /
__________ my chosen with people. sponsored by entreprise
______ skill. the NGO and
GO

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Post-Assessment

Answer the post assessment questions below to determine whether

there is significant increase in your understanding of PECs. The
feedback to this post assessment is appended on page 16. Good
Luck!

A. Matching Type

Directions: Column A lists the characteristics of a successful entrepreneur.

Draw a line from the items in Column A that connects the correct definition of
terms listed in Column B.

Column A Column B

1. Hardworking a. Ability to set realistic targets

b. Interest in money generation
2. Self-Confident c. To succeed, one must believe in one’s
self
3. Profit-Oriented
d. Working diligently and industriously
4. Goal-Oriented e. Being able to heed the advice of others
f. Obtaining useful comments and advice
5. Persistent from others
g. Being patient as one strives to achieve
6. Responds to feedback the goal
h. Ability to take measures or calculated
7. Willing to listen
threats
8. Committed i. Being honest, fair, and trustworthy
j. A major characteristic that is a priority in
9. Reliable and has the entrepreneur’s life

integrity

10. Risk-Taker

14
B. Multiple Choice.

Directions: Read and study the situation that describes entrepreneurial

characteristics or attributes. Answer the question by writing the
letter of your choice in your assignment notebook or on the
answer sheet provided.

Ms. Gillian Myles opens up her own retail business. She knows that her
personal entrepreneurial characteristics are insufficient to ensure the
successful operationalization of a business that she has in mind. Your
answers to the questions below will help in developing her PECs.

1. What PECs must she possess if there are customers who complain about
the quality of her product?
a. Patience
b. Hardwork
c. Versatility
d. All of the above
2. Which of the following is NOT considered as a characteristic of an
entrepreneur?
a. Copes with failure
b. Dependent
c. Persistent
d. Opportunity seeker
3. If she wants to ensure a profitable business operation, what characteristic
will she maintain?
a. Commited
b. Goal oriented
c. Futuristic
d. Opportunity seeker
4. Ms. Gillianfollows the advice of a friend to be flexible especially if she intends
to open a retail business. What PECs has been demonstrated by Mrs.
Magno?
a. Self- Confidence

15
 b. Reliable and integrity
c. Open to feedback
d. Oppenes to Persistence
5. She tells Mary, her best friend that she has a strong will and does not give
up finding a solution to a business problem. What PECs has been
demonstrated by Mrs. Magno?
a. Hard work
b. Persistence
c. Self-Confidence
d. Risk-Taking
Feedback

Pre-assessment/ Post- assessment

A. Matching Type

1.d 6. f

2.c 7. e

3.b 8. j

4.a 9. i

5.g 10. h

B. Multiple Choice

1. a

2.b

3.d

4. c

5. b

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 Technology and Livelihood Education
Entrepreneurship

Module 2: Environment and Market

One of your greatest dreams in life is to become a successful

entrepreneur. As a person, you are capable of developing your character and
personality and how to respond to some business challenges and opportunities.
You can make things happen by identifying the opportunities around you. You
may ask yourself these questions: What do people need? What products and
services are available in the market today? Can they be improved? How are
they made or delivered? Can things be done better? cheaper? faster? cleaner?
Can a product which is used for a specific purpose be also used for some other
purposes?

You slowly find answers to these questions as you decide to do the first
step in launching a business enterprise. Be cautious however, that you should
develop a habit of identifying opportunities around you. Only then will you find
the activity both exciting and easy.

EXPLORE your Understanding

Essential Question
- How does one select an entrepreneurial activity?

17
 Content Standard
- The learner demonstrates understanding of environment and
market that relates with the career choice.
Performance Standard
- The learner formulates a business idea based on the analysis
of the environment and market

Guide Questions:

1. How does one determine the product to be produced or services to be

offered and delivered to the target market or customers in a particular
community?
2. How does one select an entrepreneurial activity?
3. How can one respond effectively to a business enterprise?

Hello there! Are you ready to assess your readiness to generate

potential business ideas? Let’s try by answering the succeeding
pre-assessment.

Pre-assessment

1. The following are examples of peoples’ basic needs, except:

a. Recreation
b. Clothing
c. Shelter
d. Food

2. Which of the following should be considered first by a prospective

entrepreneur in choosing the right location for his/her store?

a. Types of merchandise
b. The access of the target customers
c. The attractiveness of the store layout
d. The prevailing prices of goods in the area

18
 3. Thong plans to put a “digi-print” studio in their locality. Which of the
following will help him determine a successfulplan for setting up of his
business?
a. Survey of consumer associations
b. Checking for similar business to avoid competition
c. Getting feedback on the quality of service
d. Conducting a SWOT analysis
4. Caesar studies the population in his immediate community. He is doing
this to –
a. identify his would-be “suki.”
b. Predict who his biggest buyer.
c. select his favorite would be costumers.
d. determine whom to sell his product or service.
5. When an entrepreneur improves and alters products to make it more
appealing to target consumers, he/she is doing an_____ of the product.
a. alteration
b. invention
c. innovation
d. improvisation

Lesson 1: Needs and Wants of People

Everyone has his or her own needs and wants. However, people have
different concepts of needs and wants. Needs in business are important things
that every individual cannot do without in a society. These include:

1. Basic commodities for consumption

2. Clothing and other personal belongings
3. Shelter, sanitation, and health
4. Education and relaxation

Basic needs are essential to every individual so he/she may be able to

live with dignity and pride in the community of people. These needs can
obviously help you generate business ideas.

19
 Wants are desires, luxury, and extravagance that signify wealth and an
expensive way of living. Wants or desires are considered above all the basic
necessities of life. Some examples are the eagerness or the passion of every
individual which are non- basic needs like: fashion accessories, shoes, clothes;
travelling around the world; eating in an exclusive restaurant; watching movies,
concerts, plays; having luxurious cars; wearing expensive jewelry, perfume;
living in impressive homes; and others.

Needs and wants of people are the basic indicators of the kind of
business that you may engage in because it can serve as the measure of your
success. Some other good points that you might consider in business
undertakings are the kind of people, their needs, wants, lifestyle, culture and
tradition, and social orientation that they have.

Lesson 2: Generating Ideas for Business

Here are some ways by which you may generate possible ideas for business.

1. Examine the existing goods and services. Are you satisfied with the
product? What do other people who use the product say about it? How
can it be improved? There are many ways of improving a product from
the way it is made to the way it is packed and sold? You can also
improve the materials used in crafting the product. In addition, you
introduce new ways of using the product, making it more useful and
adaptable to the customers’ many needs. When you are improving the
product or enhancing it, you are making an innovation. You can also
make an invention by introducing an entirely new product to replace the
old one.

Business ideas may also be generated by examining what goods and

services are sold outside by the community. Very often, these products
are sold in a form that can still be enhanced or improved.

2. Examine the present and future needs. Look at and listen to what the
customers, institution, and communities are missing in terms of goods
and services. Sometimes, these needs are already obvious and felt at
the moment. Other needs are not that obvious because they can only
be felt in the future, in the event of certain developments in the

20
 community. For example, a town will have its electrification facility in the
next six months. Only by that time will the entrepreneur think of
electrically- powered or generated business such as a photocopier,
computer service, digital printing, etc.

3. Examine how the needs are being satisfied. Needs for the products
and services are referred to as market demand. To satisfy these needs
is to supply the products and services that meet the demands of the
market. The term market refers to whoever will use or buy the products
or service, and these may be people or institutions such as other
businesses, establishments, organizations, or government agencies.

There is a very good business opportunity when there is absolutely no

supply to a pressing market demand.

Businesses or industries in the locality also have needs for goods and
services. Their needs for raw materials, maintenance, and other
services such as selling and distribution are good sources of ideas for
business.

4. Examine the available resources around you. Observe what

materials or skills are available in abundance in your area. A business
can be started out of available raw materials by selling them in raw form
and by processing and manufacturing them into finished products. For
example, in a copra-producing town, there will be many coconut husks
and shells available as “waste” products. These can be collected and
made into coco rags/doormat and charcoal bricks and sold profitably
outside the community.

A group of people in your neighborhood may have some special skills

that can be harnessed for business. For example, women in the
Mountain Province possess loom weaving skills that have been passed
on from one generation to the next generation. Some communities there
set up weaving businesses to produce blankets, as well as decorative
items and various souvenir items for sale to tourists and lowland
communities.

Business ideas can come from your own skills. The work and
experience you may have in agricultural arts, industrial arts, home
economics, and ICT classes will provide you with business opportunities

21
 to acquire the needed skills which will earn for you extra income, should
you decide to engage in income-generating activities. With your skills,
you may also tinker around with various things in your spare time. Many
products were invented this way.

5. Read magazines, news articles, and other publications on new

products and techniques or advances in technology. You can pick
up new business ideas from Newsweek, Reader’s Digest, Business
Magazines, Go Negosyo, KAB materials, Small- industry Journal. The
Internet serves as a library where you may browse and surf on possible
businesses. It will also guide you on how to put the right product in the
right place, at the right price, at the right time.

Listing of possible businesses to set up in an area may also be available

from banks or local non-government organizations.

Lesson 3: Selecting the Right Idea

Once you have embarked on identifying the business

opportunities, you will eventually see that there are many possibilities
that are available for you. It is very unlikely that you will have enough
resources to pursue all of them at once. Which one will you choose?

You have to select the most promising one from amonga hundred
and one ideas. It will be good to do this in stages. In the first stage, you
screen your ideas to narrow them down to about five choices. In the
next stage, trim down the five choices to two options. In the final stage,
choose between the two and decide which business idea worth
pursuing.

In screening your ideas, examine each one in terms of the

following factors:

1. How much capital is needed to put up the business?

2. How big is the demand for the product? Do many people need this
product and will continue to need it for a long time?
3. How is the demand met? Who are processing the products to meet
the need (competition or demand)? How much of the need is now
being met (supply)?
4. Do you have the background and experience needed to run this
particular business?

22
5. Will the business be legal, not going against any existing or foreseeable
government regulation?
6. Is the business in line with your interest and expertise?

Your answers to these questions will be helpful in screening which ones

from among your many ideas are worth examining further and worth pursuing.

Lesson 4: Environmental Scanning

There is a need to conduct environmental scanning to identify the needs

and wants of people, the niche for your business mission, and to give attention
to trends and issues. This may also serve as an evaluation of the type of the
entrepreneurial activity appropriate in the community.

Environmental scanning is defined as a process of gathering, analyzing,

and dispensing information for tactical or strategic purposes. The
environmental scanning process entails obtaining both factual and subjective
information on the business environments in which a company is operating.

External Environment in the community can be viewed according to its

technological, political, legal, environmental, economic, and social aspects. For
example, in the past, people in the community used personal computers but the
transmission of development in terms of technology was interrupted because
people were not satisfied with what they had. They still look for the changes in
their life and corresponding changes in their environment.

As a future entrepreneur, you must be well-versed in this kind of

advancement and progression of your environment, particularly in technology,
so as to secure the success of your future business. Always think of something
new, something novel, authentic; reinvent the existing ones; and create your
new version of goods/products, and services. For instance, your own hair
straightening is herbal, while in the other salons it is made of synthetic
chemicals.

23
 This kind of changes being made will affect the existing principles in
business and industries that can be easily adapted to the changes in producing
the products/services to meet the needs and wants of people in the community.

In generating business idea, you should first identify what type of

business is suited to your business idea. You should analyze and scan the
potential environment, study the marketing practices and strategies of your
competitors, analyze the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and the
Threats in your environment to ensure that the products/goods and services
you are planning to offer will be patronized within the easy reach by your target
markets/consumers.
Bear in mind these simple rules for successful SWOT analysis.
1. Be realistic about the strengths and weaknesses of your business when
conducting SWOT analysis.
2. SWOT analysis should distinguish between where your business is
today, and where it could be in how far in the future.
3. SWOT should always be specific. Avoid grey areas.
4. Always apply SWOT in relation to your competition, i.e., better than or
worse than your competition.
5. Keep your SWOT short and simple. Avoid complexity and over analysis
6. SWOT is subjective.

People keep on searching for new things, new trends, and new issues.
For these reasons, an entrepreneur hurriedly responds to these needs and
wants of people.
As generations come and go, another set of new trends will come or will
exist. In order to adapt to the rapid changes in the business environment, the
existing industries need to improve their products and services. But how can
you generate business ideas with those strong competitors? There are three

24
main sets of decisions that you need to make-what to produce, how to produce,
and how to share or sell out the product to the market.

Activity 1Mini-survey

Directions: Conduct a mini-survey in your immediate community.

Gather pertinent data on population across age brackets as suggested in
the matrix below. Opposite each age group, indicate their probable
needs and wants.

Age Bracket Population Needs Wants

Example: 35 Toys, coloring Wooden toys, glossy
books, pajamas coloring books, etc.
5 and below fashionable pajamas
6- 10 years old
11-15 years old
16-20 years old
21-25 years old
26-35 years old
35-45 years old
46-55 years old
56-65 years old
66 and above

Activity 2 Screening business ideas

Directions: After filling out the chart above, try to list down all the
probable business opportunities which you may wish to venture in.
Remember to consider the ideas and suggestions discussed in Lesson
3. Use the suggested matrix below to indicate your choice. Write your
answers in your notebook.

25
Example: Selling wooden toys

Positive Factors Negative Factors

Strengths Opportunities Weaknesses Threats

Activity 3: Survey Questionnaire to Determine Potential Costumers

Direction: As a group, create/craft a survey questionnaire to determine a

potential customer. This survey form should include the profile of the
potential customers, their needs, wants, lifestyles, culture and tradition
and etc. Questions should be focused on: customers view about the
product and determining their level of satisfaction on the services being
offered.

Administer the survey questionnaire to generate data on your

potential customers.

Below is a sample Survey Questionnaire where you can refer

from. Feel free to revise, add and/or alter items/questions being asked to
make it fit to the target customers.

Sample Survey Questionnaire

I – Personal Profile

a. Name (optional):
b. Age:
c. Sex:
d. Address:
e. Monthly Income:

II – Product /Services Satisfaction:

1. How do I want the contact center services rendered?

_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

26
 2. How much would you prefer to pay for services?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

3. What kind of innovation would you like to be integrated in these

services?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

4. What else do you want to be included in these types of services?

_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________

You have experienced creating/crafting a survey questionnaire to

identify potential customers. This time, you are going to create/craft
a survey questionnaire to determine your potential competitor.

Activity 4: Survey Questionnaire to Determine Potential Competitors

Direction: As part of a group in your class, create/craft a survey questionnaire

to determine a potential competitor. This survey questionnaire should include
the profile of the potential competitor, the products and services being offered,
their manner of delivery, and the innovations that are integrated in selling these
products or services.

Administer the survey questionnaire to generate data on your potential

competitor.

Below is a sample Survey Questionnaire where you can refer from. Feel
free to revise, add and/or alter items/questions being asked to make it fit to the
target competitor.

Sample Survey Questionnaire to Determine the Potential Competitor

I – Personal and Business Profile

a. Name (optional):
b. Age:

27
 c. Sex:
d. Monthly Income:
e. Name of Business Establishment:
f. Number of years in business:
g. Number of Employees/workers:
h. Business Address:

II – Sample Guide Questions to Identify Potential Competitors:

Direction: Utilize the succeeding guide questions during a focused group

discussion to identify potential competitor.

1. What are the business establishments in your community which is

related to your proposed business?
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

2. Who are their common clients, and how do they serve them?
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

3. What are innovations/best practices employed by your potential

competitor?
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

4. What are the raw materials and other resources being utilized by your
potential competitors?
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

5. How do your potential competitors procure their resources? Manner of

payment?
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

28
 Now that, you have all the information, are you ready to test your ability
to generate your own business idea? If your answer is yes, start studying the
sample vicinity map of a community with a population of two thousand people.
A new housing project will be constructed adjacent to DaangHari St.close to
Old Molino St., its main road. This housing project targets the homeowners
who are young couples with two kids.

In this activity, you need to answer the questions that may lead to the
generation of a probable business. Your answers to these questions will serve
as the bases in formulating your own business ideas.

1. Who do you think are your target consumers/markets?

2. Where is the most ideal location to situate your business?
3. Which products or services would appeal to your target
consumers/markets?
4. Can you say that you have seized the most feasible business
opportunity?

29
Post-assessment

1. The following are examples of peoples’ basic needs, except:

a. Recreation
b. Clothing
c. Shelter
d. Food
2. Which of the following should be considered first by a prospective
entrepreneur in choosing the right location for his/her store?
a. Types of merchandise
b. The access of the target customers
c. The attractiveness of the store layout
d. The prevailing prices of goods in the area
3. Salie plans to put a “digi-print” studio in their locality. Which of the
following will help her determine her plan for success in setting up her
business?
a. Survey of consumer associations
b. Checking for similar business to avoid competition
c. Getting feedback on the quality of service
d. Conducting a SWOT analysis
4. Julius Lorenzo Louise studies the population in his immediate
community. He is doing this to –
a. identify his would-be “suki.”
b. predicting his biggest buyer would be.
c. select his favorite costumers.
d. determine whom to sell his product or service.
5. When an entrepreneur improves and alters products to make it more
appealing to target consumers, he/she is doing an _____ of the product.
a. alteration
b. invention
c. innovation
d. improvisation

30
Feedback

Pre-assessment and Post assessment

1. a
2. b
3. d
4. c
5. b

31
 richardrrr.blogspot.com

MODULE 3:
INSTALL COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND
NETWORKS

Content Standard Performance Standard

The learner demonstrates The learner independently provides

understanding of basic concepts, quality and marketable service in
underlying theories and core
computer hardware servicing in terms
competencies in computer
systems and networks. of computer systems and networks
installation and diagnose and trouble
shoot computer systems as
prescribed in the TESDA Training
Regulation.

Number of Sessions (Time Allotment): 60 Hours (2 Quarters)

32
 Welcome to the next level of your modular training in Computer
Hardware Servicing (CHS) under the Information and Communications
Technology (ICT) Course. In this module you will have a great deal of
understanding of Installing Computer Systems and Networks. At the end of
this module you will be able to apply the knowledge and skills on installing
computer hardware, operating system, software components and networks.
Those skills are essential for you to pass the National Certification II in
Computer Hardware Servicing.

In this module, topics will be introduced progressively lesson by lesson

for easy understanding. After carefully answering the diagnostic assessment,
reading all the lessons, answering all the guide questions, masterfully
performing all the activities, showing evidences of learning and finally
answering the summative test, then you will have a considerable knowledge
and skills in installing computer systems and networks essential to be
successful in computer hardware servicing as one of the career option in ICT.

Reminder! Just follow the instructions given in this module. Now let us
start exploring new things in this module.

In this module, there will be three (3) major topics that you will
encounter: (1) plan and prepare for installation; (2) install hardware and
software components and operating systems; and (3) conduct test on the
installed computer system. The three major topics contain sub-topics that
discuss the details on installing computer systems and networks. This
module contains what to KNOW, what to PROCESS, what to REFLECT and
UNDERSTAND as well as what to TRANSFER. The competencies for this
module are:

LO 1. Plan and prepare for installation

 Observe Occupational Health and Safety policies and procedures in
planning for installation activity in accordance with requirements
 Familiarize with computer hardware, software component and other
peripherals in accordance with established procedures on correct
operation and safety policies

33
  Consult appropriate/ technical personnel to ensure that work is
coordinated with others who are involved in the activity
 Obtain materials necessary to complete the work in accordance with
established procedures
 Check the materials received against job requirements

LO 2. Install equipment/devices (hardware, software components and

peripherals) and operating systems
 Follow OHS procedures in installing devices, systems, networking
devices, and peripherals
 Comply with the requirements in installing devices,/systems, networking
devices, and peripherals
 Install computer systems, networking devices and peripherals in
accordance with job requirements
 Perform installation of devices and variety of operating systems in
accordance with customer/client’s requirements
 Obtain approval from appropriate personnel before implementing
contingency procedures
 Respond to unplanned events or conditions in accordance to established
procedures
 Check the quality of the work undertaken in accordance with the
established procedures

LO 3. Conduct test on the installed computer system

 Follow OHS policies and procedures in conducting tests
 Check circuits and systems being isolated using specified testing
procedures
 Test devices, systems and/or installation to determine its conformity with
the requirements
 Undertake final inspections on the installed devices, systems to ensure
conformity with the requirements
 Accomplish technical reports on the tests conducted
 Follow procedures in forwarding documentation to appropriate personnel
and/or authority on the test conducted

In order to master the above listed competencies, you must be

knowledgeable of the topics under what to KNOW, perform activities required
under what to PROCESS, accomplish additional meaningful tasks under what
to REFLECT and UNDERSTAND and finally show some evidences of your

34
learning by transferring what you have learned in a different context under
what to TRANSFER.

You will be challenged to dig deeper into your prior knowledge and
previous experiences about computer hardware servicing.

SKILLS TEST
Direction: Listed below are some of the most important skills that you
must gain in order to render quality service when you enter the real world of
Computer Hardware Servicing. Read the skills carefully. Write “YES” if you
are familiar with the skill and “NO” if not. Feel free to answer each skill. Write
your answers in your notebook.

Skills in Computer Hardware Servicing YES NO

I can open a computer case.
I can connect the mouse.
I can connect the keyboard.
I can connect the monitor.
I can apply occupational health and safety precautions while
working.
I can remove the system fan.
I can detach the power supply from the system unit.
I know how to remove the RAM from the motherboard.
I can remove the hard drive from the system unit.
I can install the power supply.
I know how to install the motherboard.
I can install the internal drives in a system unit.
I know how to attach RAM in the memory socket.
I can install CD / DVD drives.
I know how to install an operating system
I know how to configure a hardware components and its related
software
I know the procedures in testing the installed computer
components

35
 The following topics will enable you to be familiar with planning and
preparing for installation, install equipment and devices, and conduct test on
the installed computer system. All you need to do is to read carefully all the
topics and apply the skills you’ve gained through the distinct activities
provided in this module.

LESSON 1: PLAN AND PREPARE FOR INSTALLATION

This lesson is intended to develop your skills in planning and preparing

for installation of computer devices and operating system. At the end of this
lesson you are expected to:
 Observe OHS policies and procedures in planning for installation activity
in accordance with requirements
 Familiarize with computer peripheral/ devices/systems in accordance
with established procedures correct operation and safety
 Consult appropriate/ technical personnel to ensure that work is
coordinated with others who are involved in the activity
 Obtain materials necessary to complete the work in accordance with
established procedures
 Check the materials received against job requirements

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Policy –An Information and

communication technology (ICT) student should know how to behave when
working in the computer laboratory, as well as implement a safe way of
accomplishing every task. Safety practices should be learned early and
always adheres in working with any electrical and electronic device, including
personal computers and its peripherals. This is for your protection as well as
to the people working with you, and for the devices that you are using. The
basis for this process begins with Occupational Health and Safety Policies.

36
Occupational safety and health (OSH) is a planned system of working to
prevent illness and injury where you work by recognizing and identifying
hazards and risks. Health and safety procedure is the responsibility of all
persons in the computer and technology industries. You must identify the
hazards where you are working and decide how dangerous they are.
Eliminate the hazard or modify the risk that it presents.

Occupational Health and Safety standards

Each student has a responsibility to their colleagues and their
organization to report and act upon any potential workplace hazard. Students
need to be aware of the type of hazards that are possibly present in their work
environment.

Procedure
1. Identify the hazard
2. Clear the area close to the hazard
3. Partition the hazard off or clearly identify the area to protect other
people from harm
4. If the hazard is easily and safely cleared, then do so

If not…
5. Report the hazard to the appropriate person (such as teacher in
charge, principal etc.) to obtain assistance
6. Following clearing of the hazard fill out the correct documentation to
assist in identifying improved practice to reduce further incidence of
hazards.

All hazards must be reported using Accidental Report form. This

enables us to track the kinds of hazards we have in our workplace, and take
action where necessary to make it safer for all student and clients.

Accident reports

Forms are used to give specific details with regards to the accidents
happened in the laboratory during experiments.

Accident reports contain the following details:

 Name of the person injured

 Date and time of the accident

37
  Type of injury
 First aid given
 Action taken to prevent further accidents

Hazardous substances
If the workplace hazard appears to be dangerous to staff and clients
and professional assistance is required:
A. Call the supervisor or manager and advise them of the problem and
the urgency of the matter.
B. Depending on the risk it may be called as an evacuation.
C. Follow the evacuation procedure.
D. The supervisor or manager will call in the fire brigade or specialized
personnel who will deal with the spill.

Accident report sample form

Date:

Form No: Accident Report Form

Rm. No:

Name: Yr/Sec:

Type of Injury Cause of Injury Remedy

38
Fire exits
All fire exits should be kept clear of from obstacles. All students have a
responsibility to make sure that chairs, empty boxes or any other type of
obstacle are not placed in or near fire exit doorways.
All corridors also need to have equipment stored on one side only to
ensure that in the event of an emergency there is a clear exit.

Fire Safety Procedure

Each work area has a designated fire warden, who in the event of a fire will
take charge. They are recognized by the wearing of a red hard hat.

If you find the fire

 Assess the danger prior to doing anything.

 If it is safe to move assist anyone in the vicinity of the fire away from
danger.
 If it is possible close the door to the fire area.
 Call for assistance. Verbally call FIRE, FIRE, in a loud and clear voice.
 Break the glass section of the fire alert call point.
 Call to the switch; ensure you know where the fire is, any other details
that may be of assistance to the fire brigade. Details could be size of
the fire, cause or type of fire, any people hurt or trapped, has anyone
tried to put it out.
 If safe to do so, attack the fire with the correct extinguisher or fire hose.

If the designated fire officer is not present, someone quickly needs

to take responsibility and:

1. Locate the source of the fire.

2. Locate any people.
3. Remove all people from the building.
4. Once outside do a head count?
5. Notify the authorities.

Personal Safety While Working with PC’s

Computer equipment can be dangerous, and you or others can be
injured or even killed if you don’t follow proper safety guidelines when
working along with PC’s. The following are some precautionary measures to
take before working with any computer equipment:

39
  Wear shoes with non-conductive rubber soles to help reduce the
chance of being shocked or seriously injured in an electrical accident.
 Do not work on components that are plugged into their power source.
 Do not remove expansion cards from a computer when it is turned on.
 Remove jewelries when working inside any computer related
equipment.
 Be sure not to mix electronic components and water.

Applying OH&S Policies

1. Group yourselves into six members.

2. Conduct a simulation on: “Applying OHS Policies and Procedures”.

3. The performance will be rated according to the following:

Performance Criteria:

5 - Have shown five OHS policies in different areas

4 - Have shown four OHS policies in different areas
3 - Have shown three OH&S policies in different areas
2 - Have shown two OH&S policies in different areas
1 - Have not shown any OH&S policies

40
UNDERSTANDING COMPUTER

A computer is one of the most brilliant inventions of mankind. Thanks

to the computer technology, we were able to achieve storage and processing
of huge amounts of data; we could rest our brains by employing computer
memory capacities for storing information. Due to computers, we have been
able to speed up daily work, carry out critical transactions and achieve
accuracy and precision in work. Computers of the earlier years were of the
size of a large room and were required to consume huge amounts of electric
power. However, with the advancing technology, computers have shrunk to
the size of a small watch. Depending on the processing power and size of
computers, they have been classified under various types. Let us look at the
classification of computers.

Different Types of Computers

Based on the operational principle of computers, they are categorized
as analog, digital and hybrid computers.

Analog Computers: These are almost extinct today. These are different from
a digital computer because an analog computer can only perform several
mathematical operations simultaneously. It uses continuous variables for
mathematical operations and utilizes mechanical or electrical energy.

Figure1. Different Types of Computer

41
Digital Computers: They use digital circuits and are designed to operate on
two states, namely bits 0 and 1. They are analogous to states ON and OFF.
Data on these computers is represented as a series of 0s and 1s. Digital
computers are suitable for complex computation and have higher processing
speeds. They are programmable. Digital computers are either general
purpose computers or special purpose ones. Special purpose computers, as
their name suggests, are designed for specific types of data processing while
general purpose computers are meant for general use.

Hybrid Computers: These computers are a combination of both digital and

analog computers. In this type of computers, the digital segments perform
process control by conversion of analog signals to digital ones.

Classification of Computers
The following are the classification of the different types of computers
based on their sizes and functionalities:

Mainframe Computers: Large organizations use mainframes for highly

critical applications such as bulk data processing and ERP (Enterprise
Resource Planning). Most of the mainframe computers have the capacities to
host multiple operating systems and operate as a number of virtual machines
and can substitute for several small servers.

Minicomputers: In terms of size and processing capacity, minicomputers lie

in between mainframes and microcomputers. Minicomputers are also called
mid-range systems or workstations. The term began to be popularly used in
the 1960s to refer to relatively smaller third generation computers.

Servers: They are computers designed to provide services to client machines

in a computer network. They have larger storage capacities and powerful
processors. Running on them are programs that serve client requests and
allocate resources like memory and time to client machines. Usually they are
very large in size, as they have large processors and many hard drives. They
are designed to be fail-safe and resistant to crash.

Supercomputers: The highly calculation-intensive tasks can be effectively

performed by means of supercomputers. Quantum physics, mechanics,
weather forecasting, molecular theory are best studied by means of
supercomputers. Their ability of parallel processing and their well-designed

42
memory hierarchy give the supercomputers, large transaction processing
powers.

Microcomputers: A computer with a microprocessor and its central

processing unit it is known as a microcomputer. They do not occupy space as
much as mainframes do. When supplemented with a keyboard and a mouse,
microcomputers can be called personal computers. A monitor, a keyboard
and other similar input output devices, computer memory in the form of RAM
and a power supply unit come packaged in a microcomputer. These
computers can fit on desks or tables and prove to be the best choice for
single-user tasks.

Figure2. Classification of Computer

43
 Personal computers come in different forms such as desktops, laptops
and personal digital assistants (refer to Figure 3). Let us look at each of these
types of computers.

Desktops: A desktop is intended to be used on a single location. The spare

parts of a desktop computer are readily available at relatively lower costs.
Power consumption is not as critical as that in laptops. Desktops are widely
popular for daily use in the workplace and households.

Laptops: Similar in operation to desktops, laptop computers are miniaturized

and optimized for mobile use. Laptops run on a single battery or an external
adapter that charges the computer batteries.

Figure3. Types of Personal Computer

Net books: They fall in the category of laptops, but are inexpensive and
relatively smaller in size. They had a smaller feature set and lesser capacities
in comparison to regular laptops, at the time they came into the market.

44
Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs): It is a handheld computer and popularly
known as a palmtop. It has a touch screen and a memory card for storage of
data. PDAs can also be used as portable audio players, web browsers and
smart phones. Most of them can access the Internet by means of Bluetooth or
Wi-Fi communication.

Tablet Computers: Tablets are mobile computers that are very handy to use.
They use the touch screen technology. Tablets come with an onscreen
keyboard or use a stylus or a digital pen. Apple's iPod redefined the class of
tablet computers.

Wearable Computers: A record-setting step in the evolution of computers

was the creation of wearable computers. These computers can be worn on
the body and are often used in the study of behavior modeling and human
health. Military and health professionals have incorporated wearable
computers into their daily routine, as a part of such studies. When the users'
hands and sensory organs are engaged in other activities, wearable
computers are of great help in tracking human actions. Wearable computers
do not have to be turned on and off and remain in operation without user
intervention.

Direction: Identify the type of computer being described in the following

sentences and write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.

1. These are mobile computers that are very handy to use.

2. They are computers designed to provide services to client machines in a
computer network.
3. They are also called mid-range systems or workstations.
4. A computer with a microprocessor and its central processing unit.
5. They fall in the category of laptops, but are inexpensive and relatively
smaller in size.
6. A type of computer which is intended be used on a single location.
7. They use digital circuits and are designed to operate on two states,
namely bits 0 and 1.
8. Computers that have the capacities to host multiple operating systems
and operate as a number of virtual machines and can substitute for
several small servers.

45
9. It is a handheld computer and popularly known as a palmtop.
10. These computers can be worn on the body and are often used in the
study of behavior modeling and human health.

COMPUTER SYSTEM, DEVICES AND PERIPHERALS

As an aspiring computer technician, it is very important to know the

system that runs your computer and different devices attached to it. Each
device plays an important role, without each other computer system will not
work properly.

What is an Operating System?

The operating system is the most
important program that runs on a computer.
Every general-purpose computer must have
an operating system to run other programs.
Operating systems perform basic tasks, such
as recognizing input from the keyboard,
sending output to the display screen,
keeping track of files and directories on
the disk, and controlling peripheral
devices such as disk drives and printers.
For large systems, the operating
system has even greater responsibilities and powers. It is like a traffic cop -- it
makes sure that different program and users running at the same time do not
interfere with each other. The operating system is also responsible
for security, ensuring that unauthorized users do not access the system.

Operating systems can be classified as follows:

o Multi-user: Allows two or more users to run programs at the same
time. Some operating systems permit hundreds or even thousands
of concurrent users.
Linux
Unix
Windows 2000

46
 o Multiprocessing : Supports running a program on more than one
CPU.
Linux
Unix
Windows 2000
o Multitasking : Allows more than one program to run concurrently.
Unix
Windows 2000 and Windows multi point
o Multithreading : Allows different parts of a single program to run
concurrently.
Linux
Unix
Windows 2000 and Windows 7
o Real time: Responds to input instantly. General-purpose operating
systems, such as DOS and UNIX, are not real-time.

Operating systems provide a software platform on which

other application programs can run. The application programs must be written
to run on top of a particular operating system. Your choice of operating
system, therefore, determines to a great extent the applications you can run.
For PCs, the most popular operating systems are DOS, OS/2, and Windows,
but others are available, such as Linux.

What are the devices of a computer?

The physical, touchable, electronic and mechanical parts of a
computer are called the hardware which is composed of different devices
attached to the computer.

The following list represents a basic set of devices found in most

Personal Computers.

1. System Unit- The main part of a microcomputer, sometimes called the

chassis. It includes the following parts: Motherboard, Microprocessor,
Memory Chips, Buses, Ports, Expansion Slots and Cards.

47
 Source: computerit4u.com
Figure4. Tower Type System Unit

2. Motherboard / Mainboard / System Board- The main circuit board of a

computer. It contains all the circuits and components that run the computer.

Source: laptopmd.com
Figure5. Modern Motherboard

48
3. CPU (Central Processing Unit) - The processor is the main “brain” or
“heart” of a computer system. It performs all of the instructions and
calculations that are needed and manages the flow of information through a
computer.

Source: products.yumecompare.com
Figure6. Examples of CPU (Intel Core 2 Duo and AMD Athlon)

4. Primary storage- (internal storage, main memory or memory) is the

computer's working storage space that holds data, instructions for processing
and processed data (information) waiting to be sent to secondary storage.
Physically, primary storage is a collection of RAM chips.

Two (2) Types of Memory

a. ROM – (Read Only Memory) ROM is non-volatile, meaning it holds

data even when the power is ON or OFF.
b. RAM – (Random Access Memory) RAM is volatile, meaning it holds
data only when the power is on. When the power is off, RAM's
contents are lost.

Source: www.oempcworld.com
Figure 7.Examples of RAM

49
5. Expansion Bus - A bus is a data pathway between several hardware
components inside or outside a computer. It does not only connect the parts
of the CPU to each other, but also links the CPU with other important
hardware.

Source: www.mypcmag.com
Figure 8.Expansion Bus

6. Adapters- Printed-circuit boards (also called interface cards) that enable

the computer to use a peripheral device for which it does not have the
necessary connections or circuit boards. They are often used to permit
upgrading to a new different hardware.

Source: www.oempcworld.com
Figure 9. Adapter (Network Adapter)

6. Power Supply Unit (PSU) - Installed in the back corner of the PC

case, next to the motherboard. It converts 120vac (standard house
power) into DC voltages that are used by other components in the PC.

50
 Source: www.dansdata.com
Figure10. Power supply

8. Hard Disk Drive (HDD) - Also known as hard drive, is a magnetic storage
device that is installed inside the computer. The hard drive is used as
permanent storage for data. In a Windows computer, the hard drive is usually
configured as the C: drive and contains the operating system and
applications.

Source: news.techgenie.com
Figure 11.Hard Disk
9. Optical Drive- An optical drive is a storage device that uses lasers to read
data on the optical media. There are three types of optical drives: Compact
Disc (CD), Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) and Blu-ray Disc (BD).

Source: www.ktclear.in
Figure12. CD ROM

51
10. Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) - Designed to optically access data stored
on a DVD. A laser moves back and forth near the disk surface and accesses
data at a very fast rate.

Source: technology7days.blogspot.com
Figure 13.DVD ROM

What are the input and output devices of a computer?

The devices attached to a personal computer can be classified into

two- the input and output devices. Input Device is composed of a device that
accepts data and instructions from the user or from another computer system.
While, output device is any piece of computer hardware that displays results
after the computer has processed the input data that has been entered.

Two (2) Types of Input Devices

1. Keyboard Entry – Data is inputted to the computer through a keyboard.

Keyboard - The first input device developed for the PC. Data is
transferred to the PC over a short cable with a circular 6-pin Mini-din
connector that plugs into the back of the motherboard.

Figure14. Keyboard

52
2. Direct Entry – A form of input that does not require data to be keyed by
someone sitting at a keyboard. Direct-entry devices create machine-
readable data on paper, or magnetic media, or feed it directly into the
computer’s CPU.

Three (3) Categories of Direct Entry Devices

1. Pointing Devices - An input device used to move the pointer (cursor) on

screen.
 Mouse - The most common 'pointing
device' used in PCs. Every mouse
has two buttons and most have one
or two scroll wheels.

Source: www.ztenterprise.com
Figure15. Mouse

 Touch screen- A display screen that is sensitive to the touch of a

finger or stylus. Used in myriad applications, including ATM
machines, retail point-of-sale terminals, car navigation and
industrial controls. The touch screen became wildly popular for
smart phones and tablets.

Source: beestsoftwares.blogspot.com
Figure16. Touch Screen Devices

 Light Pen - A light-sensitive stylus wired to a video terminal used to

draw pictures or select menu options. The user brings the pen to
the desired point on screen and presses the pen button to make
contact.

53
 Source: majoarciniegas.wordpress.com
Figure17. Light Pen

 Digitizer Tablet - A graphics drawing tablet used for sketching new

images or tracing old ones. Also called a "graphics tablet," the user
contacts the surface of the device with a wired or wireless pen or
puck. Often mistakenly called a mouse, the puck is officially the
"tablet cursor."

Source: www.tutorialspoint.com
Figure18. Digitizer Tablet

2. Scanning Devices- A device that can read text or illustrations printed on

paper and translates the information into a form the computer can use.

Source: www.ztenterprise.com
Figure19. Image scanner
Source: www.barcodeman.com
Figure20. Bar Code Reader

54
3. Voice- Input Devices - Audio input devices also known as speech or voice
recognition systems that allow a user to send audio signals to a computer for
processing, recording, or carrying out commands. Audio input devices such
as microphones allow users to speak to the computer in order to record a
voice message or navigate software.

Source: www.digitalwish.com
Figure 21. Microphones

Output Devices

1. Computer Display Monitor- It displays information in visual form, using

text and graphics. The portion of the monitor that displays the information
is called the screen or video display terminal.

Types of Monitor
a. CRT Monitors - Cathode Ray Tubes (CRT) were the only type of displays
for use with desktop PCs. They are relatively big (14" to 16" deep) and
heavy (over 15 lbs).

Figure22. Types of Monitor

55
 b. LCD Monitors – Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) technology has been
used in laptops for some time. It has recently been made commercially
available as monitors for desktop PCs.

c. LED Monitors (Light Emitting Diode) - A display and lighting

technology used in almost every electrical and electronic product on
the market, from a tiny on/off light to digital readouts, flashlights, traffic
lights and perimeter lighting.

2. LCD Projectors- utilize two sheets of polarizing

material with a liquid crystal solution between
them. An electric current passed through the
liquid causes the crystals to align so that light
cannot pass through them. Each crystal,
therefore, is like a shutter, either allowing light to
pass through or blocking the light.
Source: www.projectorpoint.co.uk
Figure23. LCD Projector

3. Smart Board - A type of display screen that has a touch sensitive

transparent panel covering the screen, which is similar to a touch screen.

Source: www.projectorpoint.co.uk
Figure24. Smart Board

4. Printer - A device that prints text or illustrations on paper.

Types of printer

a) Ink-Jet or Bubble-Jet Printer - spays ink at a sheet of paper. Ink-jet

printers produce high-quality text and graphics.

56
b) Laser Printer - Uses the same technology as copy machines. Laser
printers produce very high quality text and graphics.
c) LCD and LED Printer- Similar to a laser printer, but uses liquid crystals or
light-emitting diodes rather than a laser to produce an image on the drum.
d) Line Printer - Contains a chain of characters or pins that print an entire
line at one time. Line printers are very fast, but produce low-quality print.

Source: www.pcworld.co.uk
Figure 25.Types of Printer

(e) Thermal Printer- An inexpensive printer that works by pushing heated

pins against heat-sensitive paper. Thermal printers are widely used in
calculators and fax machines.

5. Speakers - Used to play sound. They may be built into the system unit or
connected with cables. Speakers allow you to listen to music and hear sound
effects from your computer.

57
 Source: www.tweaknews.net
Figure 26.Speaker

What is a Storage Device?

Aside from the devices attached on a PC, there are also the so called
storage devices that perform a special task in computing system. Storage
device is any apparatus for recording computer data in a permanent or semi-
permanent form.

Source: www.thecomputershow.com
Figure 27.Storage Devices

58
 Types of storage devices

Floppy diskette- is a random access, removable data storage medium that

can be used with personal computers. The term usually refers to the magnetic
medium housed in a rigid plastic cartridge measuring 3.5 inches square and
about 2millimeters thick. Also called a "3.5-inch diskette," it can store up to
1.44 megabytes (MB) of data.

Compact disc (CD) – also called optical disc is a nonmagnetic, polished

metal disk used to store digital information. The disc is read by the CD- ROM.

Digital Versatile Disc (DVD)- an optical disc technology with a 4.7 gigabyte
storage capacity on a single-sided, one-layered disk, which is enough for a
133-minute movie.

Jump disk and USB flash disk- is a plug-and-play portable storage device
that uses flash memory and is lightweight enough to attach to a key chain. A
USB drive can be used in place of a floppy disk, Zip drive disk, or CD.

Hard disk- is the main, and usually largest, data storage device in a
computer. The operating system, software titles and most other files are
stored in the hard disk drive.

LS-120- is a drive which supports a special floppy diskette which can store up
to 120MB of information as well as being backwards compatible and still
supporting the standard 1.44MB floppy diskettes.

Zip disk-is a small, portable disk drive used primarily for backing up and
archiving personal computer files.

59
Direction: In the puzzle below, look for the 10 hidden computer devices and
determine whether it belongs to INPUT, OUTPUT or STORAGE DEVICE.

REVEAL THE PARTS OF A COMPUTER SYSTEM

C G M M Q F Y L W K C P A H K H G C N H
P O R K I R X N A A O A U A K B M P H U
Z A M Z W G W P X W A F V R Q V X U M Y
Q U I P R Y P T E X V I R D B W A O R B
I R T B A R S R U Y L G R D V J B O C U
A O N R D C S G S I L N H I Q S M I L X
C U H L Q U T Z G D C J F S E E J K O U
N H X S P U P D A K O Z X K M T Y U Z S
G H L P F H G P I Z T A F D O U U F T R
A S L W W T R A O S Q F A R E H B G M O
R Y B E A E M J I X K P I I X E C F H T
E S A C M E T S Y S D D E V W T I D V I
K W M I Q K K I S I O R R E I L D F F N
L E I O M E H Y A S K S A I I D G Z K O
M Q U N D H M R W O Q U H O V K T M J M
W P T H E R M K Z W J U B J B E A P Q Z
K Z Z M L H M O U S E C K Y C Y V Y S D
Y B Y V X E W P L Q Q Y O V N H E Z H D
R N F H T U B U G L S N P F J W N K N J
M J G N Y H V J D U G F L U X O M K D A

1. ________________________ ______________________
2. ________________________ ______________________
3. ________________________ ______________________
4. ________________________ ______________________
5. ________________________ ______________________
6. ________________________ ______________________
7. ________________________ ______________________
8. ________________________ ______________________
9. ________________________ ______________________
10. ________________________ ______________________

60
Matching Type
Direction: Match column A with Column B and write your answer on a
separate sheet of paper.

A.
1. It serves as the brain of B.
computer. a. Adapter
2. Printed-circuit boards (also b. CD- ROM
called interface cards) that c. CPU
enable the computer to use a d. Floppy disk
peripheral device e. Microphone
3. Also called read/write memory f. Monitor
4. a small, portable disk used g. Motherboard
primarily for backing up files h. Mouse
5. The main circuit board of a i. Optical Drive
computer j. RAM
6. Also called diskette k. ROM
7. Acts as a pointing device l. Speaker
8. Device that makes sounds, clips m. Zip Drive
and any audio materials be
heard.
9. Component that reads and
record data in CDs and DVDs.
10. it is a visual device that displays
the information

To deepen your understanding with regard to the different

components / devices of a computer, utilize the Internet and the
website www.professormesser.com, view the video regarding parts
of the computer. Use the URLs below:
1. http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-801/an-
overview-of-motherboard-types/

61
2. http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-801/an-
overview-of-cpu-socket-types/

3. http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-801/an-
overview-of-cpu-socket-types/

4. http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-801/an-
overview-of-display-device-types/

62
5. http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-801/an-
overview-of-pc-input-devices/

 After watching the videos, answer the following questions:

1. What are the different types of motherboard shown in the
video?
2. What are the different sizes of a motherboard?
3. What are the different types of CPU?
4. Describe the different types of memory cited in the video.
5. What do you think is the most efficient monitor used in our
computers nowadays?
6. Give at least 5 input devices featured in the video
presentation.

Role Playing

The class will be divided into 5 groups (depending on the class

size), each group will have a minimum of 5 members and maximum of
10. Each member should have a special role pertaining to the devices
of a computer and their functions. Each group will be tasked to
showcase their talents in front of the class. Each presentation will be
rated using the following criteria:

63
 PERFORMANCE SCORE CARD

CRITERIA PERCENTAGE SCORE

Accuracy (Accurate role and function of a 30%
device was accurately shown)
Presentation (Organization or sequence 30%
of the play, appropriate gestures was
used)
Clarity (Clearly delivered each topic) 30%
Team work (cooperation of each member) 10%
Performance Rating

NETWORK

A network consists of two or more computers that are linked in order to

share resources (such as printers and CD-ROMs), exchange files, or allow
electronic communications. The computers on a network may be linked
through cables, telephone lines, radio waves, satellites, or infrared light
beams.

There are three basic types of networks which includes the following:

 Local Area Network (LAN)

 Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
 Wide Area Network (WAN)

Local Area Network

A Local Area Network (LAN) is a network that is confined to a relatively

small area. It is generally limited to a geographic area such as a writing lab,
school, or building. Rarely are LAN computers more than a mile apart.

In a typical LAN configuration, one computer is designated as the file

server. It stores all of the software that controls the network, as well as the
software that can be shared by the computers attached to the network.

64
Computers connected to the file server are called workstations. The
workstations can be less powerful than the file server, and they may have
additional software on their hard drives. On most LANs, cables are used to
connect the network interface cards in each computer.

Metropolitan Area Network

A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a network that interconnects

users with computer resources in a geographic area or region larger than that
covered by even a large local area network (LAN) but smaller than the area
covered by a wide area network (WAN). The term is applied to the
interconnection of networks in a city into a single larger network (which may
then also offer efficient connection to a wide area network). It is also used to
mean the interconnection of several local area networks by bridging them
with backbone lines. The latter usage is also sometimes referred to as a
campus network.

Wide Area Network

Wide Area Networks (WANs) connect larger geographic areas, such

as Florida, the United States, or the world. Dedicated transoceanic cabling or
satellite uplinks may be used to connect this type of network.

Networking Devices

Consist of, but are not limited to non-local printers, workstations,

servers, webcams, data loggers, instruments, dial-in devices, and, in general
anything that requires an Ethernet connection. These devices are supported
on a best-effort basis limited by the staffing and equipment level available.

Hub is a small, simple, inexpensive device

that joins multiple computers together. Many
network hubs available today support
the Ethernet standard. Other types
including USB hubs also exist, but Ethernet
is the type traditionally used in home
networking.
Source: www.stepbystep.com

65
Ethernet switch is a device that gathers the
signals from devices that are connected to it, and
then regenerates a new copy of each signal.

Source: www.dlink.com

Bridge is a device filters data traffic at a

network boundary. Bridges reduce the
amount of traffic on a LAN by dividing it into
two segments.

Source: www.quantrimang.edu.vn

Routers are small physical devices that join multiple

networks together.

Source: www.robertbcairns.com

Network gateway is an internetworking system

capable of joining together two networks that use
different base protocols. A network gateway can be
implemented completely in software, completely in
hardware, or as a combination of both.

66
 Network interface is a device that
connects a client computer, server, printer
or other component to your network. Most
often, a network interface consists of a
small electronic circuit board that is
inserted into a slot inside a computer or
printer. Alternatively, some computers,
Source:
printers, or other services include network
www.computerlogics.blogspot.com
interfaces as part of their main circuit
boards (motherboards).

Modem is a contraction of the terms

modulator and demodulator. Modems
perform a simple function: They translate
digital signals from a computer into analog
signals that can travel across conventional
phone lines. The modem modulates the
signal at the sending end and
Source:www.dlink.com demodulates at the receiving end.

Network firewall protects a computer

network from unauthorized access.
Network firewalls may be hardware
devices, software programs, or a
combination of the two. Network firewalls
guard an internal computer network
(home, school, business intranet) against
malicious access from the outside.
Network firewalls may also be configured
Source:www.security-solutions.co.za to limit access to the outside from internal
users.

67
Direction: Identify what is being described in the following sentences and
write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.
1. It protects a computer network from unauthorized access.
2. Type of network that connect larger geographic areas, such as Florida,
the United States, or the world.
3. This is an internetworking system capable of joining together two
networks that use different base protocols.
4. It is consists of two or more computers that are linked in order to share
resources (such as printers and CD-ROMs), exchange files, or allow
electronic communications.
5. They translate digital signals from a computer into analog signals that
can travel across conventional phone lines.
6. It is a device that connects a client computer, server, printer or other
component to your network.
7. A device filters data traffic at a network boundary.
8. It is a device that gathers the signals from devices that are connected
to it, and then regenerates a new copy of each signal.
9. It is a small, simple, inexpensive device that joins multiple computers
together.
10. Type of network that is confined to a relatively small area.

Now, that you are done with the introduction of network as well as the
networking devices, to enlighten your understanding and knowledge have
some more readings about it thru books and other resources. You should
consider the following topics for research:
1. Different types of Network Topology
2. Common networking tools

After the research, you can also deepen your understanding by

watching a video presentation using the URL below:

68
 o http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-
801/network-devices/

o http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-
801/network-topologies-3/

After the video presentation here are your tasks:

1. List down all the network devices and their advantages cited in
the video.
2. List down the different network topologies and their differences.

69
MATERIALS, TOOLS, EQUIPMENT and TESTING DEVICES

The following tools and equipment are classified according to their

functions and uses.

Equipment and Tools Materials

Accessories
LAN Card Screwdriver(standard) Software
UPS Screwdriver(Philips) applications
Server Long nose pliers Network OS
24 port-hub Mechanical pliers Software
Modem Allen wrench RJ 45
Fax machine Multi tester UTP Cat 5 cable
PC Video camera Crimping tools Motherboard’s
USBExternalCD writer Soldering iron (30 watts) manual and
USB scanner Wire stripper installer
USB printers LAN Tester Sound device
USB Flash Drive Anti-static wrist wrap driver installer
Device drivers/installers

 LAN Card – is a network interface card. This is a

computer circuit board or card that is installed in
a computer so that it can be connected to a
network.

 Server – is a part of a network. It is a special

computer that users on the network can access
to carry out a particular job.

70
 Port hub /Port – is a connector on the back of a
computer or other device. A port is either a serial
port or a parallel port.

 Modem - (Modulator-Demodulator) The

modem is a device that allows a given computer
to share data or otherwise a device which let
computers exchange information

 Scanner- it is an input device that read text

or illustration printed on paper, translates
the information into a form that a computer
can use

 Flat Screw Driver – is used to drive or

fasten negative slotted screws

 USB – Universal Serial Bus, a hardware

interface for low-speed peripherals such as
the keyboard, mouse, joystick, scanner,
printer and telephony devices.

 Printer - is a piece of hardware that

produces a paper copy (also known as
‘hardcopy’) of the information generated by
the computer.

 RAM – Random Access Memory, is a

primary memory. This memory is used
inside the computer to hold programs and
data while it is running.

71
 BIOS – Basic Input/ Output System, chip
that controls the most basic functions of the
computer and performs a self-test every
time you turn it on.

 Flash drive– RAM that can retain data

without electrical power. It is widely used for
BIOS chips and for digital camera and digital
music storage

 Video Camera - camera using videotape: a

camera that records onto videotape

 Long nose Pliers – is used for holding,

bending and stretching the lead of
electronics component or connecting wire.

 Soldering Iron – is used to join two or

more metal conductors with the support of
soldering lead melted around it.

 Desoldering Tool – is used to unsolder

unwanted parts or component in the circuit
with the support of soldering pencil

 Philips Screw Driver- is used to drive or

fasten positive slotted screws

72
 LAN Tester- for RJ11,12,45& BNC w/
Remote Unit This ergonomic tester is
designed to test most network cable wiring.
You can either conduct an auto or manual
test.

 UTP – Unshielded Twisted Pair, is a popular

type of cable used in computer networking
that consists of two shielded wires twisted
around each

Using Testing Tools and Equipment

A. Direction: Identify the following tools and materials, give their uses.

1.

2.

3.

4.

73
5.

B. Identification.
Direction: Identify the appropriate term described in each sentence. Use
a separate sheet for your answers.
________1. It is a connector at the black of a computer or other device.
________2. A computer circuit board installed in a computer so that it can be
connected to a network.
________3. A device that allows a given computer to share a data.
________4. An input device that read text or illustration printed on paper,
translated the information into a form that a computer that can use.
________5.The least expensive and most popular network media.

For you to deepen your knowledge and skills and understanding in

planning and preparing for installation, you need to determine the location of
the devices / systems to be used, obtain materials necessary to complete the
work in accordance with established procedures and check the materials
received against job requirements . Your task is to have a research, find as
well and watch video presentations relating and showing the following:

1. Consult appropriate technical personnel to ensure that work is

coordinated with others who are involved in the activity;
2. Proper location / storage of the devices / systems and materials;
3. Correct way of obtaining the necessary materials to complete the work;
4. Fill up job order forms, request form and report sheets; and
5. Appropriate procedures in checking the materials received.

After doing the above tasks, make sure that you have a detailed
documentation of it. Write your reflections on your notebooks or other sheet of
paper.

74
 After reflecting on the task given to you, it’s your chance now to
transfer what you have learned from the activity by having a presentation in
front of the class. You will be grouped with 5 members during the
presentation. Make use of your creativity in presenting each topic to awaken
the interest of your classmates.

75
LESSON2. INSTALL EQUIPMENT / DEVICES and SYSTEMS

This lesson is designed to give you the proper procedures used in

installing devices and operating system of a personal computer, alongside
with it is the basic computer configuration set up. At the end of this lesson you
should be able to:

a) Apply OHS procedures in installing devices, systems, networking devices,

and peripherals;
b) Comply with the requirements in installing devices,/systems, networking
devices, and peripherals;
c) Install computer systems, networking devices and peripherals in
accordance with job requirements;
d) Perform variations in installing devices and systems in accordance with
customer/client’s requirements;
e) Obtain approval from appropriate personnel before implementing
contingency procedures;
f) Respond to unplanned events or conditions in accordance to established
procedures; and
g) Check the quality of the work undertaken in accordance with the
established procedures.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Personal Protective Equipment - It refers to protective clothing, helmets,

goggles, or other gear designed to protect the wearer's body or clothing from
injury by electrical hazards, heat, chemicals, and infection, for job-related
occupational safety and health purposes.

PPE can also be used to protect the working environment from

pesticide application, pollution or infection from the worker (for example in a
microchip factory).

76
 It is important that students and teachers during their laboratory period
should be required to use personal protective equipment. Some of these are:

 Goggles A large spectacles, with

shields around the rims, for
protecting the eyes from dust,
excessive light, wind, etc.
 Rubber Sole A special type of shoes
used to prevent electrical shock and
for waterproofing and insulating
purposes.

 Apron A garment worn over the front

of the body as a protection for one’s
cloth.

 Face Mask A covering for the face to

prevent the inhaling or absorbing
dust and other chemicals

 Gloves The covering material with a

separate sheath for each finger used
for hand protection.

Anti-Static and Safety Precautions

The little shock you experience while you are walking across a
carpeted floor or when you touched a door knob, table, counter or even
another person is a result of static electricity. Static electricity is the
discharge of electricity between two objects with different electrical potential.

77
Humans can't feel a static shock until it is several thousand volts strong, but it
takes less than 30 volts to fry a sensitive computer component, such as a
stick of RAM or a processor.

That's why computer technicians and home computer builders have to

guard their computers against the damaging effect of static electricity, as well
as take steps to avoid injury.

Safety and Anti-Static Rules

 Always use an anti-static wrist strap when working on a computer

(except when working on monitors)
 Always disconnect a computer from the AC power and from any
powered peripherals while you are working on it.
 Always grasp a metal part of the computer chassis with your bare hand
before you touch anything inside. Do this even if you are wearing an
anti-static wristband.
 Always handle electronic components by a non-conducting (non-
metallic) edge. Don't touch the pins or other connectors.
 Never plug an ATX power supply into AC power unless it is connected
either to a computer's motherboard or to a dummy test load.
 Always use a UL-approved surge protector or an Uninterruptible Power
Supply that incorporates surge and spike protection.
 Never eat, drink, or smoke while working on a computer.

True or False
Direction: Write TRUE if the statement is correct and FALSE otherwise.

1. Always disconnect a computer from the AC power and from any

powered peripherals while you are working on it.
2. Always grasp a metal part of the computer chassis with your bare hand
before you touch anything inside. Do this even if you are wearing an
anti-static wristband.
3. Always handle electronic components by a non-conducting (non-
metallic) edge. Don't touch the pins or other connectors.
4. Always use a UL-approved surge protector or an Uninterruptible Power
Supply that incorporates surge and spike protection.

78
 5. Never use an anti-static wrist strap when working on a computer
(except when working on monitors)
6. Everyone is allowed to eat, drink, or smoke while working on a
computer.
7. Never plug an ATX power supply into AC power unless it is connected
either to a computer's motherboard or to a dummy test load.
8. Static electricity is the discharge of electricity between two objects with
different electrical potential.
9. Apron is a garment worn over the front of the body as a protection for
one’s cloth.
10. PPE can also be used to protect the working environment from
pesticide application, pollution or infection from the worker.

Directions: The class will be divided into five (5) groups. Each group has its
own respective leader. The group will perform a task regarding familiarizing
the personal protective equipment. After the activity they will be graded using
the given Performance Score Card below:

PERFORMANCE SCORE CARD

Performance Criteria Percentage Grade

1. The student clearly identified personal protective

20%
equipment.

2. The student utilized actual tools/device in

15%
performing the actual procedures.

3. The student applied safety precautions during the

25%
task.

4. The task gave students more critical thinking on the

30%
personal protective equipment.

5. The student cooperatively performed the task. 10%

Performance Rating

79
SYSTEM’S SPECIFICATION

Whenever you purchase software or hardware for your computer, you

should first make sure your computer supports the system requirements.
These are the necessary specifications your computer must have in order to
use the software or hardware. For example, a computer game may require
your computer to have Windows XP or later, a 2.0 GHz processor, 512 MB of
RAM, a 64 MB graphics card, and 500 MB or hard drive space. If your
computer does not meet all of these requirements, the game will not run very
well or might not run at all.
It is just as important to check system requirements for hardware
devices. For example, if you buy a printer, it may require either Windows XP
or Mac OS X 10.3 or later. It may also require a USB port and 80 MB of
available hard drive space. If your computer does not have any USB ports,
you will not be able to physically connect the printer. If your machine does not
have Windows XP or Mac OS X 10.3 or later, the printer drivers may be
incompatible with your operating system. This means your computer will be
unable to recognize the printer.
Most hardware and software products have the system requirements
printed on the side or bottom of the product packaging. When you are
shopping for computer software or hardware, it is a good idea to first find out
exactly what your system's specifications are and write them down on a piece
of paper. The important information to record includes:
1. Operating System (i.e. Windows XP, SP 2 or Mac OS X 10.3.8)
2. Processor Speed (i.e. Pentium 4, 3.2 GHz or Power PC G5, 2.0 GHz)
3. Memory, a.k.a. RAM (i.e. 512 MB)
4. Graphics Card (i.e. ATI Radeon 9800 w/ 256 MB video memory)
5. Hard Disk Space (i.e. 80 GB available)
6. I/O Ports (i.e. USB, Firewire, Serial, Parallel, SCSI, VGA, DVI ports)
By recording these specifications from your computer, you will be able
to make sure your computer supports the products you are buying. In terms of
installation, systems’ specification is a big consideration in order for a
computer to run and work properly for the most efficient way it could be.
In broad terms, the performance of a computer depends on four
factors: the speed and architecture of its processor or "central processing

80
unit" (CPU), how much random access memory (RAM) it has, its graphics
system, and its internal hard drive speed and capacity. Also of importance to
most users will be the specification of its Internet connection. Most computer
users and in particular those working with a lot of photographs, music files or
videos should also think about the most suitable storage devices they will
need in order to keep and back-up all of their valuable data.

Processor speed and architecture

The speed of a computer's processor chip (technically known as its

"clock speed") in measured in gigahertz (GHz), with the fastest modern
processors currently running at up to 4.7GHz. However, for most computing
tasks, including web browsing, sending e-mails, word processing and
spreadsheet work any processor running at 1GHz or more remains perfectly
sufficient.

For applications such as video editing, 3D graphics work and (for the
majority of "power users") playing computer games, higher processor speeds
is highly required. CPU performance is now determined by far more than raw
speed alone. Intel made this very clear when it introduced its system
of processor numbers. These provide an indication of a processor's
"architecture", "cache" and "front side bus (FSB) speed" in addition to its clock
speed.

The architecture of a processor is the most important factor to

determine its performance, and refers to its basic design and complexity.
Some processors are simply more sophisticated than others, with Intel (for
example) producing "basic" processors called Celerons and Pentiums, as well
as more powerful processors under its "Core" processor family. The later
include the Core 2, Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7, with the last of these being
the most powerful.

In addition to clock speed and architecture, a processor's cache and

front side bus (FSB) speed also determine a computer's overall power.
Cache is a form of very fast memory integrated into the processor chip, and
used to store up instructions (work for the processor) so that it has to slow
down as little as possible between tasks. Cache is measured in megabytes
(MB), with (for example) low-end Celeron processors having as little as
0.25MB of cache (256KB), and high-end Itaniums having up to 24MB. The

81
simple message is, the more cache the better- though high levels of cache
still come at a very significant price.

Front side bus (FSB) speed is a measure of how fast a

microprocessor communicates with the computer's main circuit board (or
"motherboard") into which it is physically connected. Again, the higher the
measure the better for overall performance, with FSB speeds currently
ranging from 533MHz (still perfectly sufficient for the vast majority of
applications) up to 1600 MHz.

RAM

To a large extent, the more RAM a computer has the faster and more
effectively it will operate. Computers with little RAM have to keep moving data
to and from their hard disks in order to keep running. This tends to make them
not just slow in general, but more annoyingly intermittently sluggish.
RAM is measured in megabytes (MB) and gigabytes (GB), as detailed
on the storage page. Just how much RAM a computer needs depends on
the software it is required to run effectively. A computer running Windows XP
will usually function quite happily with 1GB of RAM, whereas twice this
amount (such as 2GB) is the realistic minimum for computers running
Windows 7.

Graphics system

A computer's graphics system determines how well it can work with

visual output. Graphics systems can either be integrated into a computer's
motherboard, or plugged into the motherboard as a separate "video card".
Graphics systems integrated into the motherboard (also known as "onboard
graphics") are now quite powerful, and sufficient for handling the
requirements of most software applications aside from games playing, 3D
modeling, and some forms of video editing.

Any form of modern computer graphics system can now display high-
resolution color images on a standard-sized display screen (ie any monitor up
to about 19" in size). The more sophisticated graphics cards now determines
how well a computer can handle the playback of high definition video, as well
as the speed and quality at which 3D scenes can be rendered. Another key
feature of separate graphics cards is that most of them now allow more than

82
one display screen to be connected to a computer. Others also permit the
recording of video.

As a basic rule, unless a computer is going to be used to handle 3D

graphics or to undertake a significant volume of video editing or recording,
today there is little point in opting for anything other than onboard graphics
(not least because separate graphics cards consume quite a lot of electricity
and create quite a lot of heat and noise). Adding a new graphics card to a
computer with onboard graphics is also a very easy upgrade if required in the
future.

Hard Drive Speed and Capacity

Today 40GB is an absolute minimum hard drive size for a new

computer running Windows 7, with a far larger capacity being recommended
in any situation where more than office software is going to be installed.
Where a computer will frequently be used to edit video, a second internal
hard disk dedicated only to video storage is highly recommended for stable
operation. Indeed, for professional video editing using a program like
Premiere Pro CS5, Adobe now recommend that a PC has at
least three internal hard disks (one for the operating system and programs,
one for video project files, and one for video media).

Two key factors determine the speed of traditional, spinning hard

disks. The first is the rotational velocity of the physical disk itself. This can
currently be 4200, 5400, 7200, 10000 or 15000 rpm (revolutions per minute).
The faster the disk spins, the quicker data can be read from or written to it,
hence the faster the disk the better (although faster disks consumer more
power, make more noise, and generate more heat). Most desktop hard disks
run at either 5400 or 7200 rpm, whilst most laptop hard disks run at 4200 or
5400.

The second key factor that determines performance of a traditional,

internal hard disk is the interface used to connect it to the computer's
motherboard. Three types of interface exist: Serial Advance Technology
Attachment (SATA), which is the most modern and now pretty much the
norm on new PCs; Integrated Device Electronics (IDE) (also known as
UDMA), which is a slower and older form of interface, and finally SCSI (Small
Computer System Interface), which happens to be the oldest but in it most
modern variant is still the fastest disk interface standard.

83
 Now, in order for you to better understand the topics under system’s
specification, dig deep into your mind and answer the following essential
questions:

1. In your point of view, describe system specification?

2. How does it affect the performance of the computer?
3. What is the relevance of understanding system specification in
computer hardware servicing?
4. Why do you think that system specification is one of the most
important considerations during installation?

INSTALLATION OF HARDWARE COMPONENTS AND OTHER

PERIPHERALS

One of the basic skills that you must acquire in computer hardware
servicing is to independently assemble and disassemble a personal computer
or simply setting up a PC. After familiarizing with all the tools, devices,
peripherals and safety precautions I believe that you are now ready to gain
another experience in CHS by going through this lesson.

Personal Computer Disassembly

Before starting computer disassembly, make sure you have the tools
you need and they're all close by and handy and be sure to have a container
to keep the screws in so you have them when you want to put things back
together.

Step1. Unplugging - The first thing you do is to unplug every cable that is
plugged in to your computer. That includes the cables such as Power, USB,

84
Mouse, Keyboard, Internet, Ethernet, Modem, AM\FM Antenna, Cable TV,
etc. Just unplug all the cables for safety purposes.
Now that your computer is fully unplugged, move your PC to a clean
work space.

Step2.Opening the Outer Shell/Case – First, unscrew the four screws at the
back of the computer. On most computer cases, there will be large knobs that
you can unscrew by hand or by screw driver on the back-right side of the
computer.

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 28. Screw at the back of computer chasis

The left side has small screws because on that side you can’t access
much on the inside. Once the screws are removed, you can remove the side
panels. On most computers, they just slide off. Start with the left side panel
(the side that once had the knobs), slide it towards the back of the computer.
Now you can remove the left panel. Just like the other side, slide it towards
the back of the computer.

Side
panel

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 29. Removing the side panel

85
NOTICE:
If you are working on a carpet, about every five minutes touch something that
is grounded (Sink faucet / pipe, wire coming from the ground part of a wall
outlet). This is done so you do not shock your motherboard or other parts.

Step3. Removing the System Fan - First, unplug the fan from the
motherboard. You can find the plug by following the wire from the fan. It
should be labeled "SYS_FAN1". Next, you will have to unscrew the fan from
the outside. You should now be able to lift the fan out of the PC.

System Fan

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 30. Removing the system fan

Step4. Removing the CPU Fan- The CPU fan is located right on top of the
CPU heat sink, which is a large piece of metal with fins on the top. The CPU
fan plugs into the motherboard in an awkward place, that is hard to access.
But just follow the wires and you should easily find it. It is labeled "CPU
FAN1". To remove the fan from the heat sink, remove the four screws
securing it in place.

CPU Fan

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 31. Removing the CPU fan

86
Step5. Power Supply - The first thing to do is unplug every wire coming from
the power supply. You must disconnect the motherboard (very large
connector/plug), CD/DVD drive(s) power, internal hard drive power and
portable hard drive slot power.
Once everything is unplugged,
unscrew the four screws holding the
power supply in place, on the back of
the computer. Next, push the power
supply from the outside, and then lift
it out.

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure32. Unscrew the power supply

Step6. CD/ DVD Drive(s)-First, unplug the ribbon from the back of the drive.
Once that is completed, pull on the tab securing the drive in place, then push
it out from the inside.

CD / DVD
Drive

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 33. Location of CD / DVD Drive

Step7. Hard Drive - First, unplug the connector at the back of the slot, and
unplug the other end from the motherboard. Also unplug the SATA cable from
the motherboard and the hard drive. The portable hard drive slot is secured
the same way the CD/DVD drive is, with a tab. Pull on the tab, then slide the
slot out.

87
 Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 34. Unplugging the Hard Drive connector

To remove the hard drive from the side of the slot, unscrew the four screws
securing it in place. You must be very careful not to drop the hard drive, since
it is very delicate!

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 35. Removing the hard drive from the side of the slot

Step8. Memory (RAM) - To remove the RAM, push down on both tabs
holding the RAM in place, which are located at both ends of the RAM.

88
 Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 36. Removing the Memory

Step9. Motherboard - The motherboard has seven screws holding it to the

frame, which are indicated by large white circles around them. Remove them
and then lift the motherboard out of the frame.

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 37. Removing the Motherboard

Personal Computer Assembly

Now that you have the skills in disassembling a personal computer, I
believe that you are ready to take another step of this module which is
assembling a personal computer. All you need to do is to follow the step by
step procedures provided in this module.

Step 1. Prepare your workplace

1. Take Inventory:
Before you start, take an inventory of your parts. Do not begin
assembling your computer if you don't have everything you need. Begin the
step-by-step process once you are ready with everything you need.

89
 Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 38. Take inventory of the Different Computer Parts

2. Make Space, Make Time:

Building a PC takes up space - about a dining room table worth. So
make sure you have plenty of working room and a few hours to proceed with
minimal interruption. Work on a flat, stable table top surface, or bare floor,
where you have room to layout all of the items.

3. Prepare Grounding Protection:

Use an inexpensive antistatic wrist strap. Make sure you are wearing
your antistatic wrist strap correctly (it does you no good at all if you do not
wear it!), and you are ready to proceed. Look at Figure 39 for details.

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 39. Wearing the Anti- static Wrist Strap Correctly

90
4. Have the Drivers Ready:
Assuming you have another internet connected PC, download the
latest drivers from the vendors' websites for each component you will be
installing. Sometimes drivers are updated between the time the component
was manufactured and the time you are installing it. It is always best to have
the latest. Copy them to a CD for easy access.

Step 2. Prepare the Motherboard

1. Great care should be taken when installing the motherboard. First, take
the board out of its packaging
and put it on top of the antistatic
bag it came in (see Figure 40).
Remember, you always want to
safeguard your components
from potentially hazardous
static electricity (wear your
strap).

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 40. Motherboard in an Antistatic Bag

2. Before you secure the motherboard onto the PC case/chassis, inspect

it carefully for any visible defects.
3. Next, review the motherboard manual, to make sure you are familiar
with the motherboard layout and understand which socket is which.
Manuals are extremely helpful, usually easy to read, and include
illustrations. Below you can find instructions on how to install the
processor, the heat sink and the memory modules on the motherboard.
You should not place the motherboard in the computer case until you
are told to do so.

Step 3. Install the CPU

1. Use the unlocking mechanism to open the CPU socket which is usually
a lever.
2. Carefully line up the pins and place the chip in its socket; it will fit only
when oriented the proper way. An arrow or a missing pin on one corner
of the chip will show you how to line things up.

91
 3. Align Triangular CPU and socket key marks as shown in Figure 41.
4. Lower the lever to lock the CPU into place.

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 41. Install CPU
Step 4. Install the CPU Heat Sink

1. Follow the manufacturer's directions to install the heat sink and the fan
that will cool the processor. If you bought an OEM CPU and a separate
heat sink, you may need to spread a thin layer of the thermal grease
that came with the heat sink over the chip to ensure proper transfer of
heat (some heat sinks come with this grease already applied).

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 42. Install CPU Heat Sink

3. Attach the clip that holds the heat sink in place keeping in mind that it
may require a fair amount of force. Again, follow the instructions that
came with the heat sink. They will show you how to fit it correctly. If

92
 you are in doubt, you can visit the manufacturer's website for more
information.
4. Plug the CPU fan's power connector into the proper connector on the
motherboard.

Step 5. Install Memory (RAM Modules)

In order to install the memory modules, insert them into the proper
sockets (Figure 43) and push down firmly but evenly until the clips on both
sides of the socket pop into place. If your motherboard supports dual-channel
memory, consult the user manual to determine which pairs of RAM sockets
you should use. The motherboard and the CPU are the brain and nerve
center of your PC, so selecting these components is the most important
decision you'll make.

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 43. Install RAM Memory

Step 6. Place the motherboard into the case

1. Some PC cases have a removable motherboard tray. If yours does,

remove the screws holding it in place and pull it out of the case (Figure 44).

93
 Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 44. Remove Motherboard Tray

2. Note the pattern of the holes in your motherboard (Figure 45), and screw
brass standoffs into the motherboard tray or into the PC case in the correct
locations (ALWAYS check the manual and follow their instructions to the
letter).

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 45. Screw Brass Standoffs Into the Motherboard

3. Check the layout of the sockets on the motherboard, and confirm that the
ports on your motherboard's back panel match the holes on the case's
Input/Output (I/O) shield as shown in figure 46 that is installed in your case. If
necessary, remove the old I/O shield by tapping it firmly a few times with the
butt-end of a screwdriver, and then replace it with the shield that came with
the new motherboard.

4. Carefully position the motherboard on top of the brass standoffs (Figure

47), line up all the holes, and use the screws that accompanied the case to
fasten down the motherboard. If you are using a removable tray in your

94
system, slide the tray and motherboard back into the case and then secure
the tray.

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 46. Case’s I /O Shield

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 47. Mount the Motherboard

Step 7. Connect the Power Supply

Making the proper connections is crucial to successfully assembling

your PC system. Fortunately, manufacturers provide color-coded power
cables and unique connector shapes to make the job easy.

1. First, plug the large ATX power connector (Figure 48) from your power
supply into the matching port on your motherboard. Look Figure X for details.
2. Locate the smaller, square processor power connector (Figure 49) (you
cannot miss it - it is the one sprouting the yellow and black wires) and attach it
to the motherboard. Note: your connector is usually located near the
processor. As always, refer to your motherboard's manual for the exact
locations.

95
3. Use your motherboard user manual and find the description about front-
panel connectors.

Figure 53. Large ATX Connector

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 48. Connect the ATX Power in the Motherboard

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 49. Square Processor Power Connector

NOTE:
You are going to be doing work that requires attention to detail and can be
quite frustrating if you do not go into it with the right attitude.

4. Attach each of the tiny leads from the power and reset switches (Figure
50), the hard-disk activity lights, the PC speaker, and any front-panel USB
and FireWire ports to the corresponding pin on your motherboard. The
needle-nose pliers are useful for manipulating small pieces.

96
 Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 50. Connect the different Leads

Step 8. Install Graphics / Video Cards

1. Begin by removing the backplane cover from the AGP or PCI Express
X16 slot (the metal piece where the monitor connector will emerge)
(Figure 51).

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 51. Remove the backplane cover

2. Install the graphics board in that slot, and then secure the card with a
screw (Figure 52).

97
 Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 52. Install the Graphics Board

Step 9. Install Internal Drives

Now it is time to install your drives. This is an easy process, but it requires
attention to detail.

1. Make any necessary changes to jumpers on the drives before

mounting them in the case. A two-drive system (one or two SATA
(Serial ATA- is a standard hardware interface for connecting hard
drives and CD/DVD drives to a computer) hard drives, plus one parallel
ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) optical drive, for example) is
easy to set up; the SATA drives are jumper less, and the optical drive
can be set as master on its own parallel ATA channel. Many cases
have removable drive rails or cages to house drives.

2. Use the included screws to attach your drives to the rails or cage, and
slide them into the case. For externally accessible drives such as a
DVD recorder, you can save time by installing one drive rail and sliding
the drive in for a test fitting to make sure that its front is flush with the
case (Figure 53).

3. When the drives are installed, connect power and data cables to each
one. Parallel ATA drives use wide, flat data cables that can be installed
only in the correct way. Floppy drives use a similar but smaller cable;
SATA drives use a thin, 1cm-wide data cable. SATA drives use a new
type of power connector that many power supplies don't come with.
Fortunately, many motherboards ship with adapters for converting a

98
 standard four-pin power connector to a SATA power connector (Figure
54).

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 53. Attach your devices

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 54. Connect Power Connector

Step 10. Install the Add- in Cards

1. For each add-in card, you must choose a free PCI slot.

99
 1. Remove its backplane cover to allow access from the rear of the case.
3. Carefully position the card above the slot, and press down firmly to
seat the card (Figure 55).
4. Secure the card with a screw.

Source: www.buildeasypc.com
Figure 55. Add- in Cards

Many motherboards have additional sound connectors or ports housed

on small add-in boards. Some of these plug into slots on the motherboard;
others screw into the back of the case in place of slot covers. Usually the
additional ports are not essential to your PC's operation. For example, if you
install a sound card, you do not need connectors to the motherboard's built-in
sound chip. Check your motherboard manual to determine what each of these
boards does.

Connecting Peripherals of a Personal Computer

When attaching hardware and peripherals of the computer, ensure that

they are connected to the correct locations or ports. For example, some
mouse and keyboard cables use the same type of PS/2 connector. So, you
must know first the different ports that can be found in the back panel of the
computer.

Keep in mind:
1. When attaching cables, never force a connection.
2. Plug in the power cable after you have connected all other cables.

100
 Steps in Connecting Peripherals of a PC

Step 1.Attach the monitor cable to the video port.

Step 2.Secure the cable by tightening the screws on the connector.
Step 3.Plug the keyboard cable into the PS/2 keyboard port.
Step 4.Plug the mouse cable into the PS/2 mouse port.
Step 5.Plug the USB cable into a USB port.
Step 6.Plug the network cable into the network port.
Step 7.Plug the power cable into the power supply.

Source: www.geeks.com
Figure 56.Steps in Connecting Peripherals of a PC

After connecting all the cables into their proper places, figure 57 shows
the appearance of the back panel of your PC.

101
 Source: www.geeks.com
Figure 57. Appearance of the PC’s Back Panel

Rearrange the Procedures

Direction: Rearrange the following procedures in their proper order. Use

numbers to indicate their order of precedence. The first number is done for
you.

A. Personal Computer Disassembly

__7_1. Detaching the Hard Drive
____2. Detaching the power supply
____3. Opening the outer shell / case
____4. Pull Out the Motherboard
____5. Removing the CD / DVD Drives
____6. Removing the CPU fan
____7. Removing the system fan
____8. Unplugging all the cables and wires

B. Personal Computer Assembly

__7_1. Connect the Power Supply
____2. Install Graphics / Video Cards
____3. Install Internal Drives
____4. Install Memory (RAM Modules)

102
____5. Install the Add- in Cards
____6. Install the CPU
____7. Install the CPU Heat Sink
____8. Place the motherboard into the case
____9. Prepare the Motherboard
____10. Prepare your workplace

Performance Test

Direction: Follow and perform the given procedures on Activity A, B and C.

Safety precautions must be observed when working. You will be rated in
accordance with the rubrics provided after the activity:

A. PC Disassembly

103
B. Personal Computer Assembly

C. Connecting PC Peripherals

104
 Rubric for your performance Test

Criteria Percentage Grade

Accuracy 50 %

Adherence to the procedures 20%

Workmanship(applied safety 20%

precautions)

Speed 10%

Performance Rating

105
 INSTALLING OPERATING SYSTEM

Before the installation process undertake, a technician must be aware

of the minimum requirements of a computer hardware that is compatible with
the operating system to be installed. Following the systems’ requirements
means an efficient computer system. The list below shows the windows XP
minimum requirements for installation:

 Pentium 233 Mhz or compatible processor or faster; 300MHZ or faster

recommended
 64MB of RAM minimum; 128MB or more recommended
 4.3GB hard hard disk space or more
 CD-ROM or DVD-ROM
 Super VGA (800X600) or higher-resolution monitor
 Keyboard and mouse

Windows XP Installation

1. Insert the Windows XP CD-ROM and reboot the computer

 If you see a message about press any key to boot the CD, do so now.
Otherwise, you will see a message about Setup inspecting your
system.

Figure 58.Boot from CD

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2. MS-DOS portion of Setup begins

 In the first stage of setup; you will see a series of blue and gray MS-
DOS-based screens.
 In the first step, you will be asked to press F6 if you need to install any
third-party or RAID drivers.

Figure 59.Windows Set-up

3. Welcome to Setup

 Finally, Setup begins. In this step, you can set up XP, launch the
Recovery Console (another, more complicated system recovery tool),
or quit.
 Press ENTER to continue Setup, and it will examine your hard drives
and removable disks.

Figure 60.Welcome to Set-up

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4. Read the license agreement

 Next, you'll have to agree to Microsoft's complex licensing agreement.

Among the highlights: You don't actually own Windows XP and you
can only install it on one PC.
 Hit F8 to continue.

Figure 61.License and Agreement

5. Choose an installation partition

 This crucial step lets you choose where to install XP.

 On a clean install, you will typically install to the C: drive, but you might
have other ideas, especially if you plan to dual-boot with 9x.
 Setup will show you all of your available disks (in this case, just one)
and let you create and delete partitions as needed. So, for example, if
you have one disk, but would like to create two partitions, one for XP
and one for your data, you can do that here.

Figure 62.Choose an Installation Partition

108
6. Select the file system

 If you created a new partition, or wish to change the file system of an

existing partition, you can do so in the next step. NTFS (New
Technology File System) file system is more secured than FAT (File
Allocation System).
 Regardless of which file system you choose, be sure to select one of
the "quick" format options (the top two choices), if you do need to
format, since these will work much more quickly than a full format.

Figure 63.Select the File System

7. Optionally format the partition

 If you did choose to change or format the file system, this will occur
next. First, you'll be asked to verify the format. If you're installing XP on
a system with more than one partition, especially one that still holds
your data on one of the partitions, be sure you're formatting the correct
partition.
 Hit F to continue, and a yellow progress bar will indicate the status of
the format. When this is complete, Setup will again examine your
disks, and create a list of files to copy.

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 Figure 64.Optionally Format the Partition

8. Setup folder copy phase and reboot

 Setup will now copy system files to the system/boot partition(s) you just
created. This will allow the PC to boot from the C: drive and continue
Setup in GUI mode.
 When the file copy is complete, Setup will initialize and save your XP
configuration.
 It will then reboot your PC. When the system reboots, you will probably
see the "Press any key to boot from CD" message again. If this
happens, do not press a key: Setup will now boot from your C: drive. In
the event that you cannot prevent the CD-based Setup from reloading,
eject the CD and reboot. Setup will ask for the CD when needed.

Figure 65.Setup Folder Copy Phase

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9. GUI Setup begins

 Once the system reboots, you will be presented with the GUI Setup
phase, which is much more attractive than the DOS-mode phase. As
you progress through GUI Setup, you can read promotional information
on the right side of the screen about XP.
 Next, your hardware devices are detected. This could take several
minutes.

Figure 66.GUI Setup

10. Regional and language Options

 In the first interactive portion of GUI Setup, you can choose to

customize the regional and language settings that will be used by XP,
as well as the text input language you'd like. Users in the United States
will not normally need to change anything here.
 Click Next to continue.

Figure 67.Regional and Language Options

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11. Personalize your software

 Now, enter your name and your company.

The name you enter is not the same as your user name, incidentally,
so you should enter your real name here (i.e. Rosalie Lujero or
whatever).
 Click Next to continue.

Figure 68.Software Personalization

12. Enter your product key

 Now you must enter the 25-character product key that is located on the
orange sticker found on the back of the CD holder that came with
Windows XP. You cannot install XP without a valid product key.Later
on, you will be asked to activate and optionally register your copy of
Windows XP. A product key can be used to install XP on only one PC.
 Click Next to continue.

Figure 69. Enter Product Key

112
13. Enter a computer name and administrator password

 In the next phase of Setup, you can create a name for your computer
(which is used to identify it on a network) and, optionally in Pro Edition
only, a password for the system Administrator, the person who controls
the PC (this will generally be you, of course).

Figure 70.Enter Computer Name and Administrator Password

14. Supply your date and time settings

 Next, you can supply the date and time, which are auto-set based on
information in your BIOS, and the time zone, which is irritatingly set to
PST, which is where Microsoft is. Change these as appropriate.
 Click Next to continue.

Figure 71.Enter Date and Time Settings

113
15. Network setup

 If you have a networking card or modem, Setup now install the

networking components, which include the client for Microsoft
networks, File and Print Sharing, the Quality of Service (QoS) Packet
Scheduler, and the TCP/IP networking protocol by default.

Figure 72.Network Set-Up

16a. Choose networking settings

 In this phase, you can choose to keep the default settings

(recommended) or enter custom settings.

Note that XP doesn't include the legacy NetBEUI protocol out of

the box. If you want to use this protocol, you will need to install it
later from the XP CD-ROM.

 Click Next to continue.

Figure 73.Choose Networking Settings

114
Windows XP Professional only:

16b. Enter workgroup or domain information

 In Windows XP Professional only, you will be able to select a

workgroup or domain name next. Home Edition doesn't work with
Windows domains, however, and Setup will automatically supply the
workgroup name MSHOME, which you can change later. The default
workgroup name in XP Pro is, imaginatively, WORKGROUP.
 Click Next to continue.

Figure 74.Enter Workgroup or Domain Information

17. Set-up completion

 From this point on, Setup will continue to completion without any
further need for interaction. Setup will now copy files, complete
installation, install your Start Menu items, register system components,
save settings, remove any temporary files needed by Setup, and then
reboot.
 Again, you will probably see the "Press any key to boot from CD"
message on reboot. If this happens, do not press a key, and your new
XP install will boot up. You can remove the XP Setup CD now.

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 Figure 75.Set- Up Completion

18. First boot

 You’ll be greeted by the XP splash screen on first boot (this actually

appears briefly when you rebooted into GUI Setup as well).The splash
screens for XP Pro and Home are subtly different.

Figure 76.First Boot

19. Change display settings

 Users with CRT monitors and some LCDs (such as laptops and flat
panel displays) will see a Display Settings dialog appear, which asks
whether you'd like XP to automatically set the resolution. This will

116
 generally change the resolution from 800 x 600 to 1024 x 768 on a
CRT monitor, or to the native resolution of an LCD display.
 Click OK and let XP change the resolution. Then, accept the settings if
the screen display changes and can be read. If you can't see the
display, it will time out after 30 seconds and return to the sub-optimal
800 x 600 resolution.
 Click OK to accept the screen resolution change.

Figure77.Change Display Settings

20. Welcome to Microsoft Windows

 Now, you are presented with XP's "Out of Box Experience," or OOBE,
which presents a silly wizard to guide you through the final set up of
your PC.
 Click Next to continue.

Figure 78.Welcome to Microsoft Windows

21. Network setup

 In the opening OOBE phase, you are asked to set up your

network/Internet connection, which is required for activation and

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 registration. If you selected the default networking configuration during
Setup and know it will work (because you're connected directly to a
cable modem, perhaps, or are on a local area network), then select
Yes (the default). Otherwise, you can select No and then Skip.
 We'll assume that your network is up and running and select Yes.
 Click Next to continue.

Figure 79.Network Set- up

22. Optionally activate and register Windows

 If you selected Yes in the previous step, you are asked if you'd like to
activate Windows XP. This will tie your copy of XP to the current PC
semi-permanently. Activation requires a connection to the Internet, but
you can perform this step later if you want (and don't worry, XP will
annoyingly remind you of this fact every time you boot the machine
until you do so).

Figure 80.Windows Activation

23. Set up users

 Now, you can set up the user names of the people who will be using
the PC. You will want at least one user (for you), since you shouldn't

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 be logging on as Administrator. Curiously, each user you do create
here has administrative privileges, however, and no password. You
should set up your users correctly with passwords as soon as possible.
 This phase lets you create up to five users. You can create more later,
or manage users, using the User Accounts tool in Control Panel.
 Click Finish when done creating users. At this point, OOBE ends and
you're reading to go.
 Click Finish again.

Figure 81.Set-up Users

24. Logon to Windows XP for the first time

 Click your name, that account will logon and you'll be presented with
the XP desktop. After you create passwords, however, you'll be asked
to enter a password before you can logon.

Figure 82. Set-up Users

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Multiple Choice: Read each question carefully and choose the letter of the
best answer. Write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.

1. Which of the following is not a Windows XP minimum requirement?

a. 128MB RAM or higher c. Lower resolution monitor
b. CD- ROM or DVD ROM
d. 4.3 GB hard disk space or more
2. If you see a message to press any key to boot the CD and you fail to
do so, what do you think will happen?
a. The computer will restart
b. Set up inspecting your system will appear
c. It will be prompted to BIOS setup
d. It will return to boot menu

3. What key should you press if you need to install any third- party or
RAID drivers?
a. F2 c. F2
b. F6 d. F12

4. After reading the license agreement, what function key will press in
order to start the installation?
a. F6 c. F9
b. F8 d. F12

5. Where do we typically install the operating system?

a. Drive C c. External Drive
b. DVD d. Floppy Drive

6. What file system is usually used during installation?

a. FAT c. NTFS
b. FAT32 d. NTFS32

7. Suppose that you will install Windows XP on a system with more than
one partition, what important process should be done?
a. Change the file system
b. Delete the data and files on the different partition
c. Examine the partition
d. Format the correct partition

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 8. When the folder copy phase is complete your system will reboot, what
are you going to do if see the message “Press any key to boot from
CD”?
a. Press any key c. Reboot the system
b. Do not press a key d. Eject the CD

9. What is the next phase after the set up folder copy phase and reboot?
a. GUI set up c. Username setup
b. Software d. Software
personalization

10. What phase will immediately follow after the first boot phase?
a. Welcome to Windows c. Change display setting
b. Network Setup d. Set up users

For you to have a profound knowledge on the overview of what

windows XP is, utilize the internet and watch the following video
presentations:
1. Overview of Windows XP
 http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-
802/an-overview-of-windows-xp/

2. Planning for installation

 http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-
802/planning-a-windows-installation-2/

3. Windows XP installation
http://www.professormesser.com/free-a-plus-training/220-
802/installing-windows-xp-3/

After watching the videos, have a documentation containing the

overview of Windows XP and salient procedures in planning for installation
and Windows XP installation. Use a short white bond paper and be creative
for the documentation.

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Windows XP Installation

Equipment:

Computer unit with CD or DVD drive

AVR / UPS

Materials:

Windows XP Installer

Procedure:
1. Work in triads or quartet (depending on the number of computer
available)
2. Install the Operating System (OS), Windows XP.
3. Take turns in doing the above task.

You will be assessed using the criteria in the score card below.

PERFORMANCE SCORE CARD

Evaluation: Percentage Score

CRITERIA

1. Operating System is installed with no errors. 40%

2. Proper disk partitioning and partition is 40%

performed.
3. Proper use of equipment and materials is 10%
observed.
4. Observance of Safety Precautions. 10%

Performance Rating

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Windows 7 Installation

As a technician you must be able to know the variations or options in

installing an operating system that is compatible with the hardware
requirement of a personal computer. Another operating system available in
the market now is the Windows 7 version. Now, take a tour through the
procedures in installing a Windows 7 operating system. I believe, the
procedures will be very easy for you.

1. Turn your computer on then press Del or F2 (depend on your

computer’s main board) to enter the system BIOS.
2. Go to Boot menu and choose Boot from CD/DVD.

Figure 83.Boot Menu

3. Press F10 to save the configuration and exit BIOS then reset your
computer.

Figure 84.Save configuration settings

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4. Insert Windows 7 DVD into your DVD drive then start up your
computer, Windows 7 will be loading files.

Figure 85.Windows 7 loading files and Start up

5. Select your language, time & currency format, keyboard or input

method and click Next.

Figure86.Language, Time and Currency Set- up

6. Click Install now.

Figure 87.Install Now

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7. Check I accept the license terms and click Next.

Figure 88.License Terms Agreement

8. Click Upgrade if you already have a previous Windows version

or Custom (advanced) if you don’t have a previous Windows version
or want to install a fresh copy of Windows 7.

Figure 89.Windows 7 Options for Installation

125
9. (Skip this step if you chose Upgrade and have only one
partition) Select the drive where you want to install Windows 7 and
click Next. If you want to make any partitions, click Drive options
(advanced), make the partitions and then click Next.

Figure 90.Drive Options

10. It will now start installing Windows 7. The first step, (i.e. Copying
Windows files) was already done when you booted the Windows
7 DVD so it will complete instantly.

Figure 91.Windows 7 Starts Installation

126
11. After completing the first step, it will expand (decompress) the files that
it has been copied.

Figure 92.Expanding Windows Files

12. The third and fourth step will also complete instantly like the first step.

Figure 93.Installing Features and Updates

127
13. After that it will automatically restart after 15 seconds and continue the
setup. You can also click Restart now to restart without any delays.

Figure 94.Restart to Continue Installation

14. After restarting for the first time, it will continue the setup. This is the
last step so it will take the most time than the previous steps.

Figure 95.Completing Installation

128
15. It will now automatically restart again and continue the setup. You can
click Restart now to restart without any delays.

Figure96.First Start Up

16. Type your desired user name in the text-box and click Next. It will
automatically fill up the computer name.

Figure97.Software Personalization

129
17. If you want to set a password, type it in the text-boxes and click Next.

Figure98.Password Set- up

18. Type your product key in the text-box and click Next. You can also skip
this step and simply click Next if you want to type the product key later.
Windows will run only for 30 days if you do that.

Figure 99.Type Windows Product Key

130
19. Select your desired option for Windows Updates

Figure 100. Windows Update

20. Select your time and click Next.

Figure 101. Time and Date Settings

131
21. If you are connected to any network, it will ask you to set the network’s
location.

Figure 102. Windows 7 Set- up Complete

Figure 103. Preparing Desktop

132
 Hands- on Activity:

You are tasked to reformat / install an operating system particularly

Windows 7, however, during the process of installation a problem occurred
the machine / computer did not boot from CD. What do you think might be the
reason for this unplanned incident? Your task now is to demonstrate the
correct procedures to solve and respond to this unplanned event in
accordance to the established procedures.
You will work in quartet or triads (depending on the number of
computers) to solve this problem. Your output will be rated according to the
following criteria:
PERFORMANCE SCORE CARD

CRITERIA PERCENTAGE SCORE

Accuracy 50 %

(Adherence to the correct procedure)

Workmanship 30 %

(Adherence to OHS policy, neatness and

organization of materials used)

Speed 20 %

PERFORMANCE RATING 100%

133
 Before implementing any contingency procedures in any unplanned
events you must have a deeper understanding in obtaining approval from
appropriate personnel. Your task now is to do the following:

1. Watch video presentation on the said topic and have a proper

documentation of the procedures in obtaining approval from the
appropriate personnel.
2. Interview a person in the field to acquire the knowledge (procedures)
and skills on the said competency.

Windows 7 Installation

Equipment:

Computer unit with CD or DVD drive

AVR / UPS

Materials:

Windows 7 Installer

Procedure:
1. Work in triads or quartet (depending on the no. of computer available)
2. Install the Operating System (OS), Windows 7.
3. Take turns in doing the above task.

You will be assessed using the criteria in the score card below.

134
 PERFORMANCE SCORE CARD

CRITERIA Percentage Score

1. Operating System is installed with no errors. 40%

2. Proper disk partitioning and partition is 40%

performed.
3. Proper use of equipment and materials is 10%
observed.
4. Observance of Safety Precautions. 10%

PERFORMANCE RATING

135
BASIC COMPUTER CONFIGURATION SETUP

Configuration is the way a system is set up, or the assortment of

components that make up the system. Configuration can refer to
either hardware or software, or the combination of both.

Basic Input / Output System (BIOS)

The Basic Input Output System, usually referred to as BIOS, is

software stored on a small memory chip on the motherboard.

BIOS instruct the computer on how to perform a number of basic

functions such as booting and keyboard control. BIO is also used to identify
and configure the hardware in a computer such as the hard drive, optical
drive, CPU, memory, etc.

Figure 104.BIOS Set- up

136
 The BIOS is accessed and configured through the BIOS Setup Utility.
The BIOS Setup Utility is, for all reasonable purposes, the BIOS itself. All
available options in BIOS are configurable via the BIOS Setup Utility. The
BIOS Setup Utility is accessed in various ways depending on your computer
or motherboard make and model.
BIOS access and configuration on PC systems is independent of
any operating system because the BIOS is part of the motherboard hardware.
It doesn't matter if a computer is running Windows 7, Windows Vista,
Windows XP, Linux, UNIX, or no operating system at all - BIOS functions
outside of the operating system environment and is no way dependent upon
it.
BIOS contain a number of hardware configuration options that can be
changed through the setup utility. Saving these changes and restarting the
computer applies the changes to the BIOS and alters the way BIOS instructs
the hardware to function. The following list shows the things you can do in
most BIOS systems:

Change the Boot Order Enable or Disable the Computer Logo

Load BIOS Setup Defaults Enable or Disable the Quick Power
Remove a BIOS Password On Self Test (POST)
Create a BIOS Password Enable or Disable the CPU Internal
Change the Date and Time Cache
Change Floppy Drive Settings Enable or Disable the Caching of
Change Hard Drive Settings BIOS
Change CD/DVD/BD Drive Settings Change CPU Settings
View Amount of Memory Installed Change Memory Settings
Change the Boot Up NumLock Status Change System Voltages

Device Drivers

Now that you successfully installed the operating system, you’ll need to
configure the devices such as Video Cards, Network Interface Cards, Sound
Cards, etc by installing the device drivers of each. In many cases, if Windows
recognizes the device, drivers will be installed automatically. In some cases,
generic drivers are installed so that the devices will work properly.

137
 Drivers are small software programs that help the operating system
use or “drive” the device. Whenever a device doesn’t work properly, ask if the
proper driver has been installed.

The procedures listed below describe how to obtain and install drivers
for hardware devices on a Microsoft Windows 2000-based computer.

Step 1: Determine the Hardware Manufacturer

If you do not know the manufacturer of the device for which you want to install
the driver, follow these steps to determine the manufacturer:

1. On the desktop, right-click My Computer, and then click Manage.

Figure 105. Manage My Computer

2. Under System Tools, click Device Manager.

The devices that are installed on the computer are listed in the right
pane.

138
 Device Manager

Figure 106. Device Manager

3. In the right pane, expand the category of the device that you want to
configure. For example, expand Display adapters.

NOTE: The device may be listed under other devices.

Expanded
Device Category

Figure 107. Expanded Device Category

139
4. Right-click the device for which you want to install the driver, and then
click Properties.

NOTE: The device may appear as Unknown device or as a generic

device.

Figure 108. Device Properties

5. Click the General tab. Make a note of the manufacturer and model of
the device.

Figure 109. General Tab

140
 6. Click Cancel, and then quit Computer Management.

NOTE: If the device is not displayed in Device Manager, or the

device is listed as an "Unknown device," contact the computer
or device manufacturer to obtain more information about the
device.

Step 2: Obtain the Driver

To obtain the latest driver, use the following list of possible sources for
the driver, in the order in which they are presented.

 Original Computer Manufacturer

If the device was installed by your computer manufacturer, contact the
manufacturer of your computer to find out how to obtain, download, and install
the latest drivers for the device.

 Device Manufacturer

Contact the manufacturer of the device to inquire about how to obtain,

download, and install the latest drivers for the device.

 Chipset Manufacturer

Contact the chipset manufacturer of the device to find out how to

obtain, download, and install the latest drivers for the device. It is best to first
contact the manufacturer of the device for the drivers before you contact the
chipset manufacturer.

For example, if your display adapter uses a NVIDIA chipset, first contact the
manufacturer of the display adapter. If you cannot contact the display adapter
manufacturer or if the manufacturer does not have a driver, contact NVIDIA.

Some examples of chipset manufacturers (and their Web sites) include:

 NVIDIA (display adapters)
 PCTEL, Inc. (modems)

 Installation CD or Floppy Disks

If you have the original driver CD or floppy disks that were included
with the computer or device, and if no other source for the drivers is available,

141
use the original driver that is included with the computer or device.

NOTE: Whenever possible, try to first contact the Original Equipment

Manufacturer (OEM), device manufacturer, or chipset manufacturer to obtain
the latest version of the driver.

Step 3: Install the Driver

 The driver files that you download from the OEM, device manufacturer,
or chipset manufacturer differ depending on how the driver is
packaged by the manufacturer.
 If the file is an executable program, run the program to extract the files.
If the file is in .zip format, you can use a third-party utility such as
WinZip to extract the files. For more information about how to extract
the driver files, see the instructions that are provided by the
manufacturer of the driver.
 The driver may use a setup program. The driver package may contain
raw driver files, or it may contain only raw driver files. Some examples
include .inf files, and .sys files. To install the driver, use one of the
following methods as appropriate to your situation.

 Driver with a Setup or Installation Program

If the driver uses a setup or installation program, run the program to
install the driver. For more information about how to do this, see the
documentation or contact the driver manufacturer.

 Device Is Displayed in Device Manager

1. On the desktop, right-click My Computer, and then click Manage.
2. Under System Tools, click Device Manager. The devices that are
installed on the computer are listed in the right pane.
3. Expand the category of the device that you want to configure. For
example, expand Modems. NOTE: The device may be listed
under other devices.
4. Right-click the device for which you want to install the driver, and then
click Properties.
NOTE: The device may be displayed as Unknown device, or as a
generic device.
5. Click the Driver tab, and then click Update Driver. The Upgrade Device
Driver wizard starts.

142
 6. Click Next.
7. Do one of the following:
o Click Search for a suitable driver for my device
(recommended), and then click Next.
-or-
o Click Display a list of the known devices for this device so
that I can choose a specific driver, and then click Next.
Click Have Disk, click Browse, locate the .inf files that you
downloaded in Step 2: Obtain the Driver, click an .inf file, and then
click Open.

8. Follow the wizard instructions to install the driver.

9. Restart the computer.

 Device Is Not Displayed in Device Manager

Use the Add New Hardware wizard in Control Panel to install drivers for
non-Plug and Play devices. You may have to use this method to install certain
modems, serial ports, or printer ports.
1. Click Start, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.
2. Double-click Add/Remove Hardware.
3. Click Next.
4. Click Add/Troubleshoot a device, and then click Next.
5. Do one of the following:
o Click Yes, search for new hardware, and then click Next.
-or-
o Click No, I want to select the hardware from a list, and then
click Next.
6. Follow the wizard instructions to install the driver.
7. Restart the computer.

143
Installing Device Drivers

Material: Installation CD
Direction: Given an installation CD, perform installation of a device driver.
Check the quality of your work undertaken in accordance with the established
procedures thru the Performance Score Card below.

PERFORMANCE SCORE CARD

Performance Criteria Criteria Grade

1. The system is correctly started. 20%

2. The Installation CD is properly inserted. 20%

3. Handling and safekeeping of installation CD is observed. 20%

4. The instructions how to install device drivers are accurately

20%
followed.

5. The device drivers are successfully installed 20%

PERFORMANCE RATING

144
Lesson3. CONDUCT TEST ON THE INSTALLED COMPUTER SYSTEM

In the previous lesson, you were introduced with all the necessary
knowledge and skills on installation of computer devices and operating
system. Now, after executing the correct procedures I am sure that
installation is a very easy task for you. Those skills will be very essential for
the next lesson.
In the next phase of your learning it will focus in conducting test on the
installed computer components. After reading all the required topics and
performing the essential skills you must be able to:
 Follow OHS policies and procedures in conducting tests
 Check circuits and systems being isolated using specified testing
procedures
 Test devices, systems and/or installation to determine its conformity with
the requirements
 Undertake final inspections on the installed devices, systems to ensure
conformity with the requirements
 Accomplish technical reports on the tests conducted
 Follow procedures in forwarding documentation to appropriate personnel
and/or authority on the test conducted.

TESTING INSTALLEDEQUIPMENT / DEVICES (COMPONENTS)

As computer technician you will need a good understanding of the
health and safety regulations from early on in your career, so that you
understand the good practices demanded by law. In particular, you need to:
 report any accidents
 take reasonable care of your own health and safety when
moving heavy components
 not cause any electrical hazards
 make sure that workstations meet safety requirements.

145
You need to adhere to health and safety regulations as they will help to
protect you and others and will avoid any unnecessary legal action for
reckless and unsafe working practices. If you identify any health and safety
problems, you should tell your line manager or the health and safety
representative immediately.

The most basic test is to switch the system on to check it starts without
errors. ICT professionals are also likely to use tools and utilities to check that
all is well with the system after an installation.

The Use of Diagnostic Tools in testing installed hardware components

and other peripherals
Diagnostic tools are used to test and diagnose equipment. Diagnostic
tools include the following:
 Digital multimeter is a device that can take many types of
measurements. It tests the integrity of circuits and the quality of
electricity in computer components. A digital multimeter displays the
information on an LCD or LED.

 A loopback adapter, also called a loopback plug, tests the basic

functionality of computer ports. The adapter is specific to the port that
you want to test.

 The toner probe, is a two-part tool. The toner part is connected to a

cable at one end using specific adapters, such as an RJ-45, coaxial, or
metal clips. The toner generates a tone that travels the length of the
cable. The probe part traces the cable. When the probe is in near
proximity to the cable to which the toner is attached, the tone can be
heard through a speaker in the probe.

Source: www.fluke-87.com
Figure 110. Diagnostic Tools

146
Software Tools

Like hardware tools, there are a variety of software tools that can be
used to help technicians pinpoint and troubleshoot problems. Many of these
tools are free and several come with the Windows operating system.

Disk Management Tools

Software tools help diagnose computer and network problems and determine
which computer device is not functioning correctly. A technician must be able
to use a range of software tools to diagnose problems, maintain hardware,
and protect the data stored on a computer.

You must be able to identify which software to use in different situations. Disk
management tools help detect and correct disk errors, prepare a disk for data
storage, and remove unwanted files.

The following are some disk management tools:

 FDISK: A command-line tool that creates and deletes partitions on a

hard drive. The FDISK tool is not available in Windows XP, Vista, or 7.
It has been replaced with the Disk Management tool.
 Disk Management Tool: Initializes disks, creates partitions, and
formats partitions.
 Format: Prepares a hard drive to store information.
 ScanDisk or CHKDSK: Checks the integrity of files and folders on a
hard drive by scanning the file system. These tools might also check
the disk surface for physical errors.
 Defrag: Optimizes space on a hard drive to allow faster access to
programs and data.
 Disk Cleanup: Clears space on a hard drive by searching for files that
can be safely deleted.
 System File Checker (SFC): A command-line tool that scans the
operating system critical files and replaces files that are corrupted.

Use the Windows 7 boot disk for troubleshooting and repairing

corrupted files. The Windows 7 boot disk repairs Windows system files,
restores damaged or lost files, and reinstalls the operating system.

147
Test procedures

A test procedure is a set of steps to guide you through what needs to

be done to thoroughly test the installation. It is designed to help you work
more effectively and to make sure you test everything that needs testing.

Test procedures are created in-house and could include these steps:
1. Gathering test information. The first step is to run the tests required by
the procedure and find out what happens. You should record all the results of
your tests in a log so that you know which pass and which fail, thereby
requiring further action.
2. Validating the test information. The next step is to check the data you
gathered from the tests to make sure it is correct. This is usually done by
running the tests again.
3. Responding to test information. This step is important because you need
to be able to recognize when a test shows problems or is successful. For
example, if ping is used to test a network connection then ‘Request timed out’
shows the test was not successful.
4. Checking specification. The final step is an important end to testing. You
need to check the specification for the installation to make sure that it has
been met. For example, if a user requested an upgrade to make their display
run at 1920 x 1200, then the ICT professional should check that the graphics
card and screen can do this.

External Visual Inspection

The external visual inspection consists of a quick inspection of the
exterior of the computer, the monitor, the keyboard, any peripherals, and
cables. While performing the visual inspection, make any necessary
corrections. To perform the external visual inspection, perform the following
steps:

1. Turn off the computer, the monitor, and all peripherals.

2. Verify that all power cables are properly connected to the computer,
the monitor and peripherals, and their power sources.
3. Verify that the keyboard and mouse interface cables are firmly
attached to the proper connectors on the back of the computer.
 For a PS/2-compatible mouse, the keyboard and mouse
interface cable connectors are identical except for their labels.

148
  For a serial mouse, the mouse interface cable must be firmly
attached to one of the serial port connectors, and its captive
screws must be secure enough to ensure a firm connection.
4. Verify that network cables (if present) are properly attached.
5. Verify that any devices attached to the serial and parallel port
connectors are properly connected.
 Each of the serial and parallel port interface cables must be
firmly attached to an appropriate connector on the back of the
computer as well as to the interface connector on the device.
The captive screws that secure these connectors at each end of
the interface cable must be secure enough to ensure a firm
connection.
6. Verify that the video interface cable is firmly attached to the video
connector on the back panel or to a video expansion card, and also to
the connector on the back of the monitor. For proper connection of the
video monitor, see the documentation for the monitor.
7. Inspect all external monitor controls for any obvious damage or
improper settings. For proper settings of the video monitor controls,
see the documentation for the monitor.
8. Inspect the keyboard to ensure that no keys are sticking. If one or
more keys are sticking, it may be necessary to replace the keyboard.
9. Inspect the exterior of the computer, including all controls and
indicators, and all user-accessible data storage devices for any signs
of physical damage. Does the inspection reveal any problems?

Yes. Proceed to the appropriate procedure in "Removing and Replacing

Parts."
No. Proceed to "Observing the Boot Routine."

Observing the Boot Routine

After you have performed an external visual inspection as described in
the previous section, you should boot the system and, while the boot routine
is running, observe the system for any indications of problems.

NOTE: Most of the steps in this procedure require observation of

system functions and indications, some of which can occur
simultaneously. It may be necessary to reboot the system several times
to complete all of these steps.

149
To observe problem indications during the boot routine, perform the following
steps:

1. If the system is off, turn on all peripherals and the computer.

2. Check the power supply fan.
Does the fan run normally?
o Yes. Proceed to step 3.
o No. Troubleshoot the system power supply.

3. Watch the <Num Lock>, <Caps Lock>, and <Scroll Lock> indicators on
the upper-right corner of the keyboard. After all three indicators flash
momentarily, and following a long pause (approximately 30 seconds),
the Num Lock indicator should light up and remain on (unless the Num
Lock option is set to Off in the System Setup program).

Do these indicators flash on and off within approximately 10 seconds

after the boot routine starts?
o Yes. Proceed to step 4.
o No. Troubleshoot the system power supply. If the troubleshooting
procedure indicates that the system power supply is operational,
troubleshoot the memory.

4. During the boot routine, observe the system for any of the following
indications:

o Beep codes — A beep code is a series of beeps that indicates

an error condition.

o System error messages — these messages can indicate

problems or provide status information.

o Diskette-drive and hard-disk drive access indicators — These

indicators light up in response to data being transferred to or
from the drives. If either of these indicators fails to light up
during the boot routine, troubleshoot the diskette drive or hard-
disk drive subsystem, as appropriate.

5. Observe the monitor screen for the Diagnostics menu.

150
Internal Visual Inspection

NOTICE: Before you proceed with the internal visual inspection

described in this section, ensure that the user has saved all open files
and exited all open application programs if possible.

A simple visual inspection of a computer’s interior hardware can often

lead to the source of a problem, such as a loose expansion card, cable
connector, or mounting screw. To perform the internal visual inspection,
perform the following steps:
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and
disconnect all the AC power cables from electrical outlets.

CAUTION: Before beginning to work inside the computer,

disconnect the power supply from the power source and the
power supply cables from the power supply.

2. Remove the computer’s right side cover.

CAUTION: The heat sink assembly can get extremely hot during
system operations. Be sure that it has had sufficient time to cool
before touching it.

CAUTION: When handling the heat sink assembly, take care to

avoid sharp edges on the heat sink.

3. Verify that the chips, expansion cards, and SEC cartridge and heat sink
assembly or assemblies are fully seated in their sockets or
connectors.
4. To ensure that the chips are fully seated in their sockets, press firmly
on the top of each chip.
5. Verify that all jumpers are set correctly.
6. Check all cable connectors inside the computer to verify that they are
firmly attached to their appropriate connectors.
7. Reinstall the computer cover.
8. Reconnect the computer and any attached peripherals to their power
sources, and turn them on.

151
 Suppose that you are in the workshop carrying out hardware
installations, the owner are very impressed with you. There has been a lot of
telephone time spent recently explaining to customers how to test installed
components of their computer systems. The shop has decided to create their
own video that will be uploaded to the website and YouTube. You have been
asked to create this video.

1. Create a video to demonstrate how to install the hardware

components. Make sure you include everything you need to doto work
safely.

2. Show how to configure any device installed in the computer.

3. Create another video on the following:

a. Undertake final inspection on the assembled computer system

for functionality. This will be o test that the newly installed
hardware components work without problems;
b. Accomplish technical reports on the tests conducted; and
c. Follow procedures in forwarding documentation to appropriate
personnel or authority

152
Test I. Identification

Direction: Identify the terms being described in the following sentences.

1. These are mobile computers that are very handy to use.

2. They are computers designed to provide services to client machines in a
computer network.
3. They are also called mid-range systems or workstations.
4. A computer with a microprocessor and its central processing unit it.
5. They fall in the category of laptops, but are inexpensive and relatively
smaller in size.
6. A type of computer which is intended be used on a single location.
7. They use digital circuits and are designed to operate on two states,
namely bits 0 and 1.
8. Computers that have the capacities to host multiple operating systems
and operate as a number of virtual machines and can substitute for
several small servers.
9. It is a handheld computer and popularly known as a palmtop.
10. These computers can be worn on the body and are often used in the
study of behavior modeling and human health.
11. It is considered as the most important program that runs on a computer.
12. It is composed of a device that accepts data and instructions from the
user or from another computer system.
13. Any piece of computer hardware that displays results after the computer
has processed the input data that has been entered.
14. Any apparatus for recording computer data in a permanent or semi-
permanent form.
15. It protects a computer network from unauthorized access.
16. Type of network that connect larger geographic areas, such as Florida,
the United States, or the world.
17. This is an internetworking system capable of joining together two
networks that use different base protocols.
18. It is consists of two or more computers that are linked in order to share
resources (such as printers and CD-ROMs), exchange files, or allow
electronic communications.
19. It is a small, simple, inexpensive device that joins multiple computers
together.
20. A device filters data traffic at a network boundary.

153
Test II. True or false

Direction: Write TRUE if the statement is correct and FALSE otherwise.

1. Always use an anti-static wrist strap when working on a computer

(except when working on monitors)
2. Always disconnect a computer from the AC power and from any
powered peripherals while you are working on it.
3. Always grasp a metal part of the computer chassis with your bare hand
before you touch anything inside. Do this even if you are wearing an
anti-static wristband.
4. Always handle electronic components by a non-conducting (non-
metallic) edge. Don't touch the pins or other connectors.
5. Always use a UL-approved surge protector or an Uninterruptible Power
Supply that incorporates surge and spike protection
6. Never eat, drink, or smoke while working on a computer.
7. Whenever you purchase software or hardware for your computer, you
should first make sure your computer supports the system
requirements.
8. The speed of a computer's processor chip (technically known as its
"clock speed") in measured in gigahertz (GHz).
9. A computer's graphics system determines how well it can work with
visual output.
10. Today 40GB is an absolute minimum hard drive size for a new
computer running Windows 7.
11. When attaching cables, never force a connection.
12. BIOS instruct the computer on how to perform a number of basic
functions such as booting and keyboard control.
13. The external visual inspection consists of a quick inspection of the
interior of the computer.
14. Disk management tools help detect and correct disk errors.
15. The most basic test is to switch the system on to check it starts without
errors.

154
Test III. Multiple Choices

Direction: Read each questions carefully and write the letter of the best
answer.

1. These are small software programs that help the operating system
use the device.
a. Installer c. Driver
b. Application d. BIOS

2. Which of the following is software shared on a small memory chip on

the motherboard?
a. Installer c. driver
b. Application d. BIOS

3. It is the way to set up a system or the assortment of components that

make up the system.
a. Configuration c. Driver
b. Set up d. Installation

4. Which of the following is not a Windows XP minimum requirement?

a. 128MB RAM or higher
b. CD- ROM or DVD ROM
c. Lower resolution monitor
d. 4.3 GB hard disk space or more

5. If you see a message to press any key to boot the CD and you fail to
do so, what do you think will happen?
a. The computer will restart
b. Set up inspecting your system will appear
c. It will be prompted to BIOS setup
d. It will return to boot menu

6. What key should you press if you need to install any third- party or
RAID drivers?
a. F2 c. F9
b. F6 d. F12
7. Where do we typically install the operating system?
a. Drive C
b. DVD
c. External Drive
d. Floppy Drive

8. Suppose that you will install Windows XP on a system with more than
one partition, what important process should be done?

155
 a. Change the file system
b. Delete the data and files on the different partition
c. Examine the partition
d. Format the correct partition

9. What file system is usually used during installation?

a. FAT
b. FAT32
c. NTFS
d. NTFS32

10. Which of the following is a connector on the back of a computer or

other device?
a. Modem
b. Port hub
c. Router
d. Network Gateway

156
Test IV. Matching Type

Direction: Match column A with Column B and write your answer on a

separate sheet of paper.

11.
A. B.
12. a) Adapter
1) It serves as the brain of computer.
2) Printed-circuit boards (also called interface b) CD- ROM
13.
cards) that enable the computer to use a c) CPU
peripheral
14. device d) Flash Drive
3) Also called read/write memory e) Floppy disk
15.
4) Small portable disk drive usually used for f) Microphone
backing up files g) Monitor
16. board of a computer
5) Main h) Motherboard
6) Also called diskette i) Mouse
17. j) Multitasking
7) Acts as a pointing device
8) Device that makes sounds, clips and any k) Optical Discs
18.
audio materials be heard. l) PDA
9) Component
19. that reads and record data in m) Power supply
CDs and DVDs. n) Printer
10) It20.is a visual device that displays the o) RAM
information p) Register
21. q) ROM
11) Plug- and play portable storage device
12) Prints r) Speaker
22. text and illustrations in paper
13) Converts AC into DC s) Tablet
14) Allows more than one program to run t) Zip Drive
concurrently
15) Handheld computer

157
 SKILLS TEST

Direction: Listed below are some of the most important skills that you must gain
in order to render quality service when you enter the real world of Computer
Hardware Servicing. Read the skills carefully. Write “YES” if you are familiar with
the skill and “NO” if not. Feel free to answer each skill. Write your answers in your
notebook.

Skills in Computer Hardware Servicing YES NO

I can open a computer case.
I can connect the mouse.
I can connect the keyboard.
I can connect the monitor.
I can apply occupational health and safety precautions while
working.
I can remove the system fan.
I can detach the power supply from the system unit.
I know how to remove the RAM from the motherboard.
I can remove the hard drive from the system unit.
I can install the power supply.
I know how to install the motherboard.
I can install the internal drives in a system unit.
I know how to attach RAM in the memory socket.
I can install CD / DVD drives.
I know how to install an operating system
I know how to configure a hardware components
I know the procedures in inspecting operating systems and
software components

158
Books and Articles and Printed Materials:

Barry Press, Marcia Press, “PC Upgrade and Repair Bible,

Desktop Edition”., Wiley Publishing Inc., 10475 Crosspoint
Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 46256

Ron Gilster, “PC Repair Bench Book”., Wiley Publishing Inc., 10475
Crosspoint Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 46256

Barry Press, Marcia Press, “PC Upgrade and Repair Bible, Desktop
Edition”., Wiley Publishing Inc., 10475 Crosspoint Boulevard,
Indianapolis, IN 46256

Ronaldo V. Ramilo And Deover M. Pasco “K to 12 Basic Education

Curriculum- Technology and Livelihood Education Learning Module –
Computer Hardware Serviciing”

Marigen N. Leosala, Bobby P. Caoagdan, Ronaldo V. Ramilo, and Rosalie

P. Lujero “Technology and Livelihood Education- Information and
Communications Technology Learners Manual – Grade 7 & 8”

Efraim Turban, R. Kelly Rainer Jr., Richarrd Potter “Introduction to Information

Technology” 3rd Edition- 2005 at Rosewood Drive, Denver, John
Wisley and Sons(Asia) Pte. Ltd

Electronic Resources:

“Computer Memory Types” Retrieved from

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/computer-memory-types.html

“Measurements for Memory & Storage” Retrieved from

http://www.athropolis.com/popup/c-comp2.htm

“Fundamentals of PC repair” Retrieved from http://www.ustudy.in/ce/hard/u1

159
“Occupational Health and Safety Precautions” Retrieved from
http://danreb.com/sites/default/files/CHS-NC2%20Reviewer%20-
%20With%20Oral%20Questioning_0.pdf

“Puzzles for Activities” Retrieved from

http://puzzlemaker.discoveryeducation.com/CrissCrossSetupForm.asp

“Occupational Safety Precautions” Retrieved from

http://info.psu.edu.sa/psu/cis/kalmustafa/CISCO/Lecture%20Slides/ITE
_PC_v40_Chapter2.pdf

“Computer Hardware Basics” Retrieved from

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6N7bqBsFL0w-

“How to install Computer Hardware” Retrieved from

http://www.wikihow.com/Install-Computer-Hardware-

“How to install Computer components” Retrieved from

http://www.directron.com/howtoupsys.html-

“Tool Selection” Retrieved from

http://www.bechtel.com/assets/files/Environmental/ToolboxSafetyTopic
s/20 /10/ProperToolSelection.pdf

“PC Assembly” Retrieved from http://www.iml.uts.edu.au/assessment-

futures/designing/assembling.html

“Computer Basics” Retrieved from

http://www.instructables.com/id/Disassemble-a-Computer/-

“PC Hardware, Networking ,Operating Systems and Troubleshooting”

Retrieved from www.professormesser.com-

160
Adapters- These are printed-circuit boards that enables the computer to use
a peripheral device for which it does not have the necessary connections or
circuit boards.

Analog Computers- It uses continuous variables for mathematical

operations and utilizes mechanical or electrical energy.

Bridge is a device filters data traffic at a network boundary

Digital Computers- They use digital circuits and are designed to operate on
two states, namely bits 0 and 1

Digital multimeter is a device that can take many types of measurements. It

tests the integrity

Drivers- are small software programs that help the operating system use or
“drive” the device

Ethernet switch is a device that gathers the signals from devices that are
connected to it

Hard disk drive- Is a magnetic storage device that is installed inside the
computer.

Hardware-These are the tangible component of a computer system.

Hazard-Is a situation in the workplace that has the potential to harm the
health and safety of people or to damage plant and equipment.

Hub- is a small, simple, inexpensive device that joins multiple computers

together

Hybrid Computers- a combination of both digital and analog computers

161
Loopback adapter- is also called a loopback plug, tests the basic
functionality of computer ports

Mainframe Computers- these are computers have the capacities to host

multiple operating systems and operate as a number of virtual machines and
can substitute for several small servers

Microcomputers- A computer with a microprocessor and its central

processing unit it is known as a microcomputer

Minicomputers- are also called mid-range systems or workstations

Motherboard- is the main circuit board of a computer containing all the

essential parts of a PC.

Network firewall - protects a computer network from unauthorized access

Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs)- is a handheld computer and popularly

known as a palmtop

Smart board - Type of display screen that has a touch sensitive transparent
panel covering the screen.

Static electricity - is an accumulation of electric charge on an insulated

body.

Servers- They are computers designed to provide services to client machines

in a computer network

162
ATA- Advance Technology Attachment

BIOS- Basic Input Output System

CD- Compact Disc

CHS- Computer Hardware Servicing

CRT- Cathode Ray Tube

ESD- Electro Static Discharge

DVD- Digital Versatile Disc

FAT- File Allocation Table

GB- Giga Byte

HDD- Hard Disk Drive

LAN- Local Area Networking

LCD- Liquid Crystal Display

LED- Light Emitting Diode

MB- Mega Byte

NTFS- New Technology File System

OHS- Occupational Health and Safety

OS- Operating System

PDA- Personal Digital Assistant

163
PPE- Personal Protective Equipment

RAM- Random Access Memory

ROM- Read Only Memory

SATA- Serial Advance Technology Attachment

USB- Universal Serial Bus

WAN- Wide Area Network

VGA- Video Graphic Array

164
 richardrrr.blogspot.com

MODULE 4:
DIAGNOSE AND
TROUBLESHOOT
COMPUTER SYSTEMS (DT)

Content Standard Performance Standard

The learner demonstrates The learner independently diagnoses

understanding of the underlying and troubleshoots computer systems
concepts and principles on as prescribed in the TESDA Training
diagnosing and troubleshooting of
Regulation.
computer systems.

Number of Sessions (Time Allotment): 60 hrs.

165
 In this module, there will be four (4) major topics that you will
encounter: (1) be plan and prepare diagnosis of computer system errors;
(2) diagnose and configure computer systems and networks; (3) inspect and
test the configured computer systems and networks; and (4) test systems and
networks. The four major topics contains sub-topics which all leads to
diagnose and troubleshoot computer systems. This module contains what
to KNOW, what to PROCESS, what to REFLECT and UNDERSTAND as well
as what to TRANSFER. The competencies for this module are:

LO 1. Plan and prepare for diagnosis of computer systems errors

 Follow OHS procedures in planning and preparing diagnosis of computer
systems errors
 Determine the computer systems errors using manual and software
diagnosis

LO 2. Diagnose and configure computer systems and networks

 Follow OHS procedures in planning and preparing diagnosis of computer
systems and network errors
 Identify the diagnosed computer systems and network errors based on
the job requirements
 Configure computer systems and networks

LO 3. Inspect and test the configured computer systems and networks

 Follow OHS procedures in inspecting and testing configured computer
systems and networks
 Inspect configured computer systems and networks
 Replace defective components
 Reinstall defective computer systems
 Identify network errors
 Repair network errors based on standard procedures
 Test the configured computer systems and networks

LO 4. Test Systems and Networks

 Follow OHS procedures in testing systems and networks
 Test computer systems and networks in accordance with the job
requirements
 Accomplish technical reports on the tests conducted

166
 In order to master the above listed competencies, you must be
knowledgeable of the topics under what to KNOW, perform activities required
under what to PROCESS, accomplish additional meaningful tasks under what
to REFLECT and UNDERSTAND and finally show some evidences of your
learning by transferring what you have learned in a different context under
what to TRANSFER.

You will be challenged to dig deeper into your prior knowledge and
previous experiences about computer hardware servicing.

Instruction:
 Read each of the statements in the left-hand column of the chart.
 Place a check on the column that indicates your answers.

Knowledgeable Have a No
Little Knowledge
Knowledge at All
Plan and prepare work to ensure
occupational health and safety
(OHS) policies and procedures
are followed
Obtain materials, tools,
equipment and testing devices
needed to conform with job
requirements
Interpret work instructions
according to job requirements
Obtain computer
components/devices/systems and
determines its location prior to
installation
Install
equipment/devices/systems in
accordance with job requirements
Check/Test devices/systems
and/or installations to determine
the conformity to job
requirements.
Check computer systems and
networks for configuration in
accordance with specifications

167
and requirements
Diagnose fault or problem in the
computer systems and networks
in line with standard operating
procedures (SOP)
Configure the identified systems
and networks based on
specifications and job
requirements
Inspect and test configured
computer systems and networks
in conformity with manufacturer's
instructions/manual
Correct/adjust components or
parts of computer systems and
networks in accordance with job
requirements
Test computer systems and
networks to ensure safe
operation
Perform scheduled/periodic
maintenance in accordance with
manufacturer's requirements
Make needed
repairs/replacements in
accordance with established
procedures, when necessary
Document tasks undertaken in
accordance with SOP
Clean and clear worksite of all
surplus/excess materials in
accordance with company SOP

168
 LESSON 1: PLAN AND PREPARE FOR DIAGNOSIS OF COMPUTER
SYSTEMS ERRORS

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Personal Protective Equipment

Proper preparation is the key to a successful work. Before you begin,

make sure that you have the tools you will need, and secure a clear well-lit
workplace. Gather all the components you’ll be using and unpack them at the
same time. Always keep in mind that personal protection is one of the traits of
a good computer technician.

Types of personal protective devices

1. Anti-static devices
2. Power surge protectors
3. Personal equipment

Anti-static devices
Devices designed to protect the computer from static electricity.

Source: www.desktopreality.com
Source: www.desktopreality.com
Anti-static Mat
Anti-static Wrist Strap

169
 Source: www.desktopreality.com Source: www.rapidonline.com
Anti-static Bag Anti-static Spray

Power surge protectors

Devices designed to protect the computer from sudden power surges
from intermittent power sources.
Examples:
1. AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulator)

Source: www.neopower.com

2. UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply)

Source: www.amazon.co.uk

170
Personal Equipment

small paint brush

screw drivers

pliers and tweezers

compressed air

handheld vacuum

171
Directions: Perform the activity below.

 Choose a partner
 Do a simulation exercise
o One will act out the role of a computer teacher.
o The other will be the student
Situation: Computer teacher will show/demonstrate to the students the
Personal Protective Devices, what they are and how they are used.
The Student keeps on asking about the Personal Protective
Devices/Equipment and how they can be maintained in good condition
of PC.

Answer the following questions in your own answer/test notebook.

1. What personal protective devices do people who always works (do

troubleshooting) with computers commonly use? How often do they
use them?
2. Computers should be protected from static electricity to prevent
component malfunction. What anti-static devices can you utilize to
avoid such malfunction?

172
TYPES OF COMPUTER SYSTEM ERROR

There are several errors in a computer from the point you open it upto the
point you reach the stand by window (reaching standby windows means boot
process has no error). Below is a list of computer errors.

1. No Video Output - When you open your PC, nothing shows up in your
monitor and the LED indicator of your monitor is flashing in yellow color.

2. No Video Output - Same as number one but now the LED indicator of your
monitor is in steady orange color.

3. Doesn't Boot - When you open your PC it will show the processor’s brand
and/or the motherboard’s brand but doesn't continue. Usually this error will
result to system restart over and over again.

4. Never Ending Loading of Operating system - The computer opens up then

boots but when the operating system loads it, doesn't continue and it will take
a longtime if you're going to wait for it to load.

5. Lots of pop up windows showing on standby mode - This also happens

even if you try disconnecting your computer set from the internet. This is what
we called aftershock virus which will continue to run even if internet is
disconnected.

6. Lots of hardware installation windows appear - This happens even if you try
installing the hardware. When you restart your set it will happen again.

7. Safe mode doesn't work - When you try going to safe mode, all you will see
is a list of files in Command prompt style.

8. Keyboard and mouse system restart - This will happen only in standby
mode, when you move your mouse or type something, your system will
automatically restart and the worst part is it will delete a file at random.

173
9. Sound on/off error - Upon loading the operating system, you will hear a
loading sound and then the sound stops, when you try running an audio file,
no sound will be heard.

10. Application causes system to restart - Just like the mouse problem, when
you open a program that will take the whole screen like for example a game
and/or a program applications, when you close it, it will cause your system to
restart.

Aside from the common computer errors, computers also can have
different Operating System (OS) errors. OS errors can be classified into
various categories such as:

1. System errors – These are moderately dangerous types of errors

among those that can pop up on your PC. System errors are caused
by malfunctioning hardware components, corrupted operating system
modules, etc.
2. Runtime errors – Runtime errors are caused by corrupted or
malfunctioning system files or software executables. Most runtime
errors cause the application that caused it to shut down. However,
more serious runtime errors may cause the system to become
unstable or unresponsive, suggesting that you should restart your
computer.
3. Stop errors – Stop errors are caused by corrupted hardware,
especially malfunctioning RAM modules and bad sectors on hard
disks. Stop errors can be difficult to resolve at times.
4. Device Manager Errors – These are usually caused by corrupted
driver files or malfunctioning hardware components. In case of the
former cause, the problem is often solved by reinstalling or updating
the drivers. However, the latter cause can often be solved only by
replacing hardware components.
5. POST code errors – POST code errors are caused by malfunctioning
hardware components, and are characterized by short beep sounds
from the tiny internal speaker of your motherboard. POST code errors
occur when you press the power button to turn on your PC.
6. Application errors – These can happen at any point of time. As the
name suggests, these are caused by applications while those are
running. These are commonly caused by glitches in the program code
itself. These are normally resolved by updating the program to its latest
version.

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 7. Browser Status Codes – These are caused by problems faced by
browsers when trying to access a website. These can be caused by
misplaced web pages in the server of the website itself, or due to
connection problems. For instance, a 404 error would indicate that the
browser is trying to access a webpage that does not exist in the
specified location.

DIAGNOSING COMPUTER SYSTEMS

PC Diagnosing

Probably the most frustrating problem computer users

run into are startup problems, where your computer
won’t boot. Equally annoying are error messages you
constantly run into during your computer’s startup
process. In this module, you will be given a few tips on
how you can avoid some of the most common problems
that happen right after your computer is turned on. Here
you will learn the basic troubleshooting.

 Trial and error: When you find a faulty component in your computer,
check it with the other computers so that you can make sure whether
the fault is in the component or not.
 Check cables: In case of any device failure, check all the cables of
your computer such as data cables, power cable, internal circuitry
cable and make sure that all these are plugged in and working fine.
 Hardware settings: Check the hardware settings in the CMOS and in
the device manager of the system and make all the device drivers up
to date and all the cards are plugged in properly.
 Notice changes: When you notice a software or hardware error in
your computer, determine what was changed before the problem
occurred.
 Event viewer: In the event viewer, you will find the error or warning
messages associated with any faulty hardware or software.

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  Make notes: Troubleshooting is a useful skill and we can learn a lot
when we face any kind of troubleshooting in our computer. Make notes
including the error messages and their solutions, so that you have a
record on how a certain problem occurred and how did you solve it.

Common PC Problems and Solutions

You are working away at your computer when suddenly, an error
message – or worse, your computer comes to a screeching halt. Here are the
common computer problems and solutions that can help you.

Steps

1. Check the POST. POST stands for Power On Self-Test. This is generally
the first or second thing that appears on a computer after turning on the
power. This appears before the operating system begins to load. The POST
will display any problem found with the hardware that makes the computer
unable to boot. POST may also display problems with hardware that allow the
computer to boot, but not operate at its full capacity during operation.

2. Notice the load time of the OS (operating system). A longer than usual
load time may indicate errors in the hard drive.

3. Notice any graphics problems once the OS has loaded. Reduced

graphics may indicate driver failures or hardware failures with graphic cards.

4. Perform an auditory test. An auditory test is a simple, but still effective

way of judging how a computer is working. With the computer on and running,
play any decent length audio file (usually above 30 sec.) If the audio is
choppy or slow, it usually means that the processor is working at an elevated
level, or there is not enough RAM to run all programs loading. Changing the
startup sound is a great way to apply this test. Another issue associated with
choppy sounds is PIO (Programmed Input/Output) Mode. This affects how the
hard drive reads and writes data from a drive. Switching to Direct Memory
Access (DMA) allows for faster reads and writes, and can sometimes repair
choppy audio.

5. Check any newly installed hardware. Many operating systems,

especially Windows, can have conflicts with new drivers. The driver may be
badly written, or it may conflict with another process. Windows will usually
notify you about devices that can cause or have any problem. To check this

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use the Device Manager, this can be accessed by entering the Control Panel,
clicking the System icon, clicking the Hardware tab, and clicking on Device
Manager. Use this to check and arrange the properties of hardware.

6. Check any newly installed software. Software may require more

resources than the system can provide. Chances are that if a problem begins
after software starts, the software is causing it. If the problem appears directly
upon startup, it may be caused by software that starts automatically on boot.

7. Check RAM and CPU consumption. A common problem is a choppy or

sluggish system. If a system is choppy it is good practice to see if a program
is consuming more resources than the computer can provide. An easy way to
check this is to use the Task Manager, right click on the taskbar select Task
Manager, and click the Processes tab. The CPU column contains a number
that indicates the percentage of CPU the process is consuming. The Memory
Usage column indicates how much memory a process is consuming.

8. Listen to the computer, if the hard drive is scratching or making loud

noises, shut off the computer and have a professional diagnose the
hard drive. Listen to the CPU fan, this comes on a high speed when the CPU
is working hard, and can tell you when the computer is working beyond its
capacity.

9. Run a virus and malware scan. Performance problems can be caused by

malware on the computer. Running a virus scan can find any problem. Use a
commonly updated virus scanner (such as Norton Antivirus or Avast!
Antivirus)

10. Check for the problem in safe mode. To enter safe mode, press F8
repeatedly during POST (this works on most systems). If the problem persists
in safe mode, it is a fair bet that the operating system itself is to blame.

Common Trouble shooting for Computer Units

1. Double check the power connections.

2. Voltage regulator and power supply could cause power failure in the
computer unit.
3. Check the power cords and cable connectors in your computer unit.
4. Unseated card. Loose cards could cause malfunction.

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 5. Check the boot sequence configuration in the advance BIOS (Basic
Input/Output Unit) setup.

Diagnosing Network Connection

Things to look for if a PC is connected to the internet or network:

 First, check the cable connecting to the network card into the network
hub.
 Check the back of the computer to see if the network card light is on
 Check the network cable (use cable tester)
 Check the network hub (use multi-tester)

Identify the following:

1. Moderately dangerous types of errors that can pop up on your PC.

2. Caused by malfunctioning hardware components and characterized by
short beep sounds from the tiny internal speaker of your motherboard.
3. They happen at any point of time. As the name suggests, these are
caused by applications while those are running.
4. Usually caused by corrupted driver files or malfunctioning hardware
components.
5. Caused by corrupted or malfunctioning system files or software
executables.
6. Caused by corrupted hardware, especially malfunctioning RAM
modules and bad sectors on hard disks.
7. Caused by problems faced by browsers when trying to access a
website.

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Task: Develop a Sample Diagnostic Plan

List down all possible components to be checked based on the symptoms.

Symptoms: Dead Computer Monitor Good Defective Remedy

AC outlet
AVR
AVR fuse
Monitor Power Cable
Monitor Switch
Power Supply

Diagnosing a Computer Power Supply

Create a diagnostic plan for troubleshooting a power supply with the

use of the following tools, materials and equipment.

You will be assessed using the following criteria:

CRITERIA Passed Failed

1. Sequence of steps in diagnosing is followed.
2. Safety precaution is observed.
3. Appropriate tools are used in diagnosing.
4. Diagnostic plan for troubleshooting is created.
PERFORMANCE RATING

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LESSON2: DIAGNOSE AND CONFIGURE COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND
NETWORKS

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) refers to the legislation,

policies, procedures and activities that aim to protect the health, safety and
welfare of all people at the workplace.

Every worker has the right to a healthy and safe work and to a work
environment that enables them to live a socially and economically productive
life. Safety practices should be learned early and must be followed when
working with any electrical device including personal computers and
peripherals.

Personal safety while working with PC’s

The following are some safety precautions to take before working with any
computer devices:

 Before doing anything, listen to your teacher’s instruction to prevent

accidents or any unwanted events that may occur on your workplace.
 Do not work on a computer when you are wet because you might get
electrocuted.
 Do not remove internal devices of the computer when it is turned on.
 Avoid playing or running while inside the room.
 Always wear personal protective equipments (PPE) like coverall, shoes
with rubber sole, anti-static wrist strap, etc.
 Ask for assistance from your teacher when it comes dealing with
computer devices.
 Applying safety measures when handling tools and equipment are
necessary to avoid certain damages.

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 The student is further expected to maintain good health, to be neat in
personal appearance and to practice safe working procedures at all time with
appropriate equipment.

Basic Concepts of Electricity

This lesson will introduce you to the fundamental knowledge of

electricity. It will equip the student with the basic knowledge in electricity.

Basic Electrical Terms

 Electricity Is defined as the flow of electron or electric current. It

is an invisible form of energy that can be
transformed into other forms of energy like heat light
and mechanical.

 Electron Is the negatively charged component of an atom. It

has the ability to flow.

 Proton Is the positively charged component of an atom. It

has the ability to attract electron.

 Matter Is anything that occupy space and has mass. It can

be a solid, liquid or gas in state.

 Atom Basic component of matter. It composes of a

nucleus which is the central part, the protons and
electrons.

 Current Same as electricity or flow of electron. The amount

of current flowing in a circuit can be measured in
ampere (I).

 Voltage The amount of pulling force that makes the electron

flow. Also known as potential difference or EMF
(electromotive force). The amount of voltage can be

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 measured in volt (V).

 Resistance Defined as the opposition to the flow of current. The

amount of resistance can be measure in ohms (Ω).

Conductors and Insulators

 Conductors are materials that easily allow the flow of current, or it has
a low resistance to current flow.

Examples; aluminum, gold, silver, copper, iron

 Insulators are materials that do not easily allow the flow of current, or
it has a high resistance to current flow.

Examples; rubber, plastic, paper

Types of Current

1. Direct Current

In direct current (DC), the flow of electric charge is only in one

direction, the type of electricity produced by batteries, static, and lightning.A
voltage is created and maybe stored until it is consumed when the current
flows directly, in one direction. In the circuit, the current flows at a specific,
constant voltage (this is oversimplified somewhat but good enough for our
needs.) When you use a flashlight, pocket radio, portable CD player or
virtually any other type of portable or battery-powered device, you are using
direct current.

Most DC circuits are relatively low in voltage; for example, your car's
battery is approximately 12V, and that's about as high a DC voltage as most
people ever use.

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 Source: www.electrostudy.com
Figure 1.Direct Current

Figure 1 shows an ideal 12 V DC current. The voltage is considered

positive because its potential is measured relative to ground or the zero-
potential default state of the earth.

Direct currents flow in one direction only and are constant in time. Their
appearance is that of a straight line which does not vary. They are produced
from power sources such as batteries, power supplies and DC generators.
Photovoltaic devices such as solar cells also generate DC power.

2. AC Alternating Current

In alternating current (AC, also ac) the movement of electric charge

periodically reverses direction. This type of electricity is produced or
generated by AC generators commonly from a hydro electric plant. It is the
commercial power that we use in homes and offices. Delivered through a
power transmission lines.AC current can be reduced through the use of
power transformer to suite for its application.It can also be converted to DC
for a specific purpose. In the Philippines AC is rated as 220V AC at 60 Hz.

Alternating currents change direction, flowing first one way and then
the other. They are sinusoidal waves, so that they change in time. They are
produced from sources such as power supplies and AC generators. In North
America, AC is 120 volts and 60 hertz or cycles per second. This means it
changes direction 60 times per second. In Europe, it is generally 50 hertz with
220 to 240 volts.

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 Source: www.electrostudy.com
Figure2. Alternating Current
Why does standard electricity come only in the form of alternating
current?

There are a number of reasons, but one of the most important is that a
characteristic of AC is that it is relatively easy to change voltages from one
level to another using a transformer, while transformers do not work for DC.
This capability allows the companies that generate and distribute electricity to
do it in a more efficient manner, by transmitting it at high voltage for long
lengths, which reduces energy loss due to the resistance in the transmission
wires. Another reason is that it may be easier to mechanically generate
alternating current electricity than direct current.

PC’s use only direct current, which means that the alternating current
provided by your utility must be converted to direct current before use.
This is the primary function of your power supply.

AC POWER PC’s PSU DC POWER

MOTHERBOARD

DRIVES

COOLING FANS

Figure 3.Simplified block diagram of a PC power supply

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Electric Circuit

Electric circuit - is the pathways for electricity to flow.

Components of Circuit

 Load - commonly represented by a bulb or any electrical component

that consumes electricity.

 Supply - Commonly represented by a cell or a battery

 Switch - an electrical device that opens or closed a circuit.

Figure4. A simple circuit

Types of Circuit

1. Open Circuit - a type of circuit that has an open path for current to flow. It
means that current cannot flow in open circuit.

- +

Supply
Load

Switch

Figure5. An open circuit

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 The switch is said to be “OPEN” the current can’t flow into the circuit
and the bulb is “OFF”

2. Closed Circuit - a type of circuit that has a closed path for current to flow.
It means that current can flow in a closed circuit.

Load
- +

Supply

Switch

Figure6. A closed circuit

The switch is said to be “CLOSED” the current can’t flow into the circuit
and the bulb is “ON”

I. Identification:
Direction: Identify the following statement.

_________1. Defined as the flow of electron or electric current. It is an invisible

form of energy that can be transformed into other form of energy
like heat light and mechanical.

_________2. The negatively charge component of an atom. It has the ability to

flow.

_________3. Defined as the opposition to the flow of current. The amount of

resistance can be measured in ohms (Ω).

_________4. The positively charged component of an atom. It has the ability to

attract electron.

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_________5. Anything that occupy space and has mass. It can be a solid, liquid
or gas in state.

_________6. Basic component of matter. It is composed of a nucleus which is

the central part, the protons and electrons.

_________7. Same as electricity or flow of electron. The amount of current

flowing in a circuit can be measured in ampere (I).

_________8. The amount of pulling force that makes the electron flow. Also
known as potential difference or EMF (electromotive force). The
amount of voltage can be measured in volt (V).

_________9. Materials that easily allow the flow of current, or it has a low
resistance to current flow.

_________10. Materials that do not easily allow the flow of current, or it has a high
resistance to current flow.
_________11. A computer power supply converts AC to ___________________.

_________12. Define as the pathways for electricity to flow.

_________13. A component of a circuit that is commonly represented by a bulb or

any electrical component that consumes electricity.

_________14. A component of a circuit that is commonly represented by a cell or

a battery.

_________15. An electrical device that opens or closed a circuit.

_________16. A type of circuit that has a closed path for current to flow. It means
that current can flow in this circuit.

_________17. A type of circuit that has an open path for current to flow. It means
that current cannot flow in this circuit.

_________18. A circuit connection has only one path of current flow. In this circuit
connection the current remain constant.

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_________19. A circuit connection that has 2 or more path of current. In this circuit
the voltage remains constant.

_________20. An invisible form of energy.

Techniques for diagnosing computer systems

Computer Diagnosis

Sometimes when the problem with a system is not totally apparent and
intermittent, using a basic common diagnostic procedure may help determine
what is wrong. This procedure has a number of steps that, if followed each
time, can be of help.

Rules in Diagnosing Computer System

1. Know the facts

 Educate one self on all aspects and operation of computer parts.
 Continuous learning on computer technology.
2. Use your common sense
3. Focus on Field Replaceable Units
 Identify the different types of FRU that can be used for replacement or
subassembly.
4. Proper assembly and disassembly
5. Factors Causing Computer Failures and Defects
 Peopleware
Untrained personnel could have damaged programs in PC.
 Firmware
Programs or software burnt in chips may be corrupted.
 Software
Corrupted operating systems would cause the system to fail.
 Hardware
Defective hardware components would lead to computer malfunction.
Hardware conflicts and viruses can hinder your computers
performance.

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ESD (Electro Static Discharge)

Electro static discharge can easily damage sensitive components in

yourcomputer.

Electricity

Incoming supply from AC outlet must be regulated; power surges can

damage computer units.

Problem Isolation

Problem isolation is a detective work in which you need to determine

what is out of the ordinary by making detailed observation of what is not
working normally and record any information as you proceed. The information
you will be able to gather will help diagnose your computer. You need to
observe wisely. Look for any abnormalities in the unit, any change in smell or
foreign smell, listen to all the sounds, and error codes.

Component Isolation

This section will aid in determining components in your system which

are failing. First, most systems have 3 major components; monitor, system
unit, and printers. Some have multiple external devices. To troubleshoot, you
need to isolate major components which are failing to operate.

Diagnostics Procedure for ATX Power Supply Failure

1. Determine whether or not the power comes on.
2. Check the switch operation with a Digital Volt Meter on the
continuity or resistance setting.
3. Check the pins if the corresponding voltage are properly
regulated to the motherboard.
4. Replace the power supply unit if defective.

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 Flowchart for ATX Power Supply Repair

Warning! You must unplug your ATX power supply from the wall before
working inside the case.

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Things to Consider:

There are many devices, parts, cords, and connections on a computer,

which means that there are many possible problems that could arise. In
addition, your computer uses a variety of software, which can also cause
problems. However, no matter what the problem is, you can use the
following tips to help you find a solution:

 Always check the cables: Many computer problems are related to an

issue in the cables and connections. The easiest first step you can take to
troubleshoot most problems is to check all related cables and connections.
 Isolate the problem: If possible, try to isolate the problem. For example, if
you can't get the cursor to move on the screen, try to determine if the
issue is with the mouse. If you have an extra mouse, you can alternate
devices to see if the one plugged in is the issue, or use the arrow keys on
the keyboard to help determine if the mouse is the source of the problem.
When trying to isolate the problem, only make one change at a time.

Figure 7. An error message

 Take notes about error messages: If your computer gives you error
messages, be sure to write down as much information as possible. If the
basic troubleshooting steps don't work, you may need the information you
have taken.
 Remember the steps you've taken, or write them down: Once you start
troubleshooting, you will want to remember what you have done, so you
don't repeat yourself. If you can't remember it, then write it down. If you
end up asking someone for help, it will be much easier if they know
exactly which steps you've taken.

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Simple Solutions to Common Problems

Most of the time, problems can be fixed by using simple

troubleshooting techniques, such as closing and re-opening the program.
It's important to try these simple solutions before resorting to more extreme
measures. If the problem still isn't fixed, you can then try other
troubleshooting techniques, such as reinstalling the software.

Program Runs Slowly or Isn't Working Right

 If a program is running slowly or otherwise isn't working right, the first thing
you should try is closing the program and re-opening it.
 You can also shut down your computer, wait a few seconds, and boot it
up again. Some minor problems will work themselves out when you do
this.
 Check with the company for any known problems or updates to the
software.

Figure 8.Checking for updates

Program is Completely Unresponsive

 If a program has become completely unresponsive, you can press (and

hold) Control+Alt+Delete on your keyboard to open the Task Manager.
You can then select the program that isn't working and click End Task. If
you are using a Mac, you can press Option+Command+Esc to open a
similar dialog box.

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 Figure 9.The Task Manager

Problems Starting or Shutting Down the Computer

Figure 10.Resetting a surge protector

 If your computer does not start, begin by checking the power cord to
confirm that it is plugged securely into the back of the computer case and
the power outlet.
 If it is plugged into an outlet, make sure it is a working outlet. Often, this
will require you to plug a lamp or other electrical device into the outlet to
make sure it is receiving power.
 If the computer is plugged into a surge protector, verify that it is turned
on. You may have to reset the surge protector by turning it off and then
back on. You can also plug a lamp or other device into the surge protector
to verify that it is on.

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 If you are using a laptop, the battery may not be charged. Plug the AC
adapter into the wall and then try to turn on the laptop. If it still doesn't
start up, you may need to wait a few minutes and then try again.

"Non-System Disk” or “Disk Error" Message

If you get this message when you boot up your computer, it usually
means there is a CD, DVD, USB flash drive, or floppy disk in your
computer, which is interfering with your computer's booting process.
Remove the disk from the drive and restart the computer.

Figure 11.The Non-System Disk or Disk Error Message

Windows Shutting Down Message Will Not Disappear

Sometimes Windows will freeze during the shutdown process. If

this happens, the Windows is Shutting Down message screen will stay
active on your screen. To finish shutting down the computer, press and
hold the power button for about 10 seconds, or until the computer turns
off.

Figure12.The Windows shutdown screen

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Computer Begins Randomly Rebooting or Crashing

 Check for overheating. Make sure the vents in the case are not blocked.
Confirm that there is good air flow around the computer.
 Update your antivirus software and scan for viruses.

Figure13.Virus Scanning

Problems with the Monitor and Speakers

No Picture on the Monitor

 Confirm the computer is turned on.

 Check the brightness control, located on your monitor or your keyboard,
and make sure it is not set too low.
 Check the connections for the monitor and surge protector, and make
sure the surge protector is turned on.

Figure 14.Cable plugged into monitor

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Monitor Goes Blank Periodically

 You may have the screensaver

enabled. If the screen saver is
enabled, just move your mouse
back and forth and your original
screen will appear. You can
change the screensaver settings
by going to your Control Panel
(or your System Preferences if
you're using a Mac).

Figure 15.Opening the Control Panel

No Sound

Figure 16.Adjusting the sound volume on a Mac

 Check the volume control on your computer. In Windows, the sound icon
will usually be on the taskbar, and you can also access the sound options
in the Control Panel. On Macs, the sound options are found at the top of
the screen or in System Preferences.
 Most media programs (such as iTunes or Windows Media Player) have
a volume control, which will need to be turned up.
 Make sure the speakers are turned on, if using external speakers.

196
 Make sure external speakers are connected to the correct audio port or a
USB port. If your computer has color-coded ports, the audio output will
usually be green.
 Connect headphones to the correct audio port and determine if sound is
audible from the headphones.

Searching the web for a solution

If you still haven't found a solution to your problem, you may need to
ask someone else for help. Try searching the web for the problem that
you're having, as other people may have had similar problems. Also, if you
have a friend or family member who knows a lot about computers, they may
be able to help you.

Keep in mind that most computer problems have simple solutions,

although it may take some time to find them. For very difficult problems, a
more drastic solution may be required, such as reformatting your hard
drive, reinstalling programs, or reinstalling your operating system. If you're not
a computer expert, it's possible that you could make the situation worse, so
it's best to consult a professional if you think a drastic solution is needed.

Task. Examining the Motherboard in Detail

1. Look at the back of your computer. Without opening the case, list the ports
that you believe come directly from the motherboard.
2. Remove the cover of the case. List the different expansion cards in the
expansion slots. Was your guess correct about which ports come from the
motherboard?
3. To expose the motherboard so you can identify its parts, remove all the
expansion cards.
4. Draw a diagram of the motherboard and label these parts: Processor
(Include the prominent label on the processor housing.)
a) RAM (each DIMM slot)
b) CMOS battery
c) Expansion slots (Identify the slots as PCI, PCIe x1, PCIe x4, PCIe
x16, and AGP.) Each port coming directly from the motherboard

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 Power supply connections, SATA or IDE drive connectors and
floppy drive connector
5. Draw a rectangle on the diagram to represent each bank of jumpers on
the board.
6. What is the brand and model of the motherboard?
7. Locate the manufacturer’s Web site. If you can find the motherboard
manual on the site, download it.
8. You can complete the following activity only if you have the documentation
for the motherboard:.

 What do you do if a program on a PC is completely unresponsive? What

about a program on a Mac?
 What should you do if you've tried everything and the problem still isn't
fixed?

Diagnosing Power Supply Failure

Directions: Divide the class into five (5) groups. Choose a leader for each
group. The group will prepares a chart and perform the tasks required by the
Diagnostics Procedure of ATX Power Supply Failure. After the activity
they will be graded through the given Performance Score Card below:

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 PERFORMANCE SCORE CARD

Performance Criteria Passed Failed

1. The students clearly identified the problem and applied
the possible solution correctly.
2. The students utilized actual tools/device in performing
the actual usage of each tools and OHS was observed.
3. The students applied safety precautions during the
Activity.
4. The activity gave students more critical thinking on the
personal protective equipment.
5. The students cooperatively performed the activity.

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 Tools for Testing Computer System

Tools and equipment play vital roles in troubleshooting. They help the
user determine the errors found in their computer hardware and network.

Tools used to test hardware problems:

1. Screw drivers - are used for installing and removing screws in the computer
unit.

Figure 17.Screw Drivers

2. Pliers and tweezers - are used for picking small parts in the computer unit.

Figure18. Pliers and Tweezers

3. Soldering iron- is primarily used for connecting terminals in the power supply
and circuit board with the use of a soldering lead.

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 Figure19. Soldering iron

4. Anti-static wrist strap, mat and spray- are used for eliminating electrostatic
discharge in the work area.

Figure20. Anti- static wrist strap, mat and spray

5. Lens cleaner – a device used for cleaning optical media, such as DVD-
ROMS and CD-writers.

Figure21. Lens Cleaner

6. Thermal paste-is a paste used for heat dissipation of the processor.

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 Figure22. Thermal Paste

Network Troubleshooting Tools

1. LAN Tester – is a device used for testing the network connection.

Source: www.nudata.com
Figure23. LAN Tester
2. Crimping tool- is a device used to crimp the RJ45 connector to the UTP
cable.

Source: www.ted-kyte.com
Figure24. Crimping Tool

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Direction: Answer the following question. Write your answers on your
notebook.

Enumerate the six tools used for 2. Enumerate the two

troubleshooting. network troubleshooting
. tools.
1.
2. a.
3.
4. b.
5.
6.

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Troubleshooting computer system network

Causes of Network Trouble

If a computer is unable to connect to a network or see other computers

on a network, it may be necessary to troubleshoot the network. A network
may not work because of any of the reasons below.

1. Network card not properly connected.

2. Bad network card drivers or software settings.
3. Firewall preventing computers from seeing each other.
4. Connection related issues.
5. Bad network hardware.

Solution

Because of the large variety of network configurations, operating

systems and setup, not all of the below information may apply to your network
or operating system. If your computer is connected to a company or large
network, or you are not the administrator of the network, it is recommended
that if you are unable to resolve your issues after following the below
recommendations, you should contact the network administrator or company
representative.

Verify connections / LEDs

Verify that the network cable is properly connected to the back of the
computer. In addition, when checking the connection of the network cable,
ensure that the LEDs on the network are properly illuminated. For example, a
network card with a solid green LED or light usually indicates that the card is
either connected or receiving a signal.

If, however, the card does not have any lights or has orange or red
lights, it is possible that the card is bad, not connected properly, or the card is
not receiving a signal from the network.

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 If you are on a small or local network and have the capability of
checking a hub or switch, verify that the cables are properly connected and
that the hub or switch has power.

Adapter resources

Ensure that if this is a new network card being installed into the
computer that the card's resources are properly set and not conflicting with
any hardware in the computer.

Adapter functionality

Verify that the network card is capable of detecting or seeing itself by

using the ping command. Windows / MS-DOS users ping the computer from a
MS-DOS prompt. Unix / Linux variant users ping the computer from the shell.
To ping the card or the local host, type either ping 127.0.0.1 or ping
local host
This should show a listing of replies from the network card. If you
receive an error or if the transmission failed, it is likely that either the network
card is not physically installed into the computer correctly, or that the card is
bad.

Protocol

Verify that the correct protocols are installed on the computer. Most
networks today will utilize TCP/IP, but may also utilize or
require IPX/SPX and NetBEUI.
When the TCP/IP protocol is installed, unless a DNS server or other
computer assigns the IPX address, the user must specify an IP address as
well as a Subnet Mask. To do this, follow the instructions below.
1. Click Start / Settings / Control Panel
2. Double-click the Network icon
3. Within the configuration tab double-click the TCP/IP protocol icon. Note: Do
not click on the PPP or Dial-Up adapter, click on the network card adapter.
4. In the TCP/IP properties click the IP address tab
5. Select the option to specify an IP address
6. Enter the IP address and Subnet Mask address, an example of such an
address could be:
IP Address: 102.55.92.1
Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.192

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7. When specifying these values, the computers on the network must all
have the same Subnet Mask and have a different IP Address. For
example, when using the above values on one computer you would want
to use an IP address of 102.55.92.2 on another computer and then specify
the same Subnet Mask.

Firewall

If your computer network utilizes a firewall, ensure that all ports required
are open. If possible, close the firewall software program or disconnect the
computer from the firewall to ensure it is not causing the problem.

Additional time

In some cases it may take a computer some additional time to detect

or see the network. If after booting the computer you are unable to see the
network, give the computer 2-3 minutes to detect the network. Windows users
may also want to try pressing the F5 (refresh) key when in Network
Neighborhood to refresh the network connections and possibly detect the
network

Additional troubleshooting

If after following or verifying the above recommendations you are still

unable to connect or see the network, attempt one or more of the below
recommendations.
If you have installed or are using TCP/IP as your protocol you can ping
another computer's IP address to verify if the computer is able to send and
receive data. To do this, Windows or MS-DOS users must be at a prompt and
Linux / Unix variant users must open or be at a shell.
Once at the prompt assuming, that the address of the computer you
wish to ping is 102.55.92.2, you would type:
ping 102.55.92.2
If you receive a response back from this address (and it is a different
computer), this demonstrates that the computer is communicating over the
network. If you are still unable to connect or see the network, it is possible
that other issues may be present.
Another method of determining network issues is to use the tracert
command if you are a MS-DOS or Windows user or the trace route command

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if you are a Linux / Unix variant user. To use this command you must be at
the command prompt or shell. Ortrace route 102.55.92.2
This should begin listing the hops between the computer and network
devices. When the connection fails, determine what device is causing the
issue by reviewingthe trace route listing.

Networking with DHCP

Task: Setting up a local area network with a Dynamic Host Control

Protocol (DHCP) server is easy. The DHCP server provides all the
information your computer needs to get up and running on the network. Once
connected, you will check network connectivity with the router and at least
one other peer on the network.
Procedures:
Getting connected

1. Before connecting your PC to the network, be sure the Windows XP

operating system is running on your computer. You will use Windows XP sp2
throughout this activity.

2. Next, open a terminal window on your computer by clicking on

Applications->Accessories->Terminal.

3. In the terminal window, type ipconfig and press Enter.

a. How many network devices are listed in the output? Record their names in
your worksheet.

b. Is there an IPv4 address listed for any of the network devices? If so, record
your

IP address (es) in your worksheet.

4. Connect your computer to a network switch using a patch cable. Did you
get a light on the switch? Record the port number you connected to in your
worksheet.

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5. Draw a diagram of the entire local area network in the space below,
including the

router, any switches or hubs, and all connected PCs.

6. Run ifconfig again. Do you see an IP address? If so, record it in your

worksheet.

7. In the terminal window, type dhclient eth1 and press Enter. Describe what
happens.

Checking your connection:

1. Check connectivity with the router with the ping command. Type ping -c4
10.0.1.1 and press Enter. Record the times listed in the last column of the
output. What was the average round trip time (rtt) from your computer to the
router and back?

2. Ask another group for their IP address. Check connectivity with that group's
computer with ping. Run ping as shown above, substituting the new IP
address for the one listed in the previous item. Record the times listed in the
last column below. What was the average round trip time (rtt)?

3. When you have completed the activity, shut down your computer and
return to your seat.

Title: Networking with Static IPs

Purpose: While setting up a network with a Dynamic Host Control

Protocol (DHCP) server is very convenient, it is sometimes preferable to use
static IP addresses. In this activity, you will join the network using an IP
address and netmask provided by your instructor. Once connected, you will
check network connectivity with at least one other peer on the network.

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Procedures:

Getting connected

1. Before connecting your PC to the network, be sure the windows

Operating system is running on your computer.
2. When the boot process is completed, connect your computer to the
network switch using a patch cable. Did you get a light? What port
number did you connect to on the switch?
3. Draw a diagram of the entire network in the space below.
4. To configure your network settings, click System->Administration-
>Network.
5. In the Network settings window, make sure the Connections tab is
selected.
6. Click on Wired connection, and then click the Properties button.
7. In the Interface properties window, change the Configuration setting
to Static IP address.
8. Enter the IP address provided by your instructor in the IP address
field.
9. Enter 10.0.1.0 in the Gateway address field.
10. Finally, enter 255.255.255.0 in the Subnet mask field. Click OK to
close the Interface properties window.
11. Click OK to close the Network settings window.

Checking your connection

1. Open a terminal window on your computer, if one is not already

open, by clicking Applications->Accessories->Terminal.

2. Type ipconfig and press Enter. Are your network setting correct? If
not, repeat the steps 4–11 in the previous section.

3. Ask another group for their IP address. Check connectivity with that
group's computer with ping. For example, ping -c4 10.0.1.200.
Record the times listed in the last column below. What was the
average round trip time?

4. Ask a second group for their IP address. Check connectivity to that

group's computer with ping. Record the times listed in the last
column below. What was the average round trip time?

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 Evaluation:
CRITERIA
Passed Failed

1. Sequence of steps in diagnosing is followed.

2. Safety precaution are observed.

3. Appropriate tools are used in diagnosing.

4. Diagnostic plan for troubleshooting is created.

Remarks

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Computer System and Network Configurations

Computer Networks

Networks are collections of computers, software, and hardware that

are all connected to help their users work together. A network connects
computers by means of cabling systems, specialized software, and devices
that manage data traffic. A network enables users to share files and
resources, such as printers, as well as send messages electronically (e-mail)
to each other.

The most common networks are Local Area Networks or LANs for
short. A LAN connects computers within a single geographical location, such
as one office building, office suite, or home. By contrast, Wide Area Networks
(WANs) span different cities or even countries, using phone lines or satellite
links.

Network System Configuration

All networks go through roughly the same steps in terms of design, rollout,
configuration, and management.

Designing Your Network

Plan on the design phase to take anywhere from one to three working
days, depending on how much help you have ad how big your network is.

Here are the key tasks:

 Settle on a peer-to-peer network or a client/server network.

 Pick you network system software.
 Pick a network language.
 Figure out what hardware you need.
 Decide on what degree of information security you need.

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 Choose software and hardware solutions to handle day-to-day
management chores.

Rolling Out Your Network

Rolling out your network requires the following steps:

 Run and test network cables.

 Install the server or servers if you’re setting up a client/server network. (If
you are setting up a peer-to-peer network, you typically don’t have to
worry about any dedicated servers.)
 Set up the workstation hardware.
 Plug in and cable the Network Interface Cards (NICs – these connect the
network to the LAN).
 Install the hub or hubs (if you are using twisted-pair cable).
 Install printers.
 Load up the server software (the NOS, or Network Operating System) if
your network is a client/server type.
 Install the workstation software.
 Install modem hardware for remote dial-up (if you want the users to be
able to dial into the network).
 Install the programs you want to run (application software).

Configuring Your Network

Network configuration means customizing the network for your own use.

 Creating network accounts for your users (names, passwords, and

groups).
 Creating areas on shared disk drives for users to share data files.
 Creating areas on shared disk drives for users to share programs (unless
everyone runs programs from their own computer).
 Setting up print queues (the software that lets users share networked
printers).
 Installing network support on user workstations, so they can "talk" to your
network.

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Managing Your Network

The work you do right after your LAN is up and running and configured can
save you huge amounts of time in the coming months.

 Mapping your network for easier management and troubleshooting.

 Setting up appropriate security measures to protect against accidental and
intentional harm.
 Tuning up your LAN so that you get the best possible speed from it.
 Creating company standards for adding hardware and software, so you
don’t have nagging compatibility problems later.
 Putting backup systems in place so that you have copies of data and
programs if your hardware fails.
 Installing some monitoring and diagnostic software so that you can check
on your network’s health and get an early warning of impleading problems.
 Figuring out how you plan to handle troubleshooting – educating your LAN
administrator, setting up a support contract with a software vendor, and so
on.

Smooth Setup

One key advantage of a peer-to-peer network is that it’s easy to setup.

With the simplest sort of peer-to-peer network, you just use the built-in
networking that comes with your operating system (Windows 98, Windows
XP, Windows 7, Windows 8 and so on) and you have very little software to
set up – even less if you have computers that have the operating system
preinstalled, as most computers do these days.

For Windows XP and Windows 7, the basic steps to setting up a peer-

to-peer network are as follows:

(Review for Cabling) UTP Cable

A UTP cable (category 5) is one of the most popular LAN cables. This
cable consists of 4 twisted pairs of metal wires (that means there are 8 wires
in the cable). Adding RJ45 connectors at both ends of the UTP cable it
becomes a LAN cable they usually use.

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Preparation

You need a UTP Cable, Crimping Tool, RJ45, and Cutter

Figure 25. Materials for Cabling

Making Cable
Follow the steps below.

1. Remove the outmost vinyl shield for 12mm at one end of the cable (we
call this side A-side).
2. Arrange the metal wires in parallel (refer the each section's wire
arrangement table). Don't remove the shield of each metal line.
3. Insert the metal wires into RJ45 connector on keeping the metal wire
arrangement.
4. Set the RJ45 connector (with the cable) on the pliers, and squeeze it
tightly.
5. Make the other side of the cable (we call this side B-side) in the same
way.
6. After you made it, you don't need to take care of the direction of the cable.
(Any cable in this page is directionless --- that means you can set either
end of the cable to either device.)

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How to see the wire arrangement

Take the UTP cable with your left hand and a RJ45 connector with
your right hand. Hold the RJ45 connector in the way you can see the contact
metal face of the RJ45 connector.

The tables below are for the case where the UTP cable consists of
green/green-white, orange/orange-white, blue/blue-white, brown/brown-white
twisted pairs.

10 Base T / 100 Base T Straight

10BaseT and 100BaseT are most common mode of LAN. You can use
UTP category-5 cable for both modes. (You can use UTP category-3 cable for
10BaseT, in which there are only 3 wires inside the cable.)

A straight cable is used to connect a computer to a hub. You can use it

to connect 2 hubs in the case one of the hubs has an uplink port (and you use
normal port on the other hub).

Pin ID side A side B

1 orange-white orange-white
2 orange orange
3 green-white green-white
4 blue blue
5 blue-white blue-white
6 green green
7 brown-white brown-white
8 brown brown

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10 Base T / 100 Base T Cross
A cross cable for 10BaseT and 100BaseT is used to connect 2
computers directly (with ONLY the UTP cable). It is also used when you
connect 2 hubs with a normal port on both hubs. (In other words, the cross
cable is used relatively in a rare case.)

Pin side A side B

ID
1 orange- green-
2 white
orange white
green
3 green- orange-
4 white
blue white
blue
5 blue-white blue-white
6 green orange
7 brown- brown-
8 white
brown white
brown

To create a peer network, you must have the following components:

• A network interface or Local Area Network (LAN) adapter for each

computer. The same manufacturer and model of network card is preferred.

• Cabling that is supported by the network cards.

• Windows XP or 7 drivers for the network cards.

• A common network protocol.

• A unique computer name for each computer.

Task1. Creating Peer to Peer Network

To create a peer network, follow these steps for each computer connected to
the network:

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1. Shut down the computer and install the network card and appropriate
cabling for each computer.

NOTE: For information about how to configure your network adapters

and physically connect your computers, consult the documentation
included with your network adapters or contact the manufacturer(s) of
your network adapters.

2. Start Windows and install the network drivers. Windows may detect your
network card and install the drivers when you start the computer. If the
network card drivers are not included with Windows, follow the manufacturer's
instructions about how to install the network drivers.

3. Choose a client and a common protocol for each computer. To do this,

follow these steps:

a. Click Start, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then double-click
Network.

b. Click Add, click Client, and then click Add.

c. In the Manufacturers box, click the appropriate manufacturer, click the

appropriate client in the Network Clients box, and then click OK.

d. Click Add, click Protocol, and then click Add.

e. In the Manufacturers box, click the appropriate manufacturer, click the

appropriate protocol in the Network Protocol box, and then click OK.

4. Configure a peer server. Each computer that is configured for File and
Printer Sharing can act as a server. To configure a computer for File and
Printer Sharing, use the following steps:

a. Click Start, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then double-click
Network.

b. Click File and Print Sharing, click one or both options to share files and
printers, click OK, and then click OK again.

c. Click Yes when you are prompted to restart your computer.

5. Give each computer a unique computer name. To do this, use the following
steps:

217
a. Click Start, point to Settings, click Control Panel, and then double-click
Network.

b. On the Identification tab, type a unique name in the Computer name box.

c. Click OK, and then click Yes when you are prompted to restart your
computer.

NOTE: The computer name must be unique for each computer on the
network and should be no more than 15 characters in length. In small
networks, the workgroup name should be the same for each computer
so that all computers are visible in the same workgroup when
browsing. You should not use spaces or the following characters in
: computer and workgroup names

Task 2. Using the Internet for Research

In this activity, you will learn how useful the Internet can be for a PC support
technician.

1. Using your own or computer laboratory, pretend that the motherboard

manual is not available and you need to replace a faulty processor. Identify
the manufacturer and model of the motherboard by looking for the
manufacturer name and model number stamped on theboard. Research the
Web site for that manufacturer. Print the list of processors the boardcan
support.

2. Research the Web site for your motherboard and print the instructions for
flashing BIOS.

3. Research the Abit Web site (www.abit.com.tw) and print a photograph of a

motherboardthat has a riser slot. Also print the photograph of the riser card
that fits this slot. What isthe function of the riser card?

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Task 1. Setting Windows Network Connection

Equipment, Tools and Materials Required:

- UTP cables
- 4 Computer units
- 1 hub

Given the following materials, set-up a network connection on four computers.

CRITERIA 1 2 3 4 5
 Safety Precautions are observed.
 All the UTP are properly connected to the computer
and hub.
 Computers are properly connected and seen in the
network.
 Proper boot-up and shutdown of the computer is
observed.

Total:

More Security for Remote Desktop

Task2. Analyze the situations below and answer the questions that
follow.

When Enzo travels on company business, he finds it’s a great help to be able
to access his office computer from anywhere on the road using Remote
Desktop. However, he wants to make sure his office computer as well as the
entire corporate network is as safe as possible.One way you can help Enzo to
add more security is to change the port that Remote Desktop uses.
Knowledgeable hackers know that Remote Desktop uses port 3389, but if you
change this port to a secret port, hackers are less likely to find the open port.
Search the MicrosoftKnowledge Base articles (support.microsoft.com) for a
way to change the port that RemoteDesktop uses. Practice implementing this
change by doing the following:

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1. Set up Remote Desktop on a computer to be the host computer. Use
another computer (the client computer) to create a Remote Desktop
session to the host computer. Verify the session works by transferring files
in both directions.
2. Next, change the port that Remote Desktop uses on the host computer to
a secret port. Print a screen shot showing how you made the change. Use
the client computer to create a Remote Desktop session to the host
computer using the secret port. Print a screen shot showing how you
made the connection using the secret port. Verify the session works by
transferring files in both directions.
3. What secret port did you use?

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Lesson 3.INSPECT AND TEST THE CONFIGURED COMPUTER
SYSTEMS AND NETWORKS

General Safety Tips and Reminders

 Observe good housekeeping in the area of the machines during and after
maintenance.
 Place removed covers and other parts in a safe place, away from all
personnel, while you are servicing the machine.

Dress for the Job

 Keep your tool case away from walk areas so that other people will not trip
over it.
 Do not wear loose clothing that can be trapped in the moving parts of a
machine. Ensure that your sleeves are fastened or rolled up above your
elbows. If your hair is long, use hair net or hair cap.
 Insert the ends of your necktie or scarf inside clothing or fasten it with a
nonconductive clip, approximately three (3) inches from the end.
 Do not wear jewelry, chains, metal-frame eyeglasses, or metal fasteners.

Remember: Metal objects are good conductors

 After service, reinstall all safety shields, guards, labels, and ground wires.
Replace any safety device that is worn out or defective.
 Finally, reinstall all covers correctly before returning the unit to the
customers.

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Electrical safety
Electric current from power, telephone, and communication cables can
be hazardous. To avoid personal injury or equipment damage, disconnect the
attached power cords, telecommunications systems, networks and modems
before you open the server/workstation covers, unless instructed otherwise in
the installation and configuration procedure.

Precautions

 Disconnect all power before:

 Performing a mechanical inspection
 Working near power supplies
 Removing or installing main units
 Before starting work on the machine, unplug the power cord.
 Never assume that power has been disconnected from a circuit.
First, check that it has been powered-off.
 Always look carefully for possible hazards in your work
 Moist floors
 Non-grounded power extension cables
 Power surges.
 If an electrical accident occurs:
 Switch off power
 Send another person to get medical aid
Safety Inspection Guide

These steps will help you identify potentially unsafe conditions on electrical
products:
 Check exterior covers for damage (loose, broken, or sharp edges)
 Power-off computer. Disconnect the power cord.
 The power cord should be the appropriate type.
 Insulation on the power cord must not be frayed or worn out.
 Remove the cover.
 Check for any obvious alteration. Use good judgment as to the
safety of any alterations.
 Check for worn out, frayed or pinched cables.
 Check that the power-supply cover fasteners (screws or rivets)
have not been removed or tampered with.
Accident Reporting Policy and Procedure
There must be a process put in place to report accidents, incidents or near
misses for immediate action and to help track causes. The organization needs to
222
identify what needs to be reported, to whom it is to be reported, and how to report
it, then put this process into a written procedure.

For example:
Any accident, incident, or "near miss," no matter how slight the injury or
damage, must be reported to the department supervisor immediately for
appropriate action.
The supervisor is responsible for taking appropriate follow-up action,
including getting medical attention for the injured, completing an investigation
report and recommending or implementing appropriate corrective actions.
The primary purpose of the accident investigation is to identify the cause(s)
of the accident, incident or "near miss" and take action to prevent a similar
occurrence in the future. In some instances, an employee's or volunteer's failure to
follow recognized safety procedures requires disciplinary action to protect co-
workers.
Remember: One person's actions can jeopardize the safety of others in the
workplace.

Accident Reporting Policy

Approved by
Chairman:
Date:

1. Purpose [complies with legislation, ensure the necessary action to

2. Prevent any recurrence and to enable the organization to maintain
proper records.
3. Scope [accident, incident, near-miss; employee, volunteer, anyone
on site or involved in organization-sponsored activities.
4. Definitions of terms.
5. Accident Reporting [timeline, to whom, how (phone, e-mail, fax) \
OSHA, NIOSH?
6. Absence resulting from an accident [who to report to, Return-to
work.
7. Accident Investigation [who investigates what to do with resulting
recommendations.
8. Forms Names, where to find them.
9. Reportable Diseases communicable diseases listed where?

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Accident Investigation Procedures

The senior staff member available at the accident scene or the first
member notified should complete the appropriate investigation reporting form
(accident, incident, near miss). The completed form should be given to the
organization's safety committee, which will forward a copy of the report to the
safety coordinator for review.

When an employee or volunteer is injured:

1. Get the person professional medical attention.

2. Protect others.
3. Minimize property damage.
4. Stabilize the situation.
5. Conduct an investigation.

General guidelines for investigating accidents:

 Go to the scene of the accident while the facts are fresh.

 Inspect and record any changed physical characteristics or conditions of
the accident site
 Preserve any physical evidence, such as potentially defective equipment.
 Take photos to help preserve the scene (i.e., puddles on the floor,
overturned storage shelves and spilled contents).
 Talk to the injured person, if possible.
 Talk to any eyewitnesses.
 Ask simple open-ended questions, one question at a time, and attempt to
have events related chronologically to ensure thorough coverage.
 Distinguish a person's actual knowledge from hearsay.
 Ask when, where, who, how, and what was said or done.
 Avoid opinions, judgments or conclusions and be as objective as possible.
Avoid commenting on the information gathered except to confirm your
understanding or to clarify.
 Stress getting the facts.
 Do not comment on liability or fault during the investigation. Listen for
clues in the conversation around you.
 Unsolicited comments often have merit.
 Review and finalize any notes immediately upon completion of your
inspection and any interview or other communication with those involved.

224
 Fill out the appropriate accident, incident or near-miss form, giving an
accurate account of the facts.
 Send the form to the safety coordinator and safety committee for their
review.

Accident reports

Forms are used to give specific details with regards to the accidents
happened in the laboratory during experiments.

Accident reports contain the following details:

 Name of the person injured

 Date and time of the accident
 Type of injury
 First aid given
 Action taken to prevent further accidents

Task. Accomplish the sample Accident report sample form

Date:

Form No: Accident Report Form

Rm. No:

Name: Yr/Sec:

Type of Injury Cause of Injury Remedy

225
Replacing different Components

When replacing computer parts and peripherals, you need to consider the
following factors:

1. Compatibility of the component or part

2. Consider the component specification
3. Components form factor

Compatibility of the Component

When replacing computer parts you should check if it is compatible
with your unit. Double check on your computer manual if the component you
are replacing is compatible or not with the unit because this may lead to
system crash.
Component Specification

This focuses on the specification of the component. Check if the

voltage rating, current rating, memory size and frequency matches your
computer unit.

Form factor

The components’ manufacturer should be considered. Check if the unit

you are trying to repair or upgrade is generic or branded units. Branded units
have their own set of components compatible only to their units, while genetic
types can be used only to generic type of units.

List of Components Commonly Replaced in a Computer System

1. Memory
2. Video Cards (also referred to as a graphics accelerator)
3. Network Interface Card
4. Hard disk drive
5. Motherboard
6. Processor
7. CMOS Battery
8. CD/DVD Drive
9. Sound card

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Directions: Write your answer on your notebook

1. Give the functions of each component.

a. Memory
b. Video card
c. NIC
d. Motherboard
e. HDD

2. Factors to consider when replacing a component.

a. _____________________
b. _____________________
c. _____________________

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Upgrading Your Computer Components

To upgrade means to change some parts with faster and better

performing ones. These parts may even cost less and more powerful.

Commonly Upgraded Computer Parts

1. Monitors- replace old CRT monitors to new LCD or LED monitors.

2. Optical drives- old CD-ROMs drives are commonly replaced with DVD-
ROM and DVD writers.
3. Hard Drives- small capacity hard drives are replaced with faster and high
capacity hard drives.
4. Keyboards and mouse- keyboards and mouse are commonly replaced with
optical mouse and wireless keyboards.
5. RAM (Random Access Memory)- upgrading the computer’s memory or
RAM speeds up the performance of the computer
6. Video cards- upgrade computer’s graphics card to improve the computer
performance in terms of graphics and games.
7. Processors- replacing the processors increase the data processing speed.
8. Modem- installing a modem enables your computer to connect to the
internet.

How to Speed up the Computer

1. Defragmenter utility: Automatically analyzes the empty disk space on
the hard disk and defrag all scattered files.

228
 Figure 26. Defragmenter Utility

2. Shutdown Unnecessary programs: Close all unwanted programs at the

Windows start up and this will automatically increase the windows loading
time and speed of the computer will also be increased.

3. Increased memory: Increasing the memory in the system will result to

exceptional speed of your computer.

4. Disk Cleanup: You can delete unwanted programs and files from your
computer and this will be helpful in increasing the speed.

Figure 27. Disk Cleanup

5. Empty Recycle Bin: Delete all the files and folders from the recycle bin
and you will get the space of C drive for reusability.

229
 Figure 28. Emptying the recycle bin

Memory Upgrade
To make your computer faster, you can upgrade its memory. Here are
the steps in upgrading your computer’s memory
1. Remove the memory modules from the slot.

Figure 29. Removing memory module from the slot

2. In Figure 30 the notches we have marked

as A are used for the ejector clip on the
DIMM slot.

The notches we have marked as B is used Figure 30. Notch A

to align the memory module with the DIMM
slot key C as shown in Figure 31.

In Figure 31 you can see the ejector clips

(D), using your finger, push these into the
down position as shown in Figure 31 this
allows the memory to be inserted.
Figure 31. DIMM Slot

230
3. Now you are ready to install the module,
ensuring the notches line up with the keys
gently but firmly push the memory into the
slot until it is seated fully(see Figure 32 the
ejector clips should rise to the vertical
position as shown in Figure 33). Figure 32. Ejector clips

4. Now your memory is installed. Be sure

you have not loosened any cables while
working and also ensure that the memory
module is fully seated and the ejector clips
are in the vertical position. Figure 33. Ejector clips in vertical
position

Video card Upgrade

1. Take the video card (hold it by the edges) and line it up with the slot
paying careful attention to the alignment notch. When it is aligned correctly,
press gently but firmly until the card is seated fully and evenly into the slot.
2. When you are happy that the card is firmly in place, insert the fixing
screw and check to make sure you have not loosened anything during
installation.
3. When you reboot your machine Windows (or other OS) should find the
card automatically, it may then ask you to insert the disk/CD that came with
your video card, insert the CD and follow the on-screen instructions to install
the video card driver.

Hard Drive Upgrade

The first thing to do (after removing the case covers) is to locate the
drive bay where the hard drive will go.

231
The next step is to attach the IDE and power cables.

In figure 34 below you can see a standard IDE Cable, note there are
three (3) connections (notice the difference in distance between the
connectors). Connection A plugs into the motherboard and then the slave and
master connections are used for IDE devices such as hard drives, if you are
only installing one drive or the new drive is to be the master then use the
master connector, if the drive is to be the slave then use the slave connector.

The IDE cable will be marked down one side with a red or black strip,
this denotes Pin 1, match this with the Pin 1 indicator on the back of the hard
drive.

The power cable you will find in your case is attached to your power
supply; you can see an example below in figure 35.

Figure 34. Standard IDE Cable Figure 35.Power Cable

232
Basic Network Errors

If your network connection is not configured properly or suffers a

technical failure, you will often see some error message generated and
displayed on your screen. These messages give helpful clues to the nature of
the issue. Use this list of the common network-related error messages to help
troubleshoot and fix networking problems.

Network Problem error Messages

Network problem error message 1

Read the message in the box.

Box running software 14.8 and Box running software 14.7 and below:
above:
A network adapter was not
No network adapter. (N01) detected. (N01)

Please make sure that your network Please make sure that your network
adapter is securely plugged into a USB adapter is securely plugged into a USB
port on the back of the box. port on the back of the box.

Possible solution for error message 1

Quick 1. If you have a TiVo Wireless G or N Adapter: Remove the adapter

Steps from the TiVo box for 15 – 60 seconds and reconnect. Then force a
connection to the TiVo service.
2. Try another USB port (when applicable).

3. If these steps have not resolved your issue, see Detailed Steps
below for additional assistance.

233
 Network problem error message 2
Read the message in the box.
Box running software 14.8 and Box running software 14.7 and
above: below:

Problem with router. (N03) The DHCP server was unable to

supply an IP address.(N03)
It might be temporarily out of IP
addresses. Wait a few minutes, and It might be temporarily out of IP
then try connecting again. If the addresses. Wait a few minutes, and
DHCP server is part of your home then try connecting again. If the
network, try increasing the number of DHCP server is part of your home
IP addresses it can assign. network, try increasing the number of
IP addresses it can assign.

Possible solution for error message 2

1. Power cycle your network, then force a connection to the

TiVo service.
Quick Steps

2. Renew the DHCP lease on your router.

NOTE: Please contact your router manufacturer if
you are unsure how to do this.

3. If these steps have not resolved your issue, see Detailed

Steps below for additional assistance.

Network problem error message 3

Read the message in the box:
Box running software 14.8 and Box running software 14.7 and below:
above:
The specified IP address (<IP
Problem with network Address>) is already in use by another
settings. (N05) device on the network. (N05)

Change your network settings to Change your network settings to use a

use a different (and unused) IP different (and unused) IP address.
address.

234
Possible solution for error message 3

1. If the box is using a static IP address, then it will need to be

changed. See How to configure network settings on your TiVo
Quick Steps box for instructions.
2. Power cycle your network devices, then force a connection
to the TiVo service.
3. Renew the DHCP lease on your router.
NOTE: Please contact your router manufacturer if
you are unsure how to do this.

Network problem error message 4

Read the message in the box:
Box running software 14.8 and Box running software 14.7 and below:
above:
Could not connect to the wireless
Wireless Network Not Found. (N06) network (<Network Name>). (N06)

Possible solution for error message 4

1. Verify your TiVo box has the latest software version to

support the encryption used by your router.
2. Make sure your wireless network is operational and you have
sufficient signal strength where the box is located. See How to
configure network settings on your TiVo box for instructions.
3. Verify you entered the correct the correct name of your
network and/or the correct encryption key or password.
Quick Steps

4. Check for possible interference sources nearby, such as

microwave ovens, cordless phones, etc.

5. Power cycle your network devices, then force a connection to

the TiVo service.
6. Move your wireless adapter to improve signal strength.
7. Contact your router manufacturer to determine whether you
need to update your router firmware.

8. If these steps have not resolved your issue, see Detailed

Steps below for additional assistance.

235
 Network problem error message 8
Read the message in the box:
Box running software 14.8 and Box running software 14.7 and below:
above:
Your network adapter has not been
Adapter not set up. (N08) set up for use with the box. (N08)

Select Change network Select Change network settings to

settings to begin setting up your begin setting up your network
network adapter. adapter.

Possible solution for error message 8

1. TiVo Wireless N adapter: Verify that your adapter has

been set up properly. Please see TiVo Wireless N Adapter
Setup for instructions.
Quick Steps

2. Verify you entered the correct name of your

network and/or the correct encryption key or password.
3. Verify your wireless adapter is compatible with your TiVo
box.
4. Try another USB port (when applicable).
5. If these steps have not resolved your issue, see Detailed
Steps below for additional assistance.

Common Network Errors and Solutions

Network Errors Possible Solutions

Network problem is 1. Make sure no any firewall running.
not accessible 2. Make sure you have created the same
workgroup, and the same username for
Message: "....is not logging on a remote computer.
accessible. You may 3. Check user's rights.
not have permission 4. You may want to enable guest account on
to use this network windows.
resource. Contact the 5. if you are using simple file sharing, you may
administrator of this try to disable it and re-share the drive
server to find out if manually.
you have access 6. If it is mixed OS network, enable NetBIOS
permissions. The over TCP/IP.
semaphore timeout 7. Make sure the Computer Browser service is
period has expired." started if all computers are w2k/xp.
8. Stop Computer Browser service on wwin9x,

236
 ME and NT if this is a mixed OS network.
9. Cache credential by using net
use \\computername\share /user:username
command (it is better to have the username
logon shared computer).
10. If you have tried enabling netbios over tcp/ip
but doesn't work, you may try to load netbeui
(loading netbeui may slow your network).
11. Make sure the server service is running.
12. Still need help, contact
consultant at http://hidev.com/contactus.asp f
or the tech support.

Network problem not 1. Type command "net share" on the shared

available. The server computer. If there is not a share named "IPC$"
is not configured for in the share list, use the command "net share
transactions" ipc$" to create it.

An extended error has 1. This issue may occur if the workstation doesn't
occurred" or "Access synchronize the time with the server. After
Denied" Symptoms: verifying that basic network connectivity exists,
When mapping a you can force time synchronization on the
network drive using client computer manually. To do this, run net
net use or using time /domain /set command.
the net 2. Make sure you have granted enough licenses
view command to for clients accessing.
view a different
computer in the
domain, you may
receive: "An extended
error has occurred" or
"Access Denied" error
messages.

“Computer name is 1. Are you sure the logon user has permission to
not accessible. No the shared folder?
permission to access 2. Have you tried to logon using the same user
the resources" name and password of the accessed
computer?
3. The last and risky one, if you enable guest
account in computer, can you access now?

237
"Multiple connections 1. Try using net use /d from a command to clear
to the server or allyour mapped connections before joining the
shared resource domain. You can also disconnect the mapped
are not allowed" drive in Windows Explorer by right-click the
mapped drive and select disconnection.
Symptom: when
attempting to join a
domain, you may
receive "Multiple
connections to the
server or shared
resource are not
allowed. Please
disconnect all
previous connections
to the server or
shared resource and
try again."

"Network path not 1. This issue may occur if the TCP/IP NetBIOS
found" in a domain Helper Service is not running on the client
network 1 computer. To start the TCP/IP NetBIOS
Helper Service, go to MMS>Services, double-
SYMPTOMS: click TCP/IP NetBIOS Helper Service.
When trying to join a
domain by using he
NetBIOS domain
name, you are
successful but not the
FQDN and you may
receive one of the
following error
messages:

1) The following error

occurred attempting
to join domain
"example.com": The
network location
cannot be reached.
For information about
network
troubleshooting, see
Windows Help.

238
2) Network path not
found.

"Network path not 1. You can find some computer browser errors
found" in a domain on the DNS server. Disable one of two NICs
network 2 will work. More resolutions can be found in
browser Issue page.

"Network path not 1. Make sure that File and Printer Sharing is
found" in a workgroup enabled on the shared computer.
network - error 53 Make sure that shared machine has
something shared.
2. Make sure that you have created the same
workgroup and logon the same username
Make sure that you have enabled NetBIOS
over TCP/IP if this is a mixed OS network.

"Not accessible. You 1. Enable NetBIOS over TCP/IP on one or more

may not have computers in the workgroup. To do that, go to
permission to use this properties of Local Area
network resource" Connection>properties of Internet Protocol
(TCP/IP)>General> Advanced>WINS, check
Symptom: Your peer- Enable NetBIOS over TCP/IP (If you have
to-peer network, may a DHCP-assigned IP address, select Use
receive the following NetBIOS setting from the DHCP server ).
error when you 2. Make sure the Computer Browser service is
double-click My started.
Network
Places/Computers
Near Me: <Workgroup
Name> is not
accessible. You may
not have permission
to use this network
resource.

"Not enough server 1. The registry value IRPstackSize may be not

storage is available to explicitly present. To increase the value of the
process this parameter, go to the key
command." error. HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentC
ontrolSet\Services\
SYMPTOMS: When LanmanServer\Parameters. If the key is not
accessing shares on present, choose Add Value in the Registry
a server from a client, Editor. The Value Name should be

239
you may receive "Not IRPStackSize and the Data Type is
enough server REG_DWORD.
storage is available to 2. Remove any unnecessary entries from this
process this value in the registry,
command." error. You HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentCo
may receive this ntrolSet\Services\LanmanServer\Parameters\
message and Event NullSessionPipes.
ID: 2011 after you 3. Disable Norton antivirus to see if that will fix
install Norton the problem.
Antivirus for Windows.

"No logon server This sounds like cache credential issue.

available"
1. Make sure the computers in the same
Symptoms: you can network, the same workgroup/domain and
ping the server by have created the same username.
ip and name but 2. Use net
can't map the use \\servername\sharename password /user:
shared drive by username to cache the credential.
using net
use \\ip or \\server
name. If you try,
you may receive
the "No logon
server available".

Still need help, 1. Disable ICF if you don't need it.

contact 2. Open port # (UDP and TCP) from 135 through
consultant at http://hid 139 and/or 445. to do this, go to the properties
ev.com/contactus.asp of the
for the tech support. connection>Advanced>ICF>Settings>Service
s. For Microsoft file sharing SMB: add (UDP
"System error 6118 and TCP) ports from 135 through 139. For
has occurred. The list direct-hosted SMB traffic without network
of servers for this basic input/output system (NetBIOS) uses port
workgroup is not (TCP and UDP) 445. Note: the external and
currently internal port numbers should be identical.
available." Symptoms:
When using the net
view
\\computername com
mand, you receive the
following error

240
message: System
error 6118 has
occurred. The list of
servers for this
workgroup is not
currently available.

"The password is 1. You need to setup every user that needs

incorrect. Try again" access to the shared folder on every computer
they have to connect to. Then give the proper
user proper permission to the shared folder.
2. Logon the same user and password.
3. As always, you can try to enable a guest
account on the accessed machine.

"There are no entries 1. If there are no file or print shares on the

on the list" computer, the net view command displays a
"There are no entries in the list" message. So,
Symptom: when using make sure there are file or print shares on the
net computer. Or to use net share command to
view \\remotecompute check sharing status.
r command, you may 2. Make sure no firewall running because the
receive "There are no firewall may block sharing.
entries on the list".
And you may have a
problem to access the
remote computer.

"Unable to access 1. NetBIOS over TCP/IP. To do that, go to the

Computers near Me" properties of TCP/IP>Advanced>WINS. If you
or "Workgroup is not are using a static Internet Protocol (IP)
accessible" errors address, click
2. Enable NetBIOS over TCP/IP. If you have a
DHCP-assigned IP address, click Use
NetBIOS setting from the DHCP server.
No Master Browser or too many browsers may
cause this issue. Check Browser issue.

"Unable to Browse 1. Have you loaded the NIC or is it working?

Network" 2. Have you loaded common protocol, TCP/IP?
3. Does the Computer browser work?
Symptom: When you 4. Have you enable file and printer sharing in the

241
attempt to browse accessed computer?
your network by 5. Is the workstation service running?
opening Entire
Network in My
Network
Places/Network
Neighborhood, you
may receive the
following error
message: Unable to
Browse Network.

242
Award BIOS / CMOS Setup

This is the BIOS setup for Award BIOS v6.00PG. If you have a
different version of the Award BIOS there would be a lot of similarities. If your
BIOS are AMI or Phoenix then the common BIOS features would have some
similarities. Whatever BIOS you have, this setup guide should give you an
idea about how to setup BIOS.

Please note that setting up BIOS incorrectly could cause system

malfunction, therefore it is recommended that you also follow the BIOS guide
provided on your motherboard manual. If you decide to make changes to
certain options it is safer to make a note of what you have changed. Then
restart the system to see how it performs. If the system behaves abnormally
or becomes unstable you can revert back to your previous settings.

Softmenu III

Softmenu III is where you can setup up the CPU without setting
jumpers on the motherboard. You can setup the CPU simply by selecting the
speed i.e. Pentium III 750 from the list. This ensures that the CPU bus,
multiplier, voltage etc, is correctly set for that particular CPU. However you
can manually setup each feature if required. Once you have finished with the
setup press ESC to return the previous menu.

Figure 36. BIOS CMOS Setup Utility

243
Standard CMOS Features

Here you can setup the basic BIOS features such as date, time, type of
floppy etc. Use the arrow keys to move around and press enter to select the
required option. You can specify what IDE devices you have such as Hard
drive, CD-ROM, ZIP drive etc. The easiest way to setup the IDE devices is by
leaving it set to auto. This allows the BIOS to detect the devices automatically
so you don't have to do it manually. At the bottom, it also displays the total
memory in your system.

Figure 37. Standard CMOS Feature

Advanced BIOS Features

As you can see from figure 3, there are numerous advance settings
which you can select if required. For most cases leaving the default setting
should be adequate. As you can see the first boot device is set to floppy. This
ensures that the floppy disk is read first when the system boots, and therefore
can boot from windows boot disk. The second boot device is the Hard disk
and third is set to LS120. If you want to boot from a bootable CD then you can
set the third boot device to CD/DVD-ROM.

244
 Figure 37. Advance Bios Feature

Advanced Chipset Features

Here you can setup the contents of the chipset buffers. It is closely
related to the hardware and is therefore recommended that you leave the
default setting unless you know what you are doing. Having an incorrect
setting can make your system unstable. If you know that your SDRAM can
handle CAS 2, then making changes can speed up the memory timing. If you
have 128MB SDRAM then the maximum amount of memory the AGP card
can use is 128MB.

Figure 38. Advance Bios Chipset

245
Integrated Peripherals

This menu allows you to change the various I/O devices such as IDE
controllers, serial ports, parallel port, keyboard etc. You can make changes as
necessary.

Figure 39. Integrated Peripherals

Power Management Setup

The power management allows you to setup various power saving

features, when the PC is in standby or suspend mode.

Figure 40. Power Management setup

246
PnP/PCI Configurations

This menu allows you to configure your PCI slots. You can assign
IRQ's for various PCI slots. It is recommended that you leave the default
settings as it can get a bit complicated messing around with IRQ's

Figure 41. Pnp/PCI Configurations

PC Health Status

This menu displays the current CPU temperature, the fan speeds,
voltages etc. You can set the warning temperature which will trigger an alarm
if the CPU exceeds the specified temperature.

Figure 42. PC Health Status

247
Load Fail-Safe Defaults

If you made changes to the BIOS and your system becomes unstable
as a result, you can change it back to default. However if you made many
changes and don't know which one is causing the problem, your best bet is to
choose the option "Load Fail Safe Mode Defaults" from the BIOS menu. This
uses a minimal performance setting, but the system would run in a stable
way. From the dialog box Choose "Y" followed by enter to load Fail-Safe
Defaults.

Figure 43. Load fail-safe defaults

Load Optimized Defaults

Like the Fail-Safe mode above, this option loads the BIOS default
settings, but runs the system at optimal performance. From the dialog box
Choose "Y" followed by enter to load Optimized Defaults.

Figure 44. Load optimized

Set Password

To password protect your BIOS you can specify a password. Make

sure you don't forget the password or you cannot access the BIOS. The only
way you can access the BIOS is by resetting it using the reset jumper on the
motherboard.

248
 Figure 45. Load optimized

Save and Exit Setup

To save any changes you made to the BIOS you must choose this
option. From the dialog box choose "Y".

Figure 46. Save to CMOS and EXIT

Exit without Saving

If you don't want to save changes made to the BIOS, choose "N" from
the dialog box.

Figure 47. Quit Without Saving

249
Task 1. The BIOS settings in the CMOS memory have become corrupted
or damaged

Task: Check the CMOS battery and replace if needed.

Procedure:

1. Power on your desktop pc and wait for the POST

2. Read the Power on self-test report and do the necessary procedure to
solve the problem.
3. Boot up your pc into BIOS setup.
4. Look for incorrect or changing time settings. A noticeable symptom is an
invalid time showing within the operating system. This symptom is confirmed
if time sets after the computer system is restarted. Under these
circumstances, the CMOS battery should be replaced.

Procedure: On how to replace the CMOS Battery.

1. Locate your CMOS battery
2. Obtain battery information
3. Removing the battery
4. Insert the new battery
5. Enter CMOS values
You will be assessed using the following criteria

Evaluation
CRITERIA
Passed Failed

1. Sequence of steps in CMOS diagnosing

procedure is followed.

2. Sequence of steps for replacing CMOS battery is

followed carefully.

3. Safety precaution is observed.

Remarks

250
Task 1. Practicing TCP/IP Networking Skills

While connected to the Internet or another TCP/IP network, answer

these questions:

1. What is your current IP address?

2. Release and renew your IP address. Now what is your IP address?

3. Are you using dynamic or static IP addressing? How do you know?

4. What is your adapter address for this connection?

5. What is your default gateway IP address?

6. What response do you get when you ping the default gateway?

Task 2. Investigating Verizon FiOS

Verizon (www.verizon.com) is currently offering an alternative to DSL

and cable modemfor broadband Internet access. FiOS is a fiber-optic Internet
service that uses fiber-opticcable all the way to your house for both your
residential telephone service and Internetaccess. Search the Web for
answers to these questions about FiOS:

1. Give a brief description of FiOS and how it is used for Internet access.

2. What downstream and upstream speeds can FiOS support?

3. When using FiOS, does your telephone voice communication share the
fiber-optic cablewith Internet data?

4. What does Verizon say about FiOS cabling used for television?

5. IsFiOS available in your area?

251
Hardware Upgrade

Tool, Materials, and Equipment

Tools

Philip Screw Deriver

Anti-static wrist strap

Anti-static mat

Equipment

Network Card

Network Card Upgrade

Given the tools and materials, upgrade your computer by installing a

network card.

You will be assessed using the following criteria

Evaluation
CRITERIA
Passed Failed

1. Safety precautions are observed.

2. Appropriate tools are used in upgrading

3. Necessary improvement and adjustment are

done in terms up upgrading.

Remarks

252
LESSON 4: TEST SYSTEMS AND NETWORKS

Testing Computer System

Is your PC healthy? Don't be too sure. Think back to when you heard a
kerklunk sound coming from the hard drive. Or maybe you remember the last
time your Internet connection was down.

The best way to find out what's wrong is to take a proactive approach:
Check under your PC's hood with the following mostly free diagnostic tools,
and see if anything is amiss--before disaster strikes.

Three Major Components of Computer System:

 Hardware
 Software
 Firmware

Test Your Hardware

Checking your computer hardware and its peripherals

1. Computer Monitor and its peripherals

 Monitor and interface cables
 Video card
 Monitor power cable

2. Keyboard and Mouse

 Keyboard connector
 Mouse Connector

253
3. I/O port and devices

 Connection between the I/O port and the peripheral device

 A faulty cable between the I/O port and the peripheral device
 A faulty peripheral device
 Incorrect settings in the System Setup program
 Incorrect settings in the system's configuration files
 Faulty I/O port logic on the system board

4. Power supply

 Power cord
 Fuse

Fuse Power cord

Testing Your Software

Check the different software installed in the computer.
1. Operating system
 Run live updates for your operating systems to get the latest
patches and protection for your OS.
 Run registry scanners to check the OS registry configuration

Figure 48. Operating System

254
2. Application Software
 Check for live updates

Figure 49. Live Updates

3. Anti-virus software

 Run anti-virus program

 Check for virus signature updates
 Check for spyware updates

Test Your Firmware

Firmware- is a combination of hardware and software integrated on a
chip.
To test the firmware
Check for the correct configuration, you can accomplish this by
configuring the BIOS in the computer

Figure 50. BIOS Configuration

255
Sample Accomplishment Report Form

Task to be accomplished Status

Hardware component testing Working Not working

properly properly

Software testing Status

Working Not working

properly properly

256
Error Beep codes

When a PC is first switched on or reset it performs a special diagnostic

test called a POST (Power-On Self Test), to check all components in the PC,
the POST program sends out a signal to each device initializing each device's
built-in self test procedure.

The POST test is a two stage process:

1. First, it will check all the basic components including among other things
the system clock, the processor, RAM, the keyboard controller and the Video

2. After the video has been tested the BIOS will then indicate any errors
encountered by displaying either a numeric code or a text message on the
screen.

When a device fails the first part of the POST, the BIOS will send a
series of beeps from the PC's speaker (internal) to inform the PC user that
there is a problem these beeps are coded allowing the user to diagnose the
troublesomemcomponent.

When the POST has been completed successfully, the PC will make a
short beep to let the user know everything is as it should be.

Three (3) major brands of BIOS chip

1. AWARD BIOS
2. Phoenix BIOS
3. AMI BIOS

257
Each type of BIOS chip has it own error code

AMI BIOS ERROR BEEP CODES

Indicator Error message Solution

Memory refresh failure Check memory

1 Beep Memory parity error

Memory read/write error Check memory

2 Beeps
Motherboard timer not Check memory
3 Beeps functioning
Processor error
Gate A20/keyboard Replace motherboard
4Beeps controller failure Replace processor

5Beeps Processor exception Replace motherboard

interrupt
Replace processor
6 Beeps Display memory
read/write failure Replace video card
7 Beeps ROM checksum error
Replace BIOS
8 Beeps CMOS shutdown chip/Motherboard
read/write error Replace BIOS
9 Beeps Bad cache memory chip/Motherboard
10 Beeps Replace cache memory

258
Phoenix BIOS ERROR BEEP CODES

Phoenix BIOS beep codes are a series of beeps separated by a

pause, for example:
beep --- beep beep --- beep --- beep beep would be 1-2-1-2

Indicator Error message Solution

1-1-4-1 Cache error Check cache memory

Check BIOS ROM
1-2-2-3 BIOS ROM Checksum

DRAM test rate Check DRAM

1-3-1-1
Keyboard controller Check keyboard
1-3-1-3 test controller
RAM failure Check memory

1-3-4-1 Check memory

RAM failure data bits Check memory
of low memory bus
1-3-4-3
RAM failure data bits
of high memory bus
1-4-1-1 Check ROM
ROM copyright notice
2-1-2-3
Test for unexpected
interrupt

259
AWARD BIOS ERROR BEEP CODES

Indicator Error message Solution

One long beep and Video error Replace video card

two short beeps

Two short beeps

Non-fatal error Reset RAM, Check
other components.

Directions: Answer the following questions and place your answers on your
answer sheet.

1. What does the acronym POST stand for?

2. What are the Three Major Brand of BIOS chips
3. Identify the following error codes:

 1-2-2-3
 1-3-4-1
 2-1-2-3
 1-1-4-1
 1-3-1-1

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Directions:

Test I. Identify the tools presented below and write your answer in separate
paper.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

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Directions:

Test II. List down at list Five (5) common problem and solution. Use a
separate sheet of paper if needed.

Common Problem Solution

Task 1.Understanding Hardware Documentation

Obtain the manual for the motherboard for your PC. (If you cannot find the
manual, try downloading it from the motherboard manufacturer’s Web site.)
Answer these questions:

1. What processors does the board support?

2. What type of RAM does the board support?

3. What is the maximum RAM the board can hold?

4. If the board has a PCIe slot, what version of PCIe does the board use?

5. What chipset does the board use?

Task 2. Teaching Yourself about Windows Meeting Space

Using the Windows Help and Support window, Search for information
on Windows MeetingSpace. Describe the tool. When would you want to use
it? What can you do with WindowsMeeting Space? Set up and test the tool
with a friend on a network connection.

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Task 1. Testing a Computer Unit

Equipment, Tools, and Materials:

Tools

Multi-tester

Screw driver

Equipment

Computer unit

Monitor

Keyboard and mouse

Power cables

Materials

Bond paper

Ruler and Pencil

Hardware Testing and Documentation

Directions: Test the following computer peripherals and equipment with the
use of the tools provider. Document your testing with the use of an
accomplishment form.

Assigned Task Condition

Hardware component testing Working Not working

properly properly

Computer monitor
Power supply

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 Keyboard
Mouse

You will be assessed using the following criteria

CRITERIA Percentage

1. Sequence of steps in testing is followed. 20%

2. Safety precautions are observed. 20%

3. Appropriate tools are used in testing. 30%

4. An accomplishment report is created. 30%

Performance Rating 100%

Task 2.Identify Error codes

Equipment, Tools, and Materials:

Tools

Screw drivers
Anti-static wrist strap

Equipment

Computer unit

Memory Error Codes

Given the tools and equipment, identify the memory error code by removing
the module in the computer unit

264
You will be assessed using the following criteria

Evaluation:

CRITERIA Percentage

1. Observance of safety precautions. 30%

2. Appropriate tools are used in testing. 30%

3. Identifying the error code. 40%

Performance Rating 100%

265
POST ASSESSMENT

Do the Activity on More Security for Remote Desktop

When Enzo travels on company business, he finds it’s a great help to

access his office computer from anywhere on the road using Remote
Desktop. However, he wants to make sure his office computer as well as the
entire corporate network is as safe as possible.

One way to help Enzo add more security is to change the port that
Remote Desktop uses. Knowledgeable hackers know that Remote Desktop
uses port 3389, but if you change this port to a secret port, hackers are less
likely to find the open port. Search the Microsoft Knowledge Base articles
(support.microsoft.com) for a way to change the port that Remote Desktop
uses.

Practice implementing this change by doing the following:

1. Set up Remote Desktop on a computer to be the host computer. Use

another computer (the client computer) to create a Remote Desktop session
to the host computer. Verify the session works by transferring files in both
directions.

2. Next, change the port that Remote Desktop uses on the host computer to a
secret port. Print a screen shot showing how you made the change. Use the
client computer to create a Remote Desktop session to the host computer
using the secret port. Print a screen shot showing how you made the
connection using the secret port. Verify the session works by transferring files
in both directions.

3. What secret port did you use?

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Instruction:
 Read each of the questions in the left-hand column of the chart.
 Place a check on the columnthat indicate your answers

I Can YES NO
Plan and prepare work to ensure occupational health and
safety
(OHS) policies and procedures are followed
Obtain materials, tools, equipment and testing devices
needed to onform with job requirements
Interpret work instructions according to job requirements
Obtain computer components/devices/systems and
determines its location prior to installation
Install equipment/devices/systems in accordance with job
requirements
Check/Test devices/systems and/or installations to
determine the conformity to job requirements.
Check computer systems and networks for configuration
in accordance with specifications and requirements
Diagnose fault or problem in the computer systems and
networks in line with standard operating procedures
(SOP)

Configure the identified systems and networks based on

specifications and job requirements
Inspect and test configured computer systems and
networks in conformity with manufacturer's
instructions/manual
Correct/Adjust components or parts of computer systems
and networks in accordance with job requirements
Test computer systems and networks to ensure safe
operation
Perform scheduled/periodic maintenance in accordance
with manufacturer's requirements
Make needed repairs/replacements in accordance with
established procedures, when necessary
Document tasks undertaken in accordance with SOP
Clean and clear worksite of all surplus/excess materials in
accordance with company SOP

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I. Identify what computer error is illustrated on the following situations.

__________1. The LED indicator of your monitor is in steady orange color.

_________ 2.When you open your PC, nothing shows up in your monitor and
the LED indicator of your monitor is flashing in yellow color.

__________3. When you open your PC it will show the processor brand
and/or the motherboard brand but doesn't continue. Usually this error will
result to system restart over and over again.

__________4.This also happens even if you try disconnecting your computer

set from the internet. This is what we called aftershock virus which will
continue to run even if internet is disconnected.

__________5. The computer opens up then boots but when the operating
system loads it doesn't continue and it will take a lifetime if you're going to
wait for it to load.

__________6. This happens even if you try installing the hardware. When
you restart your set it will happen again.

__________7. When you try going to safe mode all you will see is a list of
files in Command prompt style.

__________8. Upon loading he operating system, you will hear a loading

sound and then the sound stops, when you try running an audio file, no sound
will be heard

__________9.This will happen only in standby mode, when you move your
mouse or type something, your system will automatically restart and the worst
part is it will delete a file at random.

__________10. Just like the mouse problem, when you open a program that
will take the whole screen like for example a game and/or a program
applications, when you close it, it will cause your system to restart.

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II. Choose the letter of the best answer:

1) These are moderately dangerous types of errors among those that can
pop up on your PC. System errors are caused by malfunctioning
hardware components, corrupted operating system modules, etc.
a. System error c. Stop errors
b. Runtime errors d. Device managers errors

2) These are caused by corrupted or malfunctioning system files or

software executables. Most runtime errors cause the application that
caused it to shut down. However, more serious runtime errors may
cause the system to become unstable or unresponsive, leaving you
with no choice but to reach for the Reset button.
a. System error c. Stop errors
b. Runtime errors d. Device managers errors

3) These are caused by corrupted hardware, especially malfunctioning

RAM modules and bad sectors on hard disks. Stop errors can be
difficult to resolve at times.
a. System error c. Stop errors
b. A Runtime errors d. Device managers errors

4) These are usually caused by corrupted driver files or malfunctioning

hardware components. In case of the former cause, the problem is
usually solved simply by reinstalling or updating the drivers. However,
the latter cause can often be solved only by replacing hardware
components.
a. System error c. Stop errors
b. B. Runtime errors d. Device managers errors

5) Theseare caused by malfunctioning hardware components, and are

characterized by short beep sounds from the tiny internal speaker of
your motherboard. POST code errors occur when you press the power
button to turn on your PC..
a. System error c. Application errors
b. B. Runtime errors d. Post Code errors

6) These can be caused at any point of time. As the name suggests,

these are caused by applications while those are running. These are

269
 usually caused by glitches in the program code itself. These are
usually resolved by updating the program to its latest version.
a. System error c. Application errors
b. Browser status errors d. Post Code errors

7) These are caused by problems faced by browsers when trying to

access a website. These can be caused by misplaced web pages in
the server of the website itself, or due to connection problems. For
instance, a 404 error would indicate that the browser is trying to access
a webpage that does not exist in the specified location.
a. System error c. Application errors
b. Browser status errors d. Post Code errors

8) is define as the flow of electron or electric current. It is an invisible form

of energy that can be transform into other form of energy like heat light
and mechanical.

a. electricity c. Proton
b. atom d. Post Code errors
9) the amount of pulling force that makes the electron flow. Also known
as potential difference or EMF(electromotive force).
a. electricity c. Current
b. resistance d. Voltage
10) a type of circuit that has an open path for current to flow. It means that
current cannot flow in open circuit.
a. Open circuit c. Current circuit
b. resistance d. close circuit

III. Match Column A with Column B

Column A Column B
1. Used for installing and A. Screw drivers
removing screws in the
computer unit.
2. Used for picking small parts in B. Pliers and tweezers
the computer unit.
3. Used for eliminating C. Soldering iron
electrostatic discharge in the
work area.
4. Primarily used for connecting D. Lens cleaner
terminals in the power supply

270
 and circuit board with the use
of a soldering lead.
5. It is a paste used for heat E. Anti-static wrist strap, mat and
dissipation of the processor. spray
6. A device used for cleaning F. Thermal paste
optical media, such as DVD-
ROMS and CD-writers.
7. A device used to crimp the G. LAN Tester
RJ45 connector to the UTP
cable
8. A device used for testing the H. Crimping tool
network connection
I. Systems Tool Box

IV. Arrange the following steps in verifying the correct protocols are
installed on the computer.

_____Within the configuration tab double-click the TCP/IP protocol icon.

Note: Do not click on the PPP or Dial-Up adapter, click on the network card
adapter.

_____Select the option to specify an IP address

_____Click Start / Settings / Control Panel

_____Double-click the Network icon

_____In the TCP/IP properties click the IP address tab

_____When specifying these values, the computers on the network must all
have the same Subnet Mask and have a different IP Address. For example,
when using the above values on one computer you would want to use an IP
address of 102.55.92.2 on another computer and then specify the same
Subnet Mask.
_____Enter the IP address and Subnet Mask address, an example of such an
address could be:IP Address: 102.55.92.1, Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.192

271
V. List down at list Five (5) common computer problems and solutions.

Common Computer Problems Solutions

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

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Books and Articles and Printed Materials:

Barry Press, Marcia Press, PC Upgrade and Repair Bible,

Desktop Edition., Wiley Publishing Inc., 10475 Crosspoint
Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 46256

Ron Gilster, PC Repair Bench Book., Wiley Publishing Inc., 10475

Crosspoint Boulevard, Indianapolis, IN 46256
Barry Press, Marcia Press, PC Upgrade and Repair Bible, Desktop
Edition., Wiley Publishing Inc., 10475 Crosspoint Boulevard,
Indianapolis,
IN 46256

Ronaldo V. Ramiloand Deover M. Pasco , K to 12 Basic Education

Curriculum- Technology and Livelihood EducationLearning Module
–Computer Hardware Servicing

JethroCampos , et.al , Competency – Based Learning Materials for

Strengthening Technical Vocational Education Program

273
Computer System - The complete computer made up of the CPU, memory
and related electronics (main cabinet), all the peripheral devices connected to
it and its operating system. Computer systems fall into two broad divisions:
clients and servers. Client machines fall into three categories from low to high
end: laptop, desktop and workstation. Servers range from small to large: low-
end servers, midrange servers and mainframes.

Configuration - The makeup of a system. To "configure" is to choose options

in order to create a custom system. "Configurability" is a system's ability to be
changed or customized.

Connector - Any plug and socket that links two devices together. Although
taken for granted and rarely in the limelight, connectors are a huge industry,
and the quality of these components is more critical than most people would
imagine. When not designed or constructed properly, they often become the
weakest element in an electronic system.

Display Adapter- A plug-in card in a desktop computer that converts the

images created in the computer to the electronic signals required by the
monitor. It determines the maximum resolution, refresh rate and number of
colors that can be displayed, which the monitor must also be able to support.
On many PC motherboards, the display adapter circuits are built into the
chipset, and an AGP or PCI card is not required.

ESD (Electro Static Discharge)-A small amount of static electricity that can
destroy small parts of your computer.

Expansion Board - A printed circuit board that plugs into an expansion slot
and extends the computer's capability to control a peripheral device. All the
boards (cards) that plug into a computer's bus are expansion boards, such as
display adapters, disk controllers, network adapters and sound cards.

Expansion Bus - An input/output bus typically comprised of a series of slots

on the motherboard. Expansion boards (cards) are plugged into the bus. ISA
and PCI are the common expansion buses in a PC.

Graphical User Interface- A graphics-based user interface that incorporates

movable windows, icons and a mouse. The ability to resize application
windows and change style and size of fonts are the significant advantages of
a GUI vs. a character-based interface. GUIs have become the standard way

274
users interact with a computer, and the major GUIs are the Windows and Mac
interfaces along with Motif for Unix and the GNOME and KDE interfaces for
Linux.

Motherboard - Also called the "system board," it is the main printed circuit
board in an electronic device, which contains sockets that accept additional
boards. In a desktop computer, the motherboard contains the CPU, chipset,
PCI bus slots, AGP slot, memory sockets and controller circuits for the
keyboard, mouse, disks and printer. It may also have built-in controllers for
modem, sound, display and network, obviating the need to plug in a card. A
laptop motherboard typically has all peripheral controllers built in.

Operating System - The master control program that runs the computer. The
first program loaded when the computer is turned on, its main part, the
"kernel," resides in memory at all times. The operating system sets the
standards for all application programs that run in the computer. The
applications "talk to" the operating system for all user interface and file
management operations. Also called an "executive" or "supervisor," an
operating system performs the following functions.

Peripheral -Any hardware device connected to a computer, such as a

monitor, keyboard, printer, disk, tape, graphics tablet, scanner, joy stick,
paddle or mouse

Server - A computer system in a network that is shared by multiple users.

Servers come in all sizes from x86-based PCs to IBM mainframes. A server
may have a keyboard, monitor and mouse directly attached, or one keyboard,
monitor and mouse may connect to any number of servers via a KVM switch.
Servers may be also be accessed only through a network connection as well.

Sound Card- Also called a "sound board" or "audio adapter," it is a computer

expansion board that records and plays back sound, providing inputs from a
microphone or other sound source and outputs to speakers or an external
amplifier. The de facto standard for sound card compatibility in PCs is
Creative Labs' Sound Blaster.

User Interface - All graphics based today, the user interface includes the
windows, menus and method of interaction between you and the computer.
Prior to the Mac, Windows and Motif (Unix) interfaces, all interaction was
based on commands entered by the user. Operating systems may support
optional interfaces and allow a new shell, or skin, to be used instead.

Virus- Software used to infect a computer. After the virus code is written, it is
buried within an existing program. Once that program is executed, the virus

275
code is activated and attaches copies of itself to other programs in the
system. Infected programs copy the virus to other programs.

276