11

Computer Systems
Servicing NC II
Quarter 1
Module 2: Computer Assembly
Procedures

Source: Luke, HoddeBlack Computer Tower on Brown Wooden

Table, Free Royalty
www. https://unsplash.com/

1
Computer Systems Servicing NC II
Quarter 1, Module 2
Computer Assembly Procedures

Republic Act 8293, section 176 states that: No copyright shall subsist in any work of the
Government of the Philippines. However, prior approval of the government agency or office wherein
the work is created shall be necessary for exploitation of such work for profit. Such agency or office
may, among other things, impose as a condition the payment of royalties.

Borrowed materials (i.e., songs, stories, poems, pictures, photos, brand names, trademarks, etc.)
included in this book are owned by their respective copyright holders. Every effort has been exerted
to locate and seek permission to use these materials from their respective copyright owners. The
publisher and authors do not represent nor claim ownership over them.

Regional Director: Gilbert T. Sadsad

Assistant Regional Director: Jessie L. Amin

Development Team of the Module

Writer: VELNORCA H. LAVIÑA

Editors: JOEL A. VARGAS / TOMASA FE P. MAÑAGO

Reviewers: DR. NIXON SA. OLFINDO, EPS / DARCY GUY Y. MAÑEBO, EPS

Illustrator: VELNORCA H. LAVIÑA

Layout Artist: VELNORCA H. LAVIÑA

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Computer Systems Servicing NC II - Grade 11
Quarter 1 Installing and Configuring Computer Systems (ICCS)
Module 2: Computer Assembly Procedures

Computer System assembly is the process of putting computer parts together in their
respective places. The Do’s an Don’ts must be considered in assembling a computer system. This
module will give you an explanation on how to assemble a computer system and the Do’s and don’ts
that must be observed while doing the assembly.

At the end of the lesson you are expected to:

 Define Computer assemble and disassemble. TLE_IACSS9-12ICCS-Ia-e-28

 Identify computer parts included in computer assemble/disassemble TLE_IACSS9-
12ICCS-Ia-e-28
 State the steps in assembling computer system TLE_IACSS9-12ICCS-Ia-e-28
 Value the importance of the Safety Precautions in assembling computer system
TLE_IACSS9-12ICCS-Ia-e-28

For your better understanding of the lesson, here is the list of words and their meanings
Read and understand them carefully

 Computer Peripherals

3
 A computer peripheral is any external device that provides input and output for the computer.
Keyboard, Scanner, Webcam are some of the examples.
 Computer disassemble
The process of breaking down a device into separate parts. A device may be disassembled to
help determine a problem, to replace a part, or take the parts and use them in another device
or sell them individually.

 Static Electricity
The buildup of an electric charge in a given location. Some materials, such as glass, hair and
some fabrics, give up electrons easily.

 Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) –

The term used to describe the transfer of static electricity from one object to another.

 Motherboard standoffs
Threaded brass standoffs (Jack Screw Standoffs) is used for attaching the motherboard to the
case chassis.

 I/O plate
A thin removable metal plate that protects the back of a computer and gives access to
Input/output devices like USB.

 Notches
An indentation or incision on an edge or surface. RAM sticks has notches also.

 Thermal Paste
A sticky paste placed directly onto the CPU or another IC for a more direct heat transfer
between the chip and the heat sink.

 Phillips screwdriver
A screwdriver has a head with pointed edges in the shape of a cross, which fit neatly into the
cross slots of a Phillips screw.

 Flat head screwdriver

A screwdriver with a wedge-shaped flat tip, used to tighten or loosen screws that have a
straight, linear notch in their heads.

 Anti-Static Wrist Strap

A piece of safety gear that helps to prevent the buildup of static electricity near sensitive
electronics or other projects where static charge could damage electronics or cause safety
issues.

 SATA
Stands for "Serial Advanced Technology Attachment," or "Serial ATA." It is an interface
used to connect ATA hard drives to a computer's motherboard.

 CPU Cooler
The device that keeps your CPU running at optimal temperatures.

4
 True of False. Read and understand the statement carefully. Write True if the statement is correct,
and False if it is not. Write your answers in your data notebook.

______________1. The process of assembling a computer system starts first by removing the side
cover of the system unit, attaching the motherboard, then the CPU and CPU fan.
______________2. The antistatic wrist strap prevents static electricity from building up. It is
attached to both arms of the person assembling the Computer system.

______________3. Butter knife can be used as replacement for screwdriver in case there are no
screwdriver available.
______________4. Grounding yourself before starting to assemble a computer system is a good
practice to prevent damage on computer parts due to the flow of electro static
discharge.
______________5. RAM stick or memory stick cannot be installed backwards because of its
notches.

ACTIVITY 1.

Directions: Look at the pictures below. Your task is to analyze the given picture and answer the
Guide questions. Write your answers in your data notebook.

Figure 1 Figure
Source: Luke, Hodde
Black Computer Tower on Brown Wooden Table, Free Royalty
www. https://unsplash.com/

Guide Questions:

5
 1. What do you see in Figure 1? What does computer assemble means to you?
2. Give three (3) instances where computer assemble is needed.
3. What can you notice wrong in figure 1 in terms of computer assemble?
4. How does computer assembling helps you as an ICT student?
5. Why does one needs to consider Do’s and don’ts when assembling computer system?

ACTIVITY 2.

As CSS student you will be exposed to different computer problems, therefore troubleshooting can be
one way to solve the problem. Opening the computer system, cleaning and/or replacing some parts are
sometimes an essential remedy.

In the first Activity you are given the chance to give your own opinion about what computer
assembly is, when it is needed and why does one has to consider the Do’s and Don’ts when
assembling.

At this point your knowledge about the parts of computer involved in computer assembly will be
tested.

Direction: In this activity your task is to identify the different computer parts involved in computer
assemble. Name them by writing your answer using the puzzle below. Write your
answers in your data notebook.

1 2 3

Source: Igor Schubin

Computer Power Supply wire Source: Mark Csabai Source: Brandon Blikenberg
accessories background, Free Cable for Hard Drive 2 Free RAM Stock Photo, Free
Free Royalty Stock Photo, Free Royalty Royalty
www. Pixbay.com www. freeimages.com www. freeimages.com

4 5 6

Source: Orgg, DVD Drive Source: PublicDomainPictures, Source: Powerbeephoto,

burner, Free Royalty Hard disk drive, Free Royalty Network LAN Card, Free Royalty
www. pixabay.com www. pixabay.com www. istockphoto.com

7 8

6
Source: Michael Source: Kerem yucel, 9 Source: Rey Smithers ,
Schwarzenberger, Computer Chip, Free Royalty Agp, Free Royalty
Cable computer SATA, Free www. freeimages.com www. freeimages.com
Royalty www. pixabay.com

7
 DOWN: 1-6 Across: 7-9
1 2

3 4 5 R

ACTIVITY 3.

In doing any process whether it be sewing a dress, sprouting a seed, editing a

video, creating ethernet cables, the rules, reminders, Tips, Do’s and don’ts and Safety Precautions are
always given to make sure the outcome of that process will become go smooth.

When doing computer assemble there are also Do’s and don’ts that one must observe in order to
ensure the safety of both the person doing the assembly and the parts of the computer. In the previous
activity you have already encountered the parts included in computer assembly. At this point, you are
going to list common mistakes and its effect a person commits when doing computer assemble.

Directions: In the 1st column, cite common errors/mistakes committed when doing computer
assembly. while in the next column write the effect of that error/ mistakes. Write your answers in your
data notebook.

COMMON MISTAKE EFFECT SOLUTION

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Let’s Explore!

8
Computer assembly procedure is a vital skill in Computer System Servicing. Let’s explore and learn
the basic tools needed in the assembly, the parts of computers involved, the Do’s and don’t’s and the
procedures in assembling a Computer System. Let’s Start!

STEP 1: PREPARE YOUR WORKPLACE.

1. Take Inventory: Before you start, take inventory of your parts. Make sure you have the following
components and tools with you.

COMPUTER PARTS:

 Motherboard  CD/DVD drive

 CPU  RAM
 Heatsink & CPU Fan  Case/Tower/Chassis
 Hard disk  Case Fan
 Power Supply

Lets’learn the basic tools that is vital when doing computer assembly.

TOOLS:

Screwdriver
Gather screwdrivers of different head-widths and dimensions, so that all types of components
can be easily attached to the motherboard.

1. Flat Head Screwdriver - a screwdriver with a wedge-

shaped flat tip, used to tighten or loosen screws that have a
Source: Sergio lanni,
Flat screw, Free Royalty
www. freeimages.com

9
straight, linear notch in their heads.

2. Phillips screwdriver - A Phillips screwdriver has a

Source: Gail Rau,
Screwdriver, Free Royalty
www. freeimages.com
head with pointed edges in the shape of a cross, which fit
neatly
into the cross slots of a Phillips screw.

10
 3. Needle-Nose Pliers - Rarely necessary but handy to have
for various situations. This can be used for loosening up
screws or bolts that are super-tight, picking up hard to reach
Source: Meghan Sanders,
Needle nose, Free Royalty
www. freeimages.com

11
 screws that you may drop within your case, removing chipped/broken screws and removing
motherboard standoffs.
Anti-Static Wrist Strap The
antistatic wrist strap prevents
static electricity from building up.
Static electricity can
electronically destroy many of the
delicate components inside the
computer. It should be worn any
time work is being done inside Source: Chon Buri, the
wrist strap set, ESD, Free Royalty
computer. The alligator clip www.freeimages.com
should be attached to a non-
painted metal surface on the computer case.

Flashlight (or Lamp)- depending on where you're

assemblying , your computer you may need an extra light
source so that you can cleary see what you are doing.

2. Make Space, Make Time. Building a PC take space so,

make sure you have plenty of working room and enoughtime to
proceed with minimal interruption. Work on a flat, stable tabletop surface or bare floor, where you
have room to lay out all of the items.

After you have gathered all

the necessary tools, prepared
your inventory and a nice and
tidy assembly area you are
now ready to grab you Disconnect all peripheral devices attached
computer to do the actual to the system unit and unplug all
assembly… sources of power before assembling.
But before that, consider this
safety reminders first before Never disassemble individual parts like
you proceed. your power supply or monitor.

Take care of sharp edges on your computer

case which can cause cuts or injury.

STEP 2: OPEN THE CASE

1. Open the computer case by removing the side panels. Find the screws that hold the side panels in
place and remove them using appropriate screwdriver.
2. The panel is removed by first sliding it back ; then 1
3. Lifting it away from the case .

12
PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a Computer –
Step By Step Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-build-a-
computer-step-by-step-infographic/

13
 3
PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a Computer –
Step By Step Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-build-a-
computer-step-by-step-infographic/
STEP 3: GROUND YOURSELF
Static electricity refers to the buildup of
electric charge on the surface of
objects. The static from your fingers
can damage sensitive computer parts
such as microprocessors and memory
chips.
1. Put the grounding strap on your wrist and connect the
other end to the computer case.
2. If your strap is not equipped with a clip to hook to the
case, find a place to wedge against the metal. This will
prevent any buildup of static electricity on your body from
damaging the computer components.
2 10,000 to 12,000 volts just walking
Anti-static wrist strap. (2017–2020).
[Image]. Https://Www.Gamingscan.Com.
https://www.gamingscan.com/how-to-use-
an-anti-static-wrist-strap/
PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a Computer –
Step By Step Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-build-a-
computer-step-by-step-infographic/
Did you know the average person
can carry up to 25,000 volts of static
energy at any given time?  So
discharging any built-up static energy
before you begin is important!
It takes as little as 5 to 10 volts to
cause damage inside your computer
and in order for you to even feel the
presence of static electricity, the
level needs to be above 1,500 volts.
You can accumulate an average of
across carpeting, rubbing a balloon
on dry fur (or hair) generates about
20,000 volts.
Anti-static wrist strap. (2017–2020).
[Image]. Https://Www.Gamingscan.Com.
https://www.gamingscan.com/how-to-use-
an-anti-static-wrist-strap/
14
STEP 4: MOUNT THE
MOTHERBOARD I/O
2
rea
1. Screw motherboard standoffs into the case. r
pla
The motherboard sits on top te
of the motherboard
3
standoffs which screw into
the computer case mounting
1
points.
Motherboard The top of the standoff has a
Standoff thread for the motherboard PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a Computer –
mounting screw to screw into. Step By Step Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-build-a-
computer-step-by-step-infographic/

2. Punch out rear I/O plate from the case (if existing) and replace it with motherboard I/O
3. Fasten the motherboard in place on top of the mounting standoffs.

Tip: Install the mounting standoffs in the case positions that match the screw mounting holes on your
motherboard.

STEP 5: MOUNT PROCESSOR

(CPU)
1. Locate the CPU socket holder on the motherboard.
2. Lift up the latch lever to release and center open the CPU
socket cover
3. Holding the CPU by its sides, line up any alignment
notches or the triangel on the corner of the CPU to the PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a Computer –
Step By Step Infographic
triangle marked on the motherboard to ensure the correct https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-build-a-
computer-step-by-step-infographic/
orientatiom.
4. Lower the CPU socket cover over the CPU and lower the latch closed again to secure the CPU
socket holder closed

Triangle
Triangle
alignment
alignment
marking
marking

Triangle
alignment
marking PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build
a Computer – Step By Step Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-
to-build-a-computer-step-by-step-
infographic/

15
 Tip: Don’t apply force to seat the CPU. Avoid touching or pressing down on the back of
the CPU with your fingers. Any residue from your hands can destroy the heat transfer surface for
the cooler which will be mounted next.

STEP 6: INSTALL CPU COOLER

1. If required, apply thermal paste to the back of CPU.

Thermal Paste is a very high heat conductive paste that is used between two objects usually a
heatsink and a CPU to get better heat conduction. It fills in all those microscopic imperfections
on the heatsink and CPU that can trap air in them and cause a loss in the heatsink’s performance.
Air is a very poor conductor of heat. Thermal Interface Materials can be up to a 100 times greater
conductor of heat than air.

16
 2. Seat CPU heatsink/cooler and fix in position.
3. Plug the power cable attached to the cooler fan into the motherboard

Tips to Applying Thermal Paste: What You

Should Know. (2020). [Photograph].
Https://Technosamigos.Com/Tips-to-Applying-
Thermal-Paste/.

PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a

Computer – Step By Step Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-build-a-
computer-step-by-step-infographic/

Remember: The goal of thermal paste is to fill in microscopic gaps on the surface of your CPU
and your heatsink. Do not put too much as it can damage other delicate parts of
the motherboard.

STEP 7: INSTALL POWER SUPPLY UNIT (PSU)

1. Mount the power supply and fasten with screw to the case mounting points.
2. Plug the largest cabling connector from the power supply cabling into the motherboard power
connector.

8-pin CPU
power
connector PSU PC Build Advisor (2020) How To
mounting Build a Computer – Step By Step
screw Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-
to-build-a-computer-step-by-step- 24-pin
infographic/ Motherboard
power connector

17
3. Plug the 8-pin cabling connector from the power supply cabling into the power connector.

Tip: Not all computers have a dedicated graphics card. If you have decided to use the on-board
graphics of your motherboard instead of installing dedicated graphic card, you can skip this section.

STEP 8: MOUNT THE RAM

1. Press to open the clips at both ends of the RAM mounting slots
2. Line the notch on the RAM stick with the mounting slot.
A notch is an indentation or an edge or surface. RAM
notches helps to determine how to seat it on RAM slots
by following its notches

PC Build Advisor (2020) How To PC Build Advisor (2020) How To

Build a Computer – Step By Step
Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-
to-build-a-computer-step-by-step-
3. Seatthe RAM and press it firmly
infographic/ down into the
The tabs should automatically fasten closed as
RAM down, securing the RAM in place.
Build a Computer – Step By Step
Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-
to-build-a-computer-step-by-step-
slot.infographic/
you press the

4. Install any other RAM sticks using the same process.

PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a

Computer – Step By Step Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-build-a-
computer-step-by-step-infographic/

Tip: Most motherboards will have multiple RAM mounting slots. If you are installing pairs of
RAM sticks, mount them in the same color slots on the motherboard.

STEP 9: INSTALLING GRAPHICS CARD/ VIDEO CARD

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1. Remove the expansion slot covers from the rear of your case where the graphics card will be
placed .

PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a

Computer – Step By Step Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-build-a-
computer-step-by-step-infographic/
PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a
Computer – Step By Step Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-build-a-
computer-step-by-step-infographic/

19
2. Line the graphics card into a PCI expansion
slot on the lower half of the motherboard and
press down formly to seat the card.

3. Put in the screws

to hold the
graphics card in
PC Build Advisor (2020) How To
place. Build a Computer – Step By Step
Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how
-to-build-a-computer-step-by-step-
infographic/
4. Plug in the
power connector
cables from your
power connector
supply into the
graphics card
power connector (if existing- not all graphics cards
require external power.)

STEP 10: MOUNT STORAGE DEVICES

Storage drives come in two main sizes: 3.5 form factor or 2.5 form factor.

Due to their smaller size, 2.5 may need an adapter plate to mount them within your PC
case. The exact mounting strategy for storage drives will vary from computer case to computer.

PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a
Computer – Step By Step Infographic Computer – Step By Step Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to- https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-
build-a-computer-step-by-step-infographic/ build-a-computer-step-by-step-infographic/

1. Mount storage drives in the

case drive bays. Fix the

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 drive in place with screw through the case frame into the case mounting holes located on the
storage drive.
2. Connect the drive to the motherboard using a SATA Cable.
3. Plug in power cabling to the storage drive.

PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a

Computer – Step By Step Infographic
SATA, in full serial advanced technology attachment, also called
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-
build-a-computer-step-by-step-infographic/
serial ATA, an interface for transferring data between a computer’s
central circuit board and storage devices. SATA was designed to
replace the long-standing PATA (parallel ATA) interface.

STEP 11: MOUNT OPTICAL DRIVE

1. Remove any fron panels from the computer case where the optical drive will
sit.
2. Mount optical drive in the case by fixing
with screws throught the case frmae into
the case mounting holes located on the
optical drive.
3. Connect the optical drive to the motherboard
using SATA cable.

4. Plug in power cabling from your computer supply to

the optical drive.

PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a

Computer – Step By Step Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-
build-a-computer-step-by-step-infographic/

21
STEP 12: CONNECT CASE FANS & FRONT PANEL
CONNECTORS
1. Mount any case fans within your case as required using the supplied screws or clips.
2. Connect any case fan power connectors to the multiple fan headers located at various places on the
motherboard.
3. Identify the cabling from the front panel ports of your PC.

These front panel connectors will need to be plugged into the motherboard so that
buttons and inputs/outputs (I/O) on your case front panel will work.
4. Connect any front panel audio connectors to the motherboard front audio header.
5. Connect any front panel USB connectors to the motherboard USB headers.
6. Connect front panel case connectors to the motherborad front panel I/O headers.
PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a
Computer – Step By Step Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-
build-a-computer-step-by-step-infographic/

What are front Panel Connectors?

The fpanel or front panel connector, the system panel connector or system panel header controls a
computer power button, reset button, and LED's. The System panel cables are two wire cables that are
color-coded to help identify where they connect to the motherboard system panel connector. The
black or white wire is the GND (ground) wire and the colored wire is the powered wire. The cables,

22
colors, and connections vary depending on the computer case and motherboard you have, however,
generally include the cables mentioned below.

Types of System Panel Cables

1. HDD LED (IDE LED) - The LED activity light for the
hard drive. This indicator is the light that flashes as
information is being written to and read from the hard
drive.
2. PLED (Power LED) - The LED power light, which
indicates when the computer is on, off, or in Standby.
3. PWRSW (Power SW) - Controls the power button that
allows you to turn on and off the computer.
4. Reset SW - Handles the reset button to restart the
Front computer.
Panel Header. (2011). [Image]. Https://Forums.Tomshardware.Com.
https://forums.tomshardware.com/threads/need-help-with-front-panel-
headers.409142/
5. Speaker - The internal speaker used to sound the beep noises you hear from your computer when it
is booting.

The system panel cables can be plugged in any direction. Except for the LED cables, the system panel
connector cables can be plugged in any direction. If the LED cables are plugged in backward, the
LED light will not work. Usually, with most modern motherboards, you can identify what cable goes
where by looking at the motherboard for a + and a - symbol. In figure 1, The colored wire (powered
wire) would connect to the + symbol and a white or black cable (ground) would connect to the -
symbol. Figure 2 is a guide on how to connect front panels, however different motherboards have
slightly different front panels connections too. Use the legend printed on the motherboard.
Figure 1 Connecting Front Panel Figure 1 Front Panel Connectors

Front Panel Header. (2011). [Image].

Https://Forums.Tomshardware.Com.
https://forums.tomshardware.com/thre
ads/need-help-with-front-panel-
Computer Hope. (2018, November 13). What is a System Panel headers.409142/
Connector?https://www.computerhope.com/jargon/s/spc.htm

Different computer cases have slightly different I/O connections, but generally both
connectors and motherboard headers are labelled, so use this as your advantage when
working out where to plug each cabling connector.

13: CONNECT PERIPHERALS

23
Plug the Keyboard, mouse, monitor, speakers and ethernet cable to their respective ports.
Use the picture below as guide on where to connect these peripherals.

PC Build Advisor (2020)

How To Build a
Computer – Step By Step
Infographic
https://www.pcbuildadvis
or.com/how-to-build-a-
computer-step-by-step-
infographic/

24
To ensure the safety of both the computer parts being assembled and the person doing the
assembling, here are the Safety Precautions that one must observed in doing computer assemble.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHEN WORKING

1. Always ground or discharge yourself before touching any part of the computer.
2. Do not work alone so that there is someone who can take care of you in case of
accident or emergency.
3. Be careful with the tools that may cause short circuit.
4. Always full the cable connector on the handle and not hold on the cable itself.
5. Use only rubber shoes when standing on the ground or in a concrete floor.
6. Make sure that the pins are properly aligned when connecting a cable connector.
7. Always power off and unplug the computer before working on it.
8. Take away any liquid such as mineral water or soft drinks near your working area
or near computers.
9. Contingency measures during workplace accidents, fire, and other emergencies are
recognized.
10. Personal protective equipment is correctly used in accordance with organization
procedures and practice.
11. Hazard/risks in the workplace and their corresponding indicators are identified to
minimize or eliminate risk to co‐workers, workplace, and environment.
12. Take necessary precautions to protect the component of the computer from
damaged caused by Electrostatic Discharge (ESD).
13. Hold the components by edges and do not touch the IC’s.
14. Read and follow instructions on the manual carefully.
15. Do not use excessive force if things do not quite slip into place.

25
 PRACTICE TASK 1

Imagine you are an owner of a computer shop. Several Computer

Systems Servicing students are deployed at your shop to complete with their work immersion period
as part of the curriculum.

Direction: Create a checklist on how they are going to assemble a computer system, this checklist
will serve as your guide in checking whether they had done the task correctly. You are going to state
the step by step procedure of assembling computer system by writing your answer in the boxes. Use
your data notebook to answer. Do not write your answer in this module.

Computer Assemble Checklist

1

A. _____________________________
B. _____________________________

1
0

11

12

13
26
27
 PRACTICE TASK 2

Direction: Arrange the steps in assembling the computer system by writing 1-11 inside the circle then
supply do’s and don’ts’s that is appropriate to that step by writing it in the next box. Write your
answer in your data notebook. Do now write your answers here.

STEPS DO’S/ DON’TS

Connect Case Fans & Front

Panel Connectors

Ground yourself

Install CPU cooler

Install power supply unit (PSU)

Mount the Ram

Mount the processor

Install Graphics card/Video Card

Open the case

Mount Optical Drive

Mount the motherboard

Mount Storage Devices

Prepare your workplace

Prepare your workplace

28
PRACTICE TASK 3

By doing the activities and by reading additional lessons above your knowledge about computer
assemble has been enhanced. In this practice task, you are going to analyze what is wrong in the
process of assembling the computer system.

Direction: Read and analyze the scenario below. Recall the procedures, precautionary measures and
the do’s and don’ts when doing computer assemble. Write the mistakes that John commits while
doing computer assemble. Write your answer in your data notebook.

SCENARIO:

 John bought separate parts for his System unit. It is not yet assembled, so he planned to
assemble it one Friday afternoon.
 He grabbed the case of the system unit and lay it on the floor where he is working. He
took the butter knife to remove the screw in the case.
 He mounted the CPU on the motherboard then attached the motherboard to the case.
 Next, he installed the CPU cooler or heatsink by mounting it on top of the processor.
 After that, He mounted the RAM by lining the notches into the RAM mounting slots.
 Next, is the Power supply unit, he screwed it in the upper part of the case and plugged the
8-pin CPU power connector of the Power supply to the Motherboard.
 Next to it, he removed the expansion slot covers from the rear of the case where the
graphics card is to be placed. He lined the graphics card in the PCI expansion slot, gently
pressed it down and attached the screw. John’s graphics card does not require external
power.

 Next, He mounted his Hard disk drive in its bays and screwed it. He connected the SATA
cable from hard drive to motherboard and power cable from the PSU to the Hard drive.
John does not have Optical drives so He proceeded with the connecting of case fan.
 He screwed the case fan to the multiple fan headers. He connected the USB, audio and
front panel connectors such as Power Switch, Reset Switch, Power Led, HDD Led and
speaker by following the label in his motherboard.
 Lastly, John connected his 3 peripherals available, the keyboard and mouse by plugging it
in USB slots and the Monitor by plugging the VGA of the monitor to the system unit.

29
Direction: Read the sentence carefully. Write True if the statement is correct and false if it is not.

True of False. Read and understand the statement carefully. Write True if the statement is correct,
and False if it is not. Write your answers in your data notebook.

_______________ 1. To properly install a hard drive, 2 connectors must be connected. SATA

connector from hard drive to motherboard and SATA connector from power
supply to hard drive.
_______________ 2. The process of assembling a computer system starts first by removing the side
cover of the system unit, attaching the motherboard, then the CPU and CPU
fan.
_______________ 3. The Thermal paste is to fill the gaps between the surface of CPU and heat sink.
Any residue from a person’s hand can damage other parts.
_______________ 4. The antistatic wrist strap prevents static electricity from building up. It is
attached to both arms of the person assembling the Computer system.
_______________ 5. To properly install Power supply unit an 8-pin CPU power connector must be
connected from PSU to motherboard and 24- pin Motherboard connector from
PSU to motherboard.
_______________ 6. Butter knife can be used as replacement for screwdriver in case there are no
screwdriver available.
_______________ 7. Grounding yourself before starting to assemble a computer system is a good
practice to prevent damage on computer parts due to the flow of electro static
discharge.
_______________ 8. After mounting the motherboard, the next step is to mount the CPU.
_______________ 9. RAM stick or memory stick cannot be installed backwards because of its
notches.
_______________ 10. In assembling a system unit the 13 steps cannot be done in another way. It
must be followed as is, otherwise our computer assemble will not be successful.

Imaging you tasked to introduce the steps of Computer assemble to grade 10 students. How are you
going to present the procedures? Create a flowchart showing the steps in assembling computer
system.

30
PRE- TEST:
1. False
2. False
3. False
4. True
5. True

ACTIVITY 1

1. A Computer system unit. Computer assembly means the cautiously putting together of computer
parts into their respective places.

2. A. When replacing internal part/ parts of the computer system.

B. when Cleaning the inside of a computer system or doing a troubleshooting.
C. When doing a computer assembly demonstration

3. No anti-static wrist strap or other device to prevent flowing of electrostatic discharge.

4. As an ICT student, having the knowledge on how to assemble computer system is an advantage. I
can apply that knowledge incase my Personal computer needs assembling; I can also offer
computer assembly to someone and eventually make money out of it or I can be a volunteer to
some Non-government organization that promotes computer Literacy.

5. Do’s and don’ts must be observed in assembling computer system to ensure that the person doing
the assembly is safe from all dangers that might happen, also to prevent the parts of computer from
damage.

ACTIVITY 2

DOWN

1. POWERSUPPLY
2. IDE
3. MEMORY
4. OPTICAL
DRIVE
5. HARDDRIVE
6. LANCARD

ACROSS

7. SATA
8. CPU 31
9. VIDEO CARD
Activity 3
COMMON EFFECT
MISTAKE
1.
Not preparing the area Possible harm like spilling of
suited for computer liquids, loss of screw and
assembly damaging internal parts due to
unclean and unorganized
workplace might occur.
2.
Not making themselves Parts and connectors might be
acquainted with the seated and plugged into wrong
correct location of parts positions, Some parts and
and connectors. connectors might not also be
connected properly due to
insufficient knowledge about
computer assembly.
3.
Not preparing inventory of Some computer parts might be
tools and computer parts missed to place inside the
computer, Proper tools might not
be used due to lack of inventory of
tools.
4.
Not wearing of anti-static Electro static discharge might be
wrist strap transferred from a person to some
of the computer’s delicate internal
parts which can cause permanent
damage to the parts.
5.
Applying excessive force Parts like RAM, CPU, graphics
to when mounting or card can be damaged when applied
removing parts. with excessive force during
removing or installation.
SOLUTION
Prepare a clean, organized
and well- lit area for
computer assembly
Ready and study more
about computer assembly.
Taking pictures of the
different positions of parts
and connectors might also
be a good help in doing
the assembly.
Make a list, Check
whether you have
everything you need
starting form the
necessary tools up to the
parts and connectors
needed.
Wear an anti-static wrist
strap before doing the
assembly.
Gentle remove each part
without applying too much
force. Study on how to
remove and install each
part.
32
1 Prepare the work place

A. Take inventory_of parts and tools_______

B. Make space, make time_______________

2 Open the case

3 Ground yourself

4 Mount the Motherboard

5 Mount the processor

6 Install CPU Cooler

7 Install Power Supply Unit (PSU)

8 Mount RAM

9 Installing Graphics card/ Video Card

1
Mount Storage Devices
0

11 Mount Optical Drive

12 Connect Case Fans & Front Panel Connectors

13 Connect Peripherals

33
PRACTICE TASK 2

STEPS SAFETY PRECAUTIONS / REMINDERS

1 Connect Case Fans & Front Make sure front panel connectors are plugged
2 Panel Connectors correctly.

3 Ground yourself Remove also Jewelries watch, necklace etc.

Apply enough amount of thermal paste if

6 Install CPU cooler necessary

Make sure 8 and 24- pins power connector

7 Install power supply unit (PSU)
are plugged

Follow the notches on how to seat the RAM.

8 Mount the Ram Do not apply excessive force

Mount the processor Gently mount the CPU only after the
5 motherboard is already mounted to the case

Install Graphics card/Video Card Remove slot covers first. Gently push the
9 videocard

2 Open the case Be careful with the edges of the case that can
cause cuts
1 Mount Optical Drive Ensure Both 2 SATA Connectors from PSU and
1 Motherboard are connected to the optical drives.

4 Mount the motherboard Ensure all screw are properly attached. Use
appropriate screwdriver

1 Mount Storage Devices SATA cable from motherboard and SATA power
0 cable from PSU must be both connected .

1 Prepare your workplace Make an inventory of tools and materials.

Prepare clean, well-organized workplace

1 Connect Peripherals Connect peripherals to their respective slots.

3 Connectors

34
Practice Task 3

Problem/Mistake/ Error Solution

1 Workplace not prepared, no inventory of
tools and parts.
2 Butter knife is used as screwdriver
3 Mounted CPU while motherboard is not
attached.
4 No thermal pasted applied
5 RAM is mounted instead of PSU
6. plugged the 8-pin CPU power connector
of the Power supply to the Motherboard.
24 pin motherboard connector is not
plugged.
Prepare a clean, well organized assembly area
and the tools to be used and parts to be
assembled.
Use a proper screwdriver to prevent damaging
of screws.
Attached motherboard to the case first, before
mounting the CPU
Applied thermal paste before mounting the
heat sink
Attach PSU first then next is the RAM
Plugged the 24-pin motherboard connector
also. 8-pin and 24- pin must be plugged both.

POST TEST

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

35
References:

TechTerms (2020, Sharpened productions) SATA Definition

Retrieved from: https://techterms.com/definition/sata

PC Build Advisor (2020) How To Build a Computer – Step By Step Infographic

https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-build-a-computer-step-by-step-infographic/

Thermal Paste and How To Use It

https://www.techpowerup.com/articles/overclocking/134

Computer Hope. (2018, November 13). What is a System Panel Connector? 

https://www.computerhope.com/jargon/s/spc.htm

How to build a computer. (2020). [Photograph].

https://www.pcbuildadvisor.com/how-to-build-a-computer-step-by-step-infographic/

Computer Hardware Servicing Module Grade 7 & 8

Learning Module
Department of Education

36