DEMONSTRATION

What is a Motherboard?
A motherboard is one of the most essential parts of a computer system. It holds
together many of the crucial components of a computer, including the central
processing unit (CPU), memory and connectors for input and output devices. The
base of a motherboard consists of a very firm sheet of non-conductive material,
typically some sort of rigid plastic. Thin layers of copper or aluminium foil,
referred to as traces, are printed onto this sheet. These traces are very narrow
and form the circuits between the various components. In addition to circuits, a
motherboard contains a number of sockets and slots to connect the other
components.

Parts of a Motherboard
If you were to open up your computer and take out the motherboard, you would probably
get pretty confused about all the different parts. Depending on the make and model of your
computer, it might look something like this.
To understand how computers work, you
don't need to know every single part of the
motherboard. However, it is good to know
some of the more important parts and how
the motherboard connects the various parts of
a computer system together. Here are some of
the typical parts:

 A CPU socket - the actual CPU is

directly soldered onto the socket. Since
high speed CPUs generate a lot of heat,
there are heat sinks and mounting
points for fans right next to the CPU
socket.
 A power connector to distribute power
to the CPU and other components.
 Slots for the system's main memory,
typically in the form of DRAM chips. Photograph of a typical motherboard of a desktop computer

 A chip forms an interface between the

CPU, the main memory and other components. On many types of motherboards,
this is referred to as the Northbridge. This chip also contains a large heat sink.
 A second chip controls the input and output (I/O) functions. It is not connected
directly to the CPU but to the Northbridge. This I/O controller is referred to as the
Southbridge. The Northbridge and Southbridge combined are referred to as
the chipset.
 Several connectors, which provide the physical interface between input and output
devices and the motherboard. The Southbridge handles these connections.
 Slots for one or more hard drives to store files. The most common types of
connections are Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE) and Serial Advanced Technology
Attachment (SATA).
 A read-only memory (ROM) chip, which contains the firmware, or startup instructions
for the computer system. This is also called the BIOS.
 A slot for a video or graphics card. There are a number of different types of slots,
including the Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) and Peripheral Component
Interconnect Express (PCIe).

 Additional slots to connect hardware in

the form of Peripheral Component
Interconnect (PCI) slots.

There are certainly a lot of acronyms to get

used to! Don't worry too much about trying to
remember all the parts and their acronyms. The
key is to remember that the motherboard
contains the central processing unit, the
memory, and all the connectors to the rest

Photograph of a typical motherboard with the most important

parts labelled.
of the hardware of the computer system. The board is the 'mother' of all components
- that's where it gets its name.
 Keyboard Demonstration
1. Introduction
The PS/2 interface is disappearing from the new generation PCs being replaced by the USB
interface, which has become the standard interface between the PCs and peripherals. This
change must be followed by keyboard designers, who must integrate the USB interface to
connect the keyboard to the PC.
The aim of this document is to describe how to start and implement a USB keyboard
application using the STK525 starter kit and FLIP in-system programming software.
A familiarity with USB Software. Library for AT90USBxxx Microcontrollers (Doc 7675,
Included in the CD-ROM & Atmel website) and the HID specification
(http://www.usb.org/developers/hidpage) is assumed.

2. Hardware Requirements
The USB keyboard application requires the following hardware:
1. AVR USB evaluation board (STK525, AT90USBKey, STK526...or your own board)
2. AVR USB microcontroller
3. USB cable (Standard A to Mini B)
4. PC running on Windows® (98SE, ME, 2000, XP, Vista), Linux® or MAC® OS with USB 1.1 or
2.0 host.

3. In system programming and Device Firmware Upgrade

To program the device you can use the following methods:

• The JTAG interface using the JTAGICE MKII
• The SPI interface using the AVRISP MKII
• The USB interface thanks to the factory DFU bootloader and FLIP
software.
• The parallel programming using the STK500 or the STK600 Please refer to the
hardware user guide of the board you are using (if you are using Atmel starter kit) to see how
to program the device using these different methods.

Please refer to FLIP(1) help content to see how to install the USB driver and program the
device through the USB interface.
 Note: 1. Flip is a software provided by atmel to allow the user to program the AVR USB
devices through the USB interface (No external hardware required) thanks to the factory DFU
bootloader.

4. Quick start
Once your device is programmed with usb_keyboard.a90 file, you can start the keyboard
demonstration. Check that your device is enumerated as keyboard (see Figure 4-1), then you
can use the kit to send characters to the PC.

The figure below shows the STK525 used by the demo (you may use another kit:
AT90USBKey, STK526, depending on the AVR USB product you are working with):
5. Application overview
The USB Keyboard application is a simple data exchange between the PC and the keyboard.

The PC asks the keyboard if there is new data available each P time (polling interval time),
the keyboard will send the data if it is available, otherwise, it will send a NAK (No
Acknowledge) to tell the PC that there is no data available.

The data exchanges between the PC and the keyboard are called reports. The report which
contains the keys pressed is the report IN (Keyboard to PC). The report which contains the
LEDs status (NUM LOCK, CAPS LOCK, SCROLL LOCK...) is the report OUT (PC to Keyboard). The
figure below shows the structure of these reports:
6. Firmware
As explained in the USB Software Library for AT90USBxxx Microcontrollers (Doc
7675), all USB firmware packages are based on the same architecture (please refer to
this document for more details).
 6.1 keyboard_task.c
This file contains the functions to initialize the hardware which will be used as a keyboard,
collect the report data and put it in the endpoint FIFO to be ready to be sent to the PC.
6.1.1 keyboard_task_init
This function performs the initialization of the keyboard parameters and
hardware resources (joystick...).

6.1.2 kbd_test_hit
This function checks if there is a key pressed and sets the key_hit variable to
true.
6.1.3 keyboard_task
This function checks if any key is pressed (key_hit == true). If it is the case, the
report IN is filled out with the related values and loaded in the USB endpoint FIFO
to be transmited to the host.
6.2 stk_52x.c
This file contains all the routines to manage the STK52x board resources (Joystick,
potentiometer, Temperature sensor, LEDs...).The user should not modify this file
when using the STK52x board. Otherwise he has to build his own hadware
management file.
6.3 How to manage the CAPS, NUMLOCK... LEDs
The keyboard LEDs (CAPS, NUMLOCK...) are managed by the host when the
corresponding key is pressed. When receiving the keycode of CAPS or NUMLOCK...
the host sends a Set_Report request (Out Report) to turn on/off the related LED of
the keyboard. This request is send through the endpoint 0 (control transfer) and has
to be managed as a Set_Configuration request, as shown below:
First the host will send the set_report as showing below:
This request is specific to the HID class, this is why it is not managed by the
usb_standard_request.c file but with the usb_specific_request.c. In this file the
request is decoded following the value of the bmRequest and the bRequest using the
usb_user_read_request() function. The report type (0x02) corresponds to an Out
Report. To handle this request the usb_user_read_request() will call the
hid_set_report() function. This function will acknowledge the setup request and than
allow the user to get the one byte data (you can check the size using the wLength
parameter) to know which LED has to be turned on/off (please refer to the HID
specification for further information regarding the LEDs usage values).
6.4 How to modify my device from non-bootable to bootable
device
Please note that HID device may be bootable or non-bootable. By default,
the HID demo provided by Atmel are non-bootable device. If your application need
to be bootable, you have to modify the sub-class parameter (usb_descriptors.h):
7. PC Software

The USB keyboard application doesn’t require any PC software. Limitations The
demonstration does not manage the OUT report. You have to add the required code
to handle this feature (refer to the section 6.3 for further details)

8. Related Documents

• AVR USB Datasheet (the related to the part number you are using)
• USB Software Library for AT90USBxxx Microcontrollers (Doc 7675)
• USB HID class specification
 Assemble a PC
Introduction:

These instructions have the purpose of generally explaining how to assemble a

computer as the process may differ depending on the components that are being
used. These instructions are meant to be used after selecting all the components
needed to assemble a computer. Before beginning a build, it should be known that
components must be compatible with one another, for example, if you are to use an
AMD CPU it must be paired with an ASUS, MSI, or Gigabyte motherboard. This
concept also applies to limitations such as the amount of MHZ a stick of RAM has and
its compatibility with the motherboard, almost all the components rely on
compatibility with the motherboard. The motherboard also should be researched so
the contact points and outlets can be easily found because all motherboards differ
from each other. Finally, before the process begins make sure to not power the PC
until the build is finished and to treat all parts carefully as they are all fragile and
expensive.
*NOTE: this guide will not contain the instructions needed for custom water cooling. This will
only contain all in one water cooling and fan cooling. This is also not a guide for what parts to
buy and their compatibility.

Recommended Components (for quality of life)

• Zip ties (for cord management)
• Scissors
• Something to organize screws with (such as a pill organizer or pill bottle)

Step1: Create a Space to Work

• This step is important as all components are small.
• Preferably a flat open space with lots of room to work where you are comfortable
working.
Step 2: Installing Motherboard/ Central Processing Unit (CPU)
• Unlatch the CPU housing and avoid touching the golden contact points.
• Gently grab the CPU avoiding the golden pins on the back side. Carefully place the
CPU in the housing in the correct orientation which should be marked with a symbol
or notches which are on both the CPU and motherboard. This should fit easily and
shouldn’t need to be forced in the socket.
• After the CPU is in the housing, close the latch on the housing. This part may need
to be forced and some motherboards come with a plastic piece that will pop off the
front once closed, this part should be saved.

Step 3: Applying Thermal Paste/ Installing the cooling system

*NOTE: Before applying thermal paste make sure that the cooling system doesn’t
obstruct the orientation of the RAM sticks, if it does you may need to reorientate the
sticks or downsize the cooling system.
• After the CPU is installed apply a pea-sized amount of thermal paste directly in the
centre of the front of the CPU. If too much is applied, it will spill over and this can be
cleaned with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab/ paper towel.
• After the paste is applied view the instructions that come with the cooling system
to finish installation as all cooling systems differ based on the type of cooling being
used.
• Plug in the cooling system into the motherboard that is labeled ‘CPU fan’ or ‘CPU
fan header’ to power the system, if an all-in-one system is being used there should
be a place labeled ‘AIO pump’ to plug a second cable in to.

Step 4: Installing the Solid-State Drive (SSD)

• This step requires you to find the contact points, which should be easily found by
looking at the motherboard’s manual. • After the SSD is plugged in you will want to
secure it with the screw that is provided, this may require a small amount of force to
install.

Step 5: Installing the Random-Access Memory (RAM)

• Before installing make sure the clamps that house the RAM are open.
• Align the RAM sticks so they correspond with the breakpoints on the motherboard,
avoid touching the golden contact points. This shouldn’t have to be forced and
should fit with ease.
• Once installed close the clamps that house the RAM to secure. Refer to the
motherboard’s manual for optimal placement of RAM.
Step 6: Installing input Output shield (I/O shield)
• Before installing align with your motherboard so it is in the correct orientation with the
ports. The I/O shield should come with your motherboard.
• Then place into the case in the correct orientation which should match with the placement
of your motherboard. This part will most likely have to be forced into position but it is
important to get it secure so the motherboard doesn’t fall out in the upcoming steps.

Step 7: Installing the motherboard into the case

*NOTE: Cases vary widely in size depending on the size so these instructions may
not directly apply to all cases, such as cases with doors instead of removable panels.
• Remove both side panels on the case and place them in a safe place with the
screws.
• Once the interior is visible tuck away the cords, so the installation is more
manageable.
• Most cases have a noticeable place to place the motherboard, usually noticeable
by at least the screw-holes that correspond to the holes along the side of the
motherboard.
• Once putting the board in the correct orientation matching the input output shield
as discussed in the previous step, secure the board with the provided screws but
make sure to not screw them too tightly to avoid damaging the motherboard. The
motherboard should be budging once installed.

Step 8: Installing additional hard drive (optional)

*NOTE: This is optional and only applies if installing additional storage.
• Locate the bays where the storage units are placed which will vary depending on
the case used. • Remove the bay from the case.
• Depending on the storage unit you are using you will have to visit your cases
manual on how to install them as this step varies depending on the storage device
used and the type of case.

Step 9: Installing additional cooling systems (optional)

*NOTE: This step is optional and required only if you bought extra fans for your
build. Additional cooling is recommended depending on the heat given off by the
components installed to prevent damage. However, most cases come with built-in
fans.
• This step also varies widely depending on the size of your case, and the slots
available for additional fans. Visit the manual of your case for instructions.
• Orient the fans to make sure the air is flowing into the case which should be visible
by the cross bars on the back of the fans.
• Once the fans have been installed make sure to plug them into the fan headers on
the motherboard to provide power, this is also where it might be useful to have zip
ties for cord management to keep the interior looking neat.
• This part only applies if you are using an all-in-one cooling system. Once you have
your fans installed, attach the radiator to the main fans/fan, the radiator tends to be
large, so you’ll want to make sure there is enough space for it.

Step 10: Installing the power supply unit (PSU)

*NOTE: This step varies on case and power supply unit. Typically, the housing is
oriented on the bottom of the case. Some PSUs have a lot of cords while others have
little. Most cases make it easy to manage these cables and it is important to do so to
avoid obstructing air flow into the case.
• Slide the PSU into the designated location and make sure the fan is oriented
pointing outside the case.
• Use the screws provided to lock the PSU into the correct place.
• The motherboard will have a 24-pin connection that will need to be plugged in, and
a 4- 8-pin connector for the CPU that needs to be connected.
• The hard drives that you may have installed will require power as well.
• You will have to connect the cords into the corresponding outlets which should be labeled.
• To connect all switches and USB ports you will have to pull out the cords that were tucked
away in step 6.
• Inspect each cord to find the corresponding port on the motherboard.
Step 11: Installing the Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
*NOTE: This step will vary on the size of your GPU so make sure to check how many
slots it will take which can be single, double, or triple slots.
• Remove as many barrier slots as you need depending on the size of your GPU.
These slots are located on the outside of the case between the input output shield
and the back of the PSU. These may have to be unscrewed or just removed with
force depending on the case.
• Gently pick up the GPU and avoid touching the golden contact points.
• Align the GPU with the PCI lane which is on the motherboard and should be
running horizontally and be next to the shields previously removed.
• This should be placed without much force and once placed if you removed screws
from the slots the screws should be replaced to secure the GPU. • If your GPU has a
cord to connect power, plug that into the corresponding slot into the PSU.

Conclusion
The build should now be completed. Plug in a mouse and keyboard and connect the
monitor to the PC, after it is all connected plug in the PSU into an outlet and turn it
on. If it does not turn on review all steps and make sure all cords are connected to
the right place.
 Troubleshooting And Repair

Troubleshooting And Repair Of DOT Matrix Printer

DOT Matrix Printer:
Dot matrix printing, sometimes called impact matrix printing, is a computer
printing process in which ink is applied to a surface using a relatively low-
resolution dot matrix for layout. Dot matrix printers typically use a print head that
moves back and forth or in an up-and-down motion on the page and prints by
impact, striking an ink-soaked cloth ribbon against the paper, much like the print
mechanism on a typewriter or line printer. However, a dot matrix printer is able to
print arbitrary patterns and not just specific characters.
The perceived quality of dot matrix printers depends on the vertical and horizontal
resolution and the ability of the printer to overlap adjacent dots. 9-pin and 24-pin are
common; this specifies the number of pins in a specific vertically aligned space. With
24-pin printers, the horizontal movement can slightly overlap dots, producing visually
Dot matrix printing is typically distinguished from non-impact methods, such
as inkjet, thermal, or laser printing, though they too may use a bitmap to represent
the printed work. It is also able to employ endless printing using continuous
paper fan folded with perforations for each page to be easily torn from each other.
superior output (near letter quality or NLQ), usually at the cost of speed.

How to troubleshoot Dot Matrix Printer?

Sometimes while you try to print using Dot Matrix Printer, it may not display a output. At this
point, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:

 Open “Notepad” & enter the following text: “Print Test”.

 Save the text file with file name as “Test.txt” in “C:\”.
 Open command prompt and go to “C:\”.
 Enter the following: “Copy /B Text.txt \\localhost\DotPrinter”.
Note : Replace “\\localhost\DotPrinter” with your printer details which you have entered in
the Output Books Print Settings > Printer(input field).
If any issue, you will get error messages. The errors that you may get are listed follow:

Case 1:
Error: “The system cannot find the file specified”.

Solution: Please make sure that “Test.txt” file exists in the folder.

Case 2:
Error: “The network path was not found.”
Printer not exists in the path \\localhost\DotPrinter

Solution: Please make sure to provide the right details \\[[Computer Name]]\[[Printer Share
Name]]

Case 3:
Error: “Network location cannot be reached”

Solution: In ‘Network’ > ‘Ethernet’ > ‘Adapter options’, right Click ‘Ethernet Adapter’ & click
‘Properties’ & enable “Client for Microsoft Networks” (if it is not listed, click on the ‘Install’
button & select). Finally, restart “Windows”.

Case 4:
Error: “Access Is Denied”

Solution: You will have to delete the corrupted files in ‘Spool’ Folder. In ‘Control Panel’ >
‘Services’, please stop the “Print Spooler Service”. Then, delete all the files in “C:\Windows\
System32\Spool\Printer” folder or move it to other folder. Finally, restart the “Print Spooler
Service”.

Very Common problem with dot matrix printers is the formatting of white lines is
printouts these line are mostly horizontal and occur between lines of text or image .This
may occurs due to the problem in the print head
 How to fix
1) Check the print head to see if all the pins are working properly

2) Collection of residue on the print head can lead to printing problem .Clean the print head
with alcohol

3) check coil resistance

4) physically check the head cable for any sign of damage and
connect the cable to the head and logical board properly

5) Ensure that the print ribbon is in good condition and installed properly

6) check transistors available on logic board for any short

7) Replace the head cable with a new one

8) if not of the above step help , replace the print head