9

Computer Systems Servicing

NC II
Quarter 1 – Module 2: Week 2
Assemble Computer Hardware
TLE – Grade 9
Alternative Delivery Mode
Quarter 1 – Module 1: Assemble Computer Hardware
First Edition, 2020

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Development Team of the Module

Writer/s: Harlet Grace Basiao - Pondo
Editor/Reviewer: Edward E. Baña
Illustrator: Name
Layout Artist: Harlet Grace Basiao-Pondo
Management Team: Felisa B. Beriong, CESO VI
Corazon C. Tingson
Gaudencio C. Riego
Schubert Anthony C. Sialongo
Edward E. Baña
Phoenix Allanah Zandria Q. Salcedo - Tordesillas
Marian Rose B. Sarmiento

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Department of Education – Region VI – Schools Division of Antique

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 Computer Systems
Servicing NC II
Quarter 1 – Module 2: Week 2
Assemble Computer Hardware
Introductory Message
For the facilitator:

Welcome to the Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) Computer

Systems Servicing NC II 10 Alternative Delivery Mode (ADM) Module on
Assemble Computer Hardware

This module was collaboratively designed, developed and reviewed by

educators both from public and private institutions to assist you, the
teacher or facilitator in helping the learners meet the standards set by the K
to 12 Curriculum while overcoming their personal, social, and economic
constraints in schooling.

This learning resource hopes to engage the learners into guided and
independent learning activities at their own pace and time. Furthermore,
this also aims to help learners acquire the needed 21st century skills while
taking into consideration their needs and circumstances.

In addition to the material in the main text, you will also see this box in the
body of the module:

Notes to the Teacher

This contains helpful tips or strategies
that will help you in guiding the learners.

As a facilitator you are expected to orient the learners on how to use this
module. You also need to keep track of the learners' progress while allowing
them to manage their own learning. Furthermore, you are expected to
encourage and assist the learners as they do the tasks included in the
module.
For the learner:

Welcome to the Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) Computer Systems

Servicing NC II Alternative Delivery Mode (ADM) Assemble Computer Hardware.

This module was designed to provide you with fun and meaningful opportunities
for guided and independent learning at your own pace and time. You will be
enabled to process the contents of the learning resource while being an active
learner. Furthermore, the problem and home-based project will help for the
development of your skills and appreciate the significance of this course in your
personal development.

This module has the following parts and corresponding icons:

What I Need to Know This will give you an idea of the skills or
competencies you are expected to learn in
the module.

What’s In This is a brief drill or review to help you link

the current lesson with the previous one.

What is It This section provides a brief discussion of

the lesson. This aims to help you discover
and understand new concepts and skills.

What I Have Learned This includes questions or blank

sentence/paragraph to be filled in to
process what you learned from the lesson.

What I Can Do This section provides an activity which will

help you transfer your new knowledge or
skill into real life situations or concerns.

Assessment This is a task which aims to evaluate your

level of mastery in achieving the learning
competency.

Answer Key This contains answers to all activities in the

module.

At the end of this module you will also find:

References This is a list of all sources used in

developing this module.
The following are some reminders in using this module:

1. Use the module with care. Do not put unnecessary mark/s on any part of
the module. Use a separate sheet of paper in answering the exercises.
2. Don’t forget to answer What I Know before moving on to the other activities
included in the module.
3. Read the instruction carefully before doing each task.
4. Observe honesty and integrity in doing the tasks and checking your
answers.
5. Finish the task at hand before proceeding to the next.
6. Return this module to your teacher/facilitator once you are through with it.
If you encounter any difficulty in answering the tasks in this module, do not
hesitate to consult your teacher or facilitator. Always bear in mind that you are
not alone.

We hope that through this material, you will experience meaningful learning
and gain deep understanding of the relevant competencies. You can do it!

What I Need to Know

This module was designed and written with you in mind. It is here to help you
master the computer assembly procedures. The scope of this module permits it to
be used in many different learning situations. The language used allows you to
understand the concepts within your vocabulary level. 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 or learning resources you are now
using.

The module will be focused on:

Lesson 1: Computer Assembly Procedure

After going through this module, you are expected to:

1. Assemble computer hardware in accordance with established procedures.
2. Explain the proper procedures in assembling computer hardware.
3. Observe proper OH and S policies and procedures in assembling
computer hardware.
 What I Know

You will be challenged to dig deeper into your prior knowledge and previous
experiences about computer systems servicing. This Phase will guide you in
assessing yourself by answering questions and many other types of evaluation for
you to further explore the basics of computer systems servicing.

PRE-ASSESSMENT.

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
Systems Servicing. Read the skills carefully. Then write “Not much”, if you are not
really familiar, “A little” and “A lot”, if you are familiar with the skill. Feel free to
answer each skill. Write your answers in your notebook.

Skills in Computer Hardware Servicing Not A little A lot

Much

I can open a computer case.

I can connect the mouse.

I can connect the keyboard.

I can connect the monitor.

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 can apply occupational health and safety precautions

while working.
 What’s In

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

Before you proceed to the core of this module, challenge yourself first and dig deep into our
mind in order to answer the exercises prepared for you. Take time to answer it!

Activity 1. True or False.

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

1. A safe workplace is clean, organized and well-lit.

2. Setting up a computer takes up space that is accessible to layout all items.
3. Adapter cards must be compatible with the expansion slots on the
motherboard.
4. Wireless NIC is the interface between a computer and a display monitor.
5. RAM is a non-volatile memory that enhances computer performance.

Notes to the Teacher

This module contains different learning methodologies that will
help the teacher to understand the concept and gain necessary
information, knowledge and skills and that will ensure that the
learners will be guided and to have a basic understanding
regarding Personal Entrepreneurial Competencies that they may
apply in their daily life.

Next in line is the PC assembly, exert more effort and patience. Just follow
follow the steps by step procedures and illustrations below, and surely
Yo you can make it.
FIGHTING!
 What is It

Lesson 1 STEP BY STEP COMPUTER

ASSEMBLY

Assembling computers is a large part of a technician’s job. As a technician, you

must work in a logical, methodical manner when working with computer
components. At times, you might have to determine whether a component for a
customer’s computer needs to be upgraded or replaced. It is important that you
develop advanced skills in installation procedures, troubleshooting techniques, and
diagnostic methods.

In this module, topics will be introduced progressively for easy understanding. After
carefully answering the pre assessment exercises, reading all the lessons,
answering all the guide questions, skillfully performing all the activities, showing
evidences of learning and finally answering the summative test you will gain a
considerable knowledge and skills in assembling a computer as an essential to be
successful in computer systems servicing as one of the career options in ICT.

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

PREPARE THE WORKPLACE

1. TAKE INVENTORY.
Before you start, take an inventory of all the parts and tools needed. Do not
begin assembling your computer if you don’t have anything you need.

2. Make Space. Make Time.

Setting up a PC takes up space, so make sure to have a room with
adequate lighting, good ventilation, comfortable room temperature and
a workbench accessible from all sides where you can layout all of the
 items with minimal interruption on the working
process.
3. Prepare grounding protection.
Use antistatic wrist strap. It is the perfect
preventive measure if you have no alternative to
working on carpet. Make sure you wear it
correctly.

4. Have the drivers ready.

Prepare all necessary software needed.

Step 1: OPEN THE CASE

Computer cases are produced in a variety of form factors. Form factors refer to the
size and shape of the case.

There are different methods for opening cases. To learn how

to open a particular computer case, consult the user manual
or manufacturer’s website. Most computer cases are opened
in one of the following ways:

■ The computer case cover is removed as one piece.

■ The top and side panels of the case are removed.

■ The top of the case is removed before the side panels

can be removed.

■ A latch is pulled to release the side panel, which can

swing open.

Warning: Observe OH and S policies and procedures in handling the chassis, it may have sharp edges.
Handle with care to avoid injury.

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 below). Remember, you always want to safeguard your
components from potentially hazardous static electricity (wear your strap).
 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

The CPU, heat sink and fan assembly might be installed on the motherboard before
the motherboard is placed in the computer case. This allows for extra room to see
and maneuver components during installation.

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

Caution: When handling a CPU, do not touch the CPU contacts

at any time.
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).
 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 you are in doubt,
you can visit the manufacturer's website for more information.

Step 5. Install Memory (RAM Modules)

RAM may be installed in the motherboard before the motherboard is secured in the
computer case. Before installation, consult the motherboard documentation or
website of the motherboard manufacturer to ensure that the RAM is compatible
with the motherboard. RAM provides fast, temporary data storage for the CPU while
the computer is operating. RAM is volatile memory, which means that its contents
are lost when the computer is powered off. Typically, more RAM enhances
computer performance.

To install RAM, follow these steps:

Step 1. Align the notches on the RAM module to the

keys in the slot and press down until the side tabs
click into place.

Step 2. Make sure that the side tabs have locked

the RAM module.

Step 3. Visually check for exposed contacts.

Repeat these steps for additional RAM modules.

Step 6: Install the motherboard

To install the motherboard, we need parts that should have been included with
your purchased components:

1. I/O Bezel is a trim panel installed in the back of the case that surrounds
the interface ports on the motherboard. It should be included with the
motherboard. Figure below shows the contents of the motherboard box.
2. Standoffs are installed in the case screw holes to create a riser that
separates the case and motherboard. The screws install into the standoffs as
shown in Figure below. Screws and standoffs should be included with the
case, but it is a good idea to order these items just in case they aren’t
included.
 3. Install the I/O bezel plate into the opening in the
back of the case. It pushes in from the inside

4. Install standoffs in the case. The standoffs

screw into the motherboard mounting holes
shown in Figure below. Check the screw hole
locations on the motherboard for exact
placement.

5. Lower the motherboard into the case and

align with the I/O bezel.
6. Install the screws. Figure below shows the motherboard installed in the
case. It works best to leave the screws loose until all of them have been
started and the board is aligned with the bezel.

Step 7: INSTALL DRIVES

Drives that are installed in internal bays are called internal drives.
Step 7.1 Install Hard disk drive

A hard disk drive (HDD) is an example of an internal

drive. To install the HDD, follow these steps:

1. Position the HDD so that it aligns with the 3.5

inch (8.9 cm.) drive bay opening.

2. Insert the HDD into the drive bay so that the

screw holes in the drive line up with the screw holes in
the case.

3. Secure the HDD to the case using the proper

screws.
Step 7.2 Install the Optical Drive

Optical drives store data on removable media, such as CDs, DVDs, and Blu-rays.
Optical drives are installed in drive bays that are accessed from the front of the
case. The external bays allow access to the media without opening the case. A
Molex or SATA power connector provides the optical drive with power from the
power supply. A PATA or SATA data cable connects the optical drive to the
motherboard.

To install an optical drive, follow these steps:

1. Position the optical drive so that it aligns with the 5.25 inch (13.34 cm.)
drive bay opening.
2. Insert the optical drive into the drive bay so that the optical drive screw
holes align with the screw holes in the case.
3. Secure the optical drive to the case using the proper screws.

Step 8: Install the Adapter/Add in Cards

Types of Adapter Cards Adapter cards add functionality to a computer. Adapter

cards must be compatible with the expansion slots on the motherboard. You will
install three types of adapter cards:

■ PCIe x1 NIC

■ PCI wireless NIC

■ PCIe x16 video adapter card 3.1.4.2 

Step 8.1 Install a NIC

A NIC enables a computer to connect to a network. NICs use PCI and PCIe
expansion slots on the motherboard.

To install a NIC, follow these steps:

1. Align the NIC to the appropriate expansion slot on the motherboard.

2. Press down gently on the NIC until the card is fully seated.
3. Secure the NIC mounting bracket to the case with the appropriate screw.

Step 8.2 Install a Wireless NIC

A wireless NIC enables a computer to connect to a wireless network. Wireless NICs

use PCI and PCIe expansion slots on the motherboard. Some wireless NICs are
installed externally with a USB connector.

To install a wireless NIC, follow these steps:

1. Align the wireless NIC to the appropriate expansion slot on the

motherboard.
2. Press down gently on the wireless NIC until the card is fully seated.
3. Secure the wireless NIC mounting bracket to the case with the appropriate
screw.
Step 8.3 Install a Video Adapter Card

A video adapter card is the interface between a computer and a display monitor. An
upgraded video adapter card can provide improved graphic capabilities for games
and graphic programs. Video adapter cards use PCI, AGP, and PCIe expansion slots
on the motherboard.

To install a video adapter card, follow these steps:

1. Align the video adapter card to the appropriate expansion slot on the
motherboard. S
2. Press down gently on the video adapter card until the card is fully seated.
3. Secure the video adapter card mounting bracket to the case with the
appropriate screw.

Step 9: Install Power Supply (PSu)

A technician might be required to replace or install a power supply. Most power

supplies can only fit one way in the computer case. Three or four screws usually
attach the power supply to the case. Power supplies have fans that can vibrate and
loosen screws that are not properly tightened. When installing a power supply,
make sure that all the screws are used and tightened correctly.

To install a power supply, follow these steps:

1. Insert the power supply into the case.

2. Align the holes in the power supply with the holes in the case.
3. Secure the power supply to the case using the proper screws.

Step 10: Install the Internal Power Cables and Internal Data Cables

Motherboard Power Connections Motherboards require power to operate. The

Advanced Technology Extended (ATX) main power connector has either 20 or 24
pins. The power supply can also have a 4-pin 6-pin, or 8-pin Auxiliary (AUX) power
connector that connects to the motherboard. A 20-pin connector works in a
motherboard with a 24-pin socket.

To install a motherboard power connector, follow these steps:

1. Align the 20-pin ATX power connector to the socket on the motherboard
2. Gently press down on the connector until the clip clicks into place.
3. Align the 4-pin AUX power connector to the socket on the motherboard
4. Gently press down on the connector until the clip clicks into place.
Drives connect to the motherboard using data cables. The type of drive determines
the type of data cable to use.

PATA Data Cables

The PATA cable is sometimes called a ribbon cable because it is wide and flat. The
PATA cable can have either 40 or 80 conductors. A PATA cable usually has three
40-pin connectors. The end connector connects to the motherboard. The other two
connectors connect to drives. If multiple hard drives are installed, the master drive
connects to the end connector. The slave drive connects to the middle connector. A
stripe on the data cable indicates the location of pin 1. Plug the PATA cable into the
drive with the pin 1 indicator on the cable aligned to the pin 1 indicator on the
drive connector. The pin 1 indicator on the drive connector is usually closest to the
power connector on the drive. Many older motherboards have two PATA drive
controllers, providing support for a maximum of four PATA drives.

SATA Data Cables

The SATA data cable has a 7-pin connector. One end of the cable is connected to
the motherboard. The other end is connected to any drive that has a SATA data
connector. Many motherboards have four or more SATA drive controllers.

To install a PATA, or SATA data cable, follow these steps:

1. Plug the motherboard end of the PATA cable into the motherboard socket.
2. Plug the connector at the far end of the PATA cable into the optical drive.
3. Plug one end of the SATA cable into the motherboard socket.
4. Plug the other end of the SATA cable into the HDD.

Caution: Do not use a Molex connector and a SATA connector on the same drive at the same time.

Wrap-up. After following all the previous instructions in assembling the

computer hardware and components, the last thing to do is to reinstall the side
panels on the case. The computer is now ready to be turned on and to have
software loaded on it especially the Operating System and the required device
drivers for the peripherals and the different I/O devices.
 What’s More

Direction: Rearrange the following procedures in their proper order. Use numbers
to indicate their order of precedence.
____1. Connect the Power Supply

____2. Install Internal power and data cables

____3. Install Internal Drives

____4. Install Memory (RAM Modules)

____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

What I Have Learned

I hope you learned a lot from the above topic. After reading the
content of this module, answer the guide questions in your CSS
notebook. FIGHT-ing!

1. What is the essence of following the correct and proper procedures in

assembling the PC?
2. What will you do if you are having difficulty or having a hard time in
assembling a PC?
3. How will you know that you have successfully assembled and installed all
 the components of the entire PC?
4. What will you do in order to prevent yourself from accidents while you are
assembling the PC?
5. What will you do to have a safe and successful assembly of PC?
6. As a computer technician, why do you think skills is a crucial factor?

What I Can Do
Direction: Choose one from the task given depending on the availability of
materials/tools you have at home.
 Create a video presentation of the steps in assembling a PC. Embed a
background music.

 If you have desktop computer at home (working or not is ok) perform the
computer assembly. Have an evidence of your performance.

 Write down the steps of computer assembly in a short size bondpaper using
different font style and font size.

Assessment

Directions: Choose the letter that best answers to the question being ask or
statement describe. Write your answer on your CSS Activity Notebook.

1. It is sometimes called a ribbon cable because it is wide and flat.

a. PATA cable c. Power cable
b. SATA cable d. VGA cable
2. It provides fast, temporary data storage for the CPU while the computer is
operating.
a. RAM c. CPU
b. ROM d. Heatsink
3. The following are ways to open a computer case, EXCEPT
a. Carefully line up the pins and place the chip in its socket
b. The computer case cover is removed as one piece
c. The top and side panels of the case are removed
d. A latch is pulled to release the side panel, which can swing open
4. Computer cases come in a variety of sizes and configurations.
a. The statement is true
b. The statement is false
5. Which of the following statement is true in preparing the workplace before
performing the computer assembly?
a. Consult the motherboard documentation or manufacturer
b. Have a room with adequate lighting and accessible.
c. Consult the manual and manufacturers website
 d. See to it that standoffs are working.

Answer Key

Whats in What’s more Assessment

1. True 1. 10 1. A
2. True 2. 9 2. A
3. True 3. 7 3. A
4. False 4. 5 4. A
5. False 5. 8 5. B
6. 3
7. 4
8. 6
9. 2
10. 1

References
Technology and Livelihood Education -Grade 10 Learning Manual
IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software Course Booklet, Version 5
Computer System’s Servicing Portfolio by Ian Mars Acut
Citeonline.org
www.coursehero.com
Cisco Systems, Inc. 2006
www.ciscopress.com/articles
https://en.wikipedia.org