Information

and Communications
Technology
Computer Systems Servicing
INSTALLING AND CONFIGURING
COMPUTER SYSTEMS (ICCS)
Learning Activity Sheet 2
What This Module is About

This module contains information and suggested learning activities

on Computer Systems Servicing. It includes training materials and activities
for you to complete.
This module consists of learning outcomes:

LEARNING OUTCOME 1
ASSEMBLE COMPUTER HARDWARE

 Plan and prepare unit assembly to ensure OH&S

policies and procedures are followed in accordance
with systems requirements.

 Identify and obtain necessary materials to complete the

work in accordance with established procedures and
checked against systems requirements.

 Obtain tools, equipment and testing devices needed to

carry out the installation work in accordance with
established procedures and checked for correct
operation and safety.

 Assemble computer hardware is in accordance with

established procedures and systems requirements.

 Perform Basic-input-output-system (BIOS)

configuration in accordance with hardware
requirements.

Completion of this module will help you better understand the

succeeding module on Computer Systems Servicing. After completing this
module, submit your portfolio to your teacher for the checking of your
achievement of knowledge and skills requirement of this module.
How to Learn from this Module
To achieve the objectives cited above, you are to do the following:
• Take your time reading the lessons carefully.
• Follow the directions and/or instructions in the activities and exercises diligently.
• Answer all the given tests and exercises.

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QUARTER 1 WEEK 2

Lesson 1

Planning plays the most important role of achieving a successful task.

Your ability to plan properly will enable you to attain your target or purpose.
Many successful entrepreneurs have realized their success through proper
and careful planning. Likewise, aside from planning, you should also give
importance to preparation. Good preparation will boost your confidence
because it means that you are ready to do the task because you have
sufficient knowledge about it.

As a computer systems servicing student, you also need to familiarize

with the materials and tools involved in order to really attain the good result of
the task given and avoid lagging when performing the task you are doing.

The following are some factors to be considered when you plan and prepare for the tasks:

1. PLACE. See to it that the place for doing the task is conducive to work, well
ventilated, clean, and has good lighting. A space provided for freedom to move
is important. A place chosen will give you idea on what task is to be done.

2. WASTE DISPOSAL. Used wire or wire strips or other things that can’t be used
anymore must be disposed in proper storage bin or container.

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3. TOOLS/EQUIPMENT. Tools and equipment must match with the task to be done.
You should be careful enough to choose tools and equipment that are worthy of use.
They must be in good condition so that it can be easily utilized without damaging the
parts.

A tool is a handheld device that aids in accomplishing a task

Tools range from a traditional metal cutting part of a machine to an element of a

computer program that activates and controls a particular function.

Preparing for the task to be undertaken includes proper tool selection.

1. How do you select the best tool for the job? First, know and understand
in detail the scope of work to be accomplished, second, plan for the
scope considering the sequence of tasks.
2. Selecting the best tool for each task requires training in the proper use
of the tools, field experience in their safe use, and following the
manufacturer’s guidance and instructions for that specific tool.
3. When obtaining the tool all the associated tooling and consumable
parts, as recommended by the manufacturer, must be included.

In addition, related consumable parts must also be selected and used according to
their manufacturer’s instructions.

4. SAFETY. Always prioritize safety. Remember that accident is not an excusable

incident. It can be avoided. Always remember the motto “Safety first

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5. PROCEDURE/TASK. Identify what task to perform before identifying materials
and tools to use. The service procedure/task to employ will tell you the
corresponding tools and materials needed. Appropriate tools to use with the task will
enhance your ability to provide a competitive and efficient service.

ASSEMBLING / DISASSEMBLING CRIMPING

ACTIVITY 1

Direction: Identify which factor in planning and preparing for the tasks in Computer
Systems Servicing do each statement describes. Choose from the options in the box.
Write your answers on your answer sheet.

Place Safety Tools/Equipment

Waste Disposal Procedure/Task

_1. Task-related consumable parts are selected and used according to their
manufacturer’s instructions.
_2. Identify what task to perform before identifying materials and tools to use.
_3. Materials that can’t be used anymore must be disposed in the trash bin.
_4. Always be mindful of the safety precautions when working with computers.
_5. See to it that the place for doing the task is conducive to work, well-
ventilated, clean, and has good lighting.
_6. Tools must be in good condition so that it can be easily utilized without
damaging the parts.
_7. An ideal work space in working with computers is something where
freedom to move freely is provided.
_8. Tools and equipment must match with the task to be done.
_9. Using appropriate tools is important for a technician to provide a
competitive and efficient service.

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 _10. Before starting with your work, make yourself aware on the locations of
the fire extinguisher and fire exit.

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LESSON 2
THE MOTHERBOARD AND ITS PARTS

1. Motherboard - is also called the "System Board," it is the main printed circuit
board in an electronic device, which contains sockets or slots that accept
additional boards.

2. CPU socket - is a portion in the motherboard which holds the CPU (Central
Processing Unit) or simply the processor.

3. Memory(RAM) Slot - is the slot where you will insert the

memory module or memory card. Some motherboard comes
with two to four slots. Aside from the motherboard specification,
looking at the memory slots would help you to know which type
of memory card is compatible.

4. 24-Pin ATX Power Connector - is the portion where you can connect the power
supply unit (PSU) power connector. Motherboards come with different power supply
controller. Old motherboard needs AT power supply unit while new motherboard needs
ATX power supply.

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5. Northbridge Chip Set - handles the data-transfer
duties of memory, CPU, and AGP and to make the
most efficient use of available resources

6. Southbridge Chip Set - it provides support for a wide variety of devices with many
differing bus speeds and designs. Control over secondary buses such as USB, IDE,
PS/2, Ethernet is the Southbridge's main role.

7. CMOS or BIOS chip (Complementary Metal Oxide Semi-conductor) is also a chipset

which contains the BIOS (Basic Input Output System). The BIOS is the built-in software
that tells what a computer can do without accessing programs from a disk.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

One important thing to consider before executing a well-planned computer
installation is that one must be knowledgeable in the different tools and
equipment’s used in computer systems and networks. Furthermore, the idea on
how these tools and equipment’s are properly used is another important
consideration in installing computer systems.

Hardware Tools/Equipment’s and their Illustrations

Functions
Protective Eyewear
Enclose or protect the eye
area in order to prevent
particulates, infectious fluids,
or chemicals from striking the
eyes
Multi-tester or Multi-meter

A
multi-meter or a multi-tester, also
known as a VOM (Volt-Ohm meter), is an
electronic measuring instrument that

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 combines several measurement functions
in one unit

Pliers (Assorted)

Pliers is a hand tool used to hold objects firmly,

for bending, or physical compression.

Screwdriver

A screwdriver is a tool for driving

screws and often rotating other
machine elements with the mating drive
system

Soldering Gun

A soldering gun is
a tool for soldering metals using tin -
based solder to achieve a highly
conductive contact

Desoldering Tool
Desoldering tools are used for
removing the molten solder so that the
joint may be separated.

Allen Wrench

A hex key, Allen key, or Allen

wrench (also known by various other
synonyms) is a tool of hexagonal
cross-section used to drive bolts and
screws that have a
hexagonal socket in the head (internal
wrenching hexagon drive) 9
Flashlight
A flashlight (or torch in British
English) is a hand-held portable
electric-powered light source. Usually
the light source is a small
incandescent light bulb or light-
emitting diode (LED)

IC Insertion and Extraction Tool

Used for extracting and inserting BIOS

Chip

Mirror

In hardware servicing a mirror is used

for inspecting the peripherals

Tweezers

Tweezers are tools used for picking up

objects too small to be easily handled
with the human hands

Antistatic Wrist Strap

An antistatic wrist strap, ESD wrist

strap, or ground bracelet is an
antistatic device used to safely ground
a person working on very sensitive
electronic equipment, to prevent the
build-up of static electricity on their
body, which can
result in electrostatic discharge (ESD)

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 ACTIVITY 2

What is the importance of learning the different tools and equipment? Cite one
example.

LESSON 3
Computer Disassembly and Assembly
Personal Computer Disassembly Before starting computer disassembly, make sure you
have the tools you need and they're all close by and handy and be sure to have a container to
keep the screws in so you have them when you want to put things back together.

Step 1. Unplugging - The first thing you do is to

unplug every cable that is plugged in to your computer.
That includes the cables such as Power, USB, Mouse,
Keyboard, Internet, Ethernet, Modem, AM\FM Antenna,
Cable TV, etc. Just unplug all the cables for safety
purposes. Now that your computer is fully unplugged,
move your PC to a clean work space, preferably a
carpet. The carpet is better than tile, because screws and other small parts will roll around.

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 Step2. Opening the Outer Shell/Case-
First, unscrew the four screws at the back of the computer. On most computer cases, there will
be large knobs that you can unscrew by hand or by screw driver on the back-right side of the
computer. The left side has small screws because on that side you can't access much on the
inside.

Step 3. Removing the System Fan - First,

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

Step 4. Removing the

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

Step5. Power Supply - The first thing to do is

unplug every wire coming from the power supply. You must
disconnect the motherboard (very large connector/plug), CD/DVD
drive(s) power, internal hard drive power and portable hard drive
slot power.

Step 6. CD/ DVD Drive(s)- First,

unplug the ribbon from the back of the
drive. Once that is completed, pull on the tab securing the drive-in
place, then push it out from the inside.

Step7. Hard Drive - First, unplug

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

Step 8. Memory (RAM) - To remove the RAM, push

down on both tabs holding the RAM in place, which are
located at both ends of the RAM

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 Step 9. Motherboard
- The motherboard has seven screws holding it to the frame,
which are indicated by large white circles around them. Remove
them and then lift the motherboard out of the frame.

Step by Step Computer Assembly

Step 1. Prepare your workplace

1. Take Inventory: Before you start, take an inventory of your parts.

Do not begin assembling your computer if you don't have
everything you need. Begin the step-by-step process once you
are ready with everything you need.

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

3. Prepare Grounding Protection: Use an inexpensive

antistatic wrist strap. It is the perfect preventive measure if
you have no alternative to working on carpet. Remember,
wrist strap correctly (it does you no good at all if you do not
wear it!), and you are ready to proceed. a table top or bare
floor is always the best place to build your system. Make
sure you are wearing your antistatic

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

Step 3. Install the CPU

1. Use the unlocking mechanism to open the CPU socket which is

usually a lever. 2. Carefully line up the pins and place the chip in its
socket; it will fit only when oriented the proper way. An arrow or a
missing pin on one corner of the chip will show you how to line things
up. 3. Align Triangular CPU and socket key marks as shown in the
picture. Lower the lever to lock
the CPU into place.

Step 4. Install the CPU Heat Sink

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 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).

2. 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.

3. Plug the CPU fan's power connector into the proper connector on the motherboard.

Step 5. Install Memory (RAM Modules)

In order to install the memory modules, insert them into the

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

Step 6. Place the motherboard into the case

Some PC cases have a removable motherboard tray. If yours does, remove the screws holding it
in place and pull it out of the case

Step 7. Connect the Power Supply

Making the proper connections is crucial to successfully assembling your PC system.

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

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

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 As always, refer to your motherboard's manual for the exact locations.

3. Use your motherboard user manual and find the description about front-panel connectors
NOTE You are going to be doing work that requires attention to detail and can be quite
frustrating if you do not go into it with the right attitude.

4. Attach each of the tiny leads from the power and

reset switches, the hard disk activity lights, the PC
speaker, and any front-panel USB and FireWire
ports to the corresponding pin on your
motherboard. The needle-nose pliers are useful for
manipulating small pieces

Step 8. Install Graphics / Video Cards

1. Begin by removing the backplane cover from the AGP or PCI

Express X16 slot (the metal piece where the monitor connector will
emerge).

2. Install the graphics board in that slot,

and then secure the card with a screw.

Step 9. Install Internal Drives

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

mounting them in the case
2. Use the included screws to attach your drives to the rails or
cage, and slide them into the case
3. When the drives are installed, connect power and data cables to
each one.
Step 10. Install the Add- in Cards

1. For each add-in card, you must choose a free PCI slot. 2. Remove its
backplane cover to allow access from the rear of the case. 3. Carefully
position the card above the slot, and press down firmly to seat the card
4. Secure the card with a screw

CONGRATULATIONS! You already did the most of the activities. But after completing this.
This next step is one of the important task to do after disassemble and assemble of computer system to check if your
system is working.

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 ACTIVITY 3
Assembly and Disassembly Process Infographic
Objective: Identify the steps in computer assembly and disassembly
Procedure: List down the steps for Disassembly and Assembly of computer system
by following the template below.

• UNPLUGGING
STEP 1 • Power cord from the outlet

STEP 2

STEP3

LESSON 4
BASIC INPUT OUTPUT SYSTEM
BIOS an acronym for Basic Input/Output System and also known as the System BIOS, ROM BIOS
or PC BIOS) is firmware used to perform hardware initialization during the booting process (power-on
startup), and to provide runtime services for operating systems and programs. Every time you built a
computer from scratch or you disassemble and assemble it to fix an error, this part of the computer usually
is the last step in order for you to check if your PC is working. Having a broad understanding about BIOS is
a huge help for you as an aspiring computer technician. You can do many things to help fix many errors
by learning about BIOS.

What are the four main functions of a PC BIOS?

1. POST - Test the computer hardware and make sure no errors exist before loading the operating system.
Additional information on the POST is available on our POST and beep codes page.
2. Bootstrap Loader - Locate the operating system. If a capable operating system is located, the BIOS
will pass control to it.
3. BIOS drivers - Low-level drivers that give the computer basic operational control over your computer's
hardware.
4. BIOS setup or CMOS setup - Configuration program that allows you to configure hardware settings
including system settings such as computer passwords, time, and date.
How to enter the BIOS or CMOS setup?

Every computer provides a way to enter the BIOS or CMOS setup. This interface allows you to configure
the basic settings of your computer.

The details for your computer may be unique. If you're not sure, consult the owner's manual for your
computer, or for your motherboard if the computer is custom-built.

New computers

Computers manufactured in the last few years allow you to enter the BIOS setup using one of the five keys
shown below during the boot process.

F1, F2 *, F10 **, Del, Esc Note F1, F2, and F10 are all function keys on the top of the keyboard.

* If pressing F2 opens a diagnostics tool, your setup key is likely F10

** F10 is also used for the boot menu. If F10 opens a boot menu, your setup key is likely F2.
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Setup keys are to be pressed as the computer is booting up (turning on). Most users see a message
similar to the example upon startup. Some older computers may also display a flashing block to indicate
when to press the F1 or F2 keys. You may see Press <F2> to enter BIOS setup or any hot key that will
lead you to the BIOS.

Once you have successfully entered the CMOS setup, a screen

similar to the example appears. Your CMOS setup may look different,
depending on the manufacturer, but should still share a lot of the
same options and information.

How do I change and save changes in CMOS setup?

Once in CMOS setup, the method for changing the settings often
depends on the BIOS manufacturer. You may use the arrow keys
along with the Enter key to select categories and change their values. Some manufacturers may have you
press the Page up and Page down keys to change the values.

ACTIVITY 4

1. What are the four main functions of a PC BIOS?

2. What keys will you press to enter BIOS?

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