Computer Systems

Servicing
MODULE 1

INSTALLING AND CONFIGURING COMPUTER SYSTEMS

(Assemble computer hardware)

 Lesson 1 A ssemble computer hardware

INTRODUCTION

This module was designed and written with you in mind. It is here to effectively
understand and apply the concept of computer hardware assembly procedures in installing and
configuring computer systems (ICCS). The scope of this module permits it to be used in many
different learning situations. The language used recognizes the diverse vocabulary level of
students. The lessons are arranged to follow the standard sequence of the course. But the order
in which you read them can be changed to correspond with the textbook you are now using

SUMMARY OF LEARNING OUTCOMES:

 Upon completion of the module you should be able to:

LO1 Identify the parts and tools used in the assembly procedures; and

LO2 Exemplify the standard operating procedures in computer hardware assembly.

WHAT IS IT?

Read and understand computer hardware assembly procedures in installing and

configuring computer systems. Your understanding on these will help you deeply understand
the parts and tools needed as well as the steps in hardware assembly in Computer Systems
Servicing.

TECHNICAL TERMS

• Processor (CPU) - A processor (CPU) is the logic circuitry that responds to and processes
the basic instructions that drive a computer.
• Optical Drive - the piece of hardware that lets a device read and interact with a disc.
• Memory (RAM) - RAM gives applications a place to store and access data on a short-term
basis.
• Motherboard - is a computer's central communications backbone connectivity point,
through which all components and external peripherals connect I/O bezel plate (usually
included with the motherboard).
• SATA cables - are used to connect devices in computer cable assemblies, such as
storage devices.
• Processor fan - It helps pull and blow hot air off the processor, helping keep it cooler.
• Hard drive - is the hardware component that stores all of your digital content.
• Power supply - is the unrecognized champion of functionality and usage for your PC.

WHAT TO KNOW?

Step 1: Preparation of Parts and Tools

Ensure that all parts and tools that will be used in the assembly procedure are in your possession.
Use the proper tools in order to avoid damage to your equipment and physical injury.
You will need:
• Processor (CPU)
• Optical Drive (DVD-RW and SATA capable)
• Memory (RAM)
• Motherboard (SATA capable)
• I/O bezel plate (usually included with the motherboard)
• SATA cables
• Processor fan
• Hard drive (SATA capable)
• Power supply
• Computer case
• Screws and standoffs
• Screwdriver (for slotted and Phillips head screw)
• Needle-nosed pliers
• Adjustable wrench
• Wire cutters and strippers
• Utility knife
• Small flashlight
• Small container to hold screws
• Heat sink compound
• Grounding strap
Note: Double-check all the parts to verify compatibility with one another. Refer to the
specifications provided by the manufacturer. The tools that will be used in each installation may
vary depending on your equipment.

Step 2: Preparing the Case for Assembly

• Remove the side panels of the case by sliding them back after
removing the attached screws.

• Remove the packaging materials and other PC parts inserted into the
case, such as USB ports and cables. You may need to label these parts
yourself before the assembly procedure if they have not yet been
labelled by the manufacturer. Refer to the manufacturer’s
documentation for details.

• Open the drive bays by removing the covers of the optical drives.
Press the retaining tabs to do this.

Step 3: Ground Yourself

• Wear the grounding strap on your wrist and connect the other end
to a metal clasp or a small hole on the metal part of the computer case.
Do this to avoid damaging the components with static electricity
coming from your body

Step 4: Mount the Motherboard

• Mount the I/O bezel plate into the opening at the back of the case by
pushing it from the inside.
• Mount the standoffs in the case. You can find the standoff screw in the
mounted holes of the motherboard. Make sure to know the exact location
of the screw hole on the motherboard.

• Place the motherboard into the case in alignment with the I/O bezel. The
motherboard must touch only the screws and the standoffs to avoid
damage.

• Attach the screws properly.

Note: Do not tighten the screws until all of them have been placed and the board is lined up with
the bezel.

Step 5: Mount the Optical Drive

• Insert the optical drive into the drive bay until the screw holes are
parallel with one another and the front of the drive is level with the front
of the case.
• Attach the screws.
Step 6: Mount the Hard Drive
• Look for the drive bay to mount the drive in. The location is usually
indicated in the manufacturer’s documentation.
• Insert the drive into the designated slot and make sure the side screw
holes are aligned with the case holes.
• Mount and tighten the screw.
Step 7: Mount the CPU
• The CPU is mounted on the motherboard in the designated socket. Find
the edge that is marked pin 1 on the CPU. It is usually marked with an
arrow. For specific information regarding your processor, check the
manufacturer’s documentation.
• Lift the small metal rod beside the socket.
• Attach the CPU on the socket, making sure that the corresponding
marking on the socket is aligned with the one on the CPU.
• Push the rod back down against the CPU to
secure it in place.

Step 8: Mount the RAM

• Insert the RAM board intended for the memory socket. Make sure that
the placement of the notch in the board is properly established. If not,
turn it around 1800.
• Press both ends of the board to insert it securely into the socket.
Ensure that the tabs lock is in place.
Note: Always remember that improper alignment of the board when being pushed or pressed
can cause damage or harm to both the RAM board and motherboard.

Step 9: Mount the CPU Fan

• Apply thermal compound onto the CPU by following the directions
included in the compound packaging.
• Place the fan on the CPU with the mounting tabs aligned with one
another.
• Lock the fan in place by pulling down the locking rod.
• Attach the power connector of the fan assembly to the motherboard. You may refer to the
manual to know the proper placement.
Note: If you do not apply the thermal compound, the CPU will heat up Faster and may potentially
damage the motherboard.
Step 10: Mount the Case Fan
• Hold the fan to the mounting pad and align it with the mounting holes
inside the case.
• Attach the screws from outside of the case and tighten them.

Step 11: Mount the Power Supply

• Line up the mounting holes in the power supply.
• Attach the screws and tighten them.

Step 12: Fasten the Cables

• The motherboard has two power connections as well as two connectors
intended for SATA devices or drives. The other connectors are in charge of
running the fans and other devices that are non-SATA.

• Data cables connect the drives and front panel devices to the motherboard.
Drives and front panel devices are connected to the motherboard by data
cables. Check the manual that comes with your motherboard to find out the
correct placement of these cables.
Step 13: Bundle up the Computer
• Once all the parts have been installed, re-attach the side panels onto
the case. Boot the computer to check if the CPU is running properly and
if each component had been installed properly. Software can be
installed onto your PC after confirming that installation was successful.
In case of any problems, refer to each component’s manual for specific
troubleshooting information.

ACTIVITY 1:

Let us check what you have learned in the lesson about the procedures in computer hardware
assembly.
True or False
Directions: Write T if the statement is correct and F if the statement is incorrect.
1. Prior hardware assembly, secure first the necessary parts and tools needed in the
procedures.
2. Double-check the parts is recommended to verify the compatibility with one another.
3. Tighten the screws even the board is not lined up with the bezel.
4. No need of wearing the grounding strap to discharge the static electricity, proceed
immediately in the assembly procedures.
5. Thermal compound application is recommended to aid CPU dissipates heat.
ACTIVITY 2

Directions: List the tools, materials, equipment in hardware assembly. List down top ten (5)
then write its uses in the opposite columns.

Computer Hardware Assembly

List of Tools/Materials/Equipment Uses

ACTIVITY 3

Directions: Steps in computer hardware assembly (items 1-13). Write the correct answer on the
space provided before the number. (e.g. Step 1)
_____ 1. All the parts have been installed and ready to boot the computer.
_____ 2. Data cables connect the drives and front panel devices to the motherboard.
_____ 3. Line up the mounting holes in the power supply and case then attach the screws and
tighten them.
_____ 4. Hold the fan to the mounting pad and align it with the mounting hole inside the case.
_____ 5. Place the fan on the CPU with the mounting tabs aligned with one another.
_____ 6. Ensure that all parts and tools that will be used in the assembly procedures.
_____ 7. Remove the side panels of the case by sliding them back after removing the attached
screws.
_____ 8. Wear anti-static wrist strap to discharge static electricity.
_____ 9. Place the motherboard into the case in alignment with the I/O bezel.
_____ 10. Insert the optical drive into the drive bay until the screw holes are parallel with one
another.
_____ 11. Insert the RAM board intended for the memory socket.
_____ 12. The CPU is mounted on the motherboard in the designated socket.
_____ 13. Insert the drive into the designated slot and make sure the side screw holes are
aligned with the case holes.