10

Technology and Livelihood

Education
Computer System Servicing (CSS)
Quarter 4 – Module 1
Conduct Testing and Documentation

AIRs - LM
Technology and Livelihood Education – Computer Systems Servicing 10
Quarter 4 - Module 1: Conduct Testing and Documentation
First Edition, 2020

Copyright © 2020
La Union Schools Division
Region I

All rights reserved. No part of this module may be reproduced in any

form without written permission from the copyright owners.

Development Team of the Module

Author: Ronald A. Rigua, MT – I

Editor: SDO La Union, Learning Resource Quality Assurance Team

Illustrator: Ernesto F. Ramos Jr., P II

Management Team:

Atty. Donato D. Balderas, Jr.

Schools Division Superintendent

Vivian Luz S. Pagatpatan, Ph.D

Assistant Schools Division Superintendent

German E. Flora, Ph.D, CID Chief

Virgilio C. Boado, Ph.D, EPS in Charge of LRMS

Melba N. Paz, EPS in Charge of EPP/TLE/TVL

Michael Jason D. Morales, PDO II

Claire P. Toluyen, Librarian II

 Target

You were introduced with all the necessary knowledge and skills on
installation of computer devices and application software. Now, after executing the
correct procedures I am sure that installation is a very easy task for you.
In the next phase of your learning, you will now focus in conducting test on
the installed computer components.
After going through this module, you are expected to:

1. recall OHS policies and procedures in conducting tests;

2. identify the different ways in conducting tests to computers; and
3. test devices, systems and/or installation to determine its conformity
with the requirements.

The learning objective is anchored from the Most Essential Learning

Competency: Conduct testing and documentation (TLE_IACSS9-12ICCS-IIIf-j-32)

1
 Pre-Test

Direction: Read each statement carefully. Select and write the letter of the correct
answer on a separate sheet of paper.

1. What diagnostic tool tests the integrity of circuits and the quality of electricity in
computer components?
A. Voltmeter B. Multitester
C. Loopback adapter D. Toner probe
2. It is used to test the basic functionality of computer ports.
A. Voltmeter B. Multitester
C. Loopback adapter D. Toner probe
3. What disk management tool prepares a hard drive to store information?
A. Defrag B. Disk cleanup C. Fdisk D. Format
4. What disk management tool optimizes space on a hard drive to allow faster
access to programs and data?
A. Defrag B. Disk cleanup C. Fdisk D. Format
5. It clears space on a hard drive by searching for files that can be safely deleted.
A. Defrag B. Disk cleanup C. Fdisk D. Format
6. It is a set of steps to guide you through what needs to be done to thoroughly test
the installation.
A. Test line B. Test procedure C. Test set D. Test set-up
7. What BIOS uses beep codes in a series of beeps separated by a pause?
A. AMI B. Award C. HP D. Phoenix
8. It is the process of determining the ability of a computer, network, program or
device to maintain a certain level of effectiveness under unfavorable conditions.
A. Durability test B. POST C. Reliability test D. Stress test
9. It is the last step for a test procedure.
A. Checking specification. B. Checking specification.
C. Gathering test information. D. Validating the test information.
10. Which of the following is NOT included as part of the procedures in a test
procedure?
A. Checking specification.
B. Gathering test information.
C. Responding to test information.
D. Buying the needed items to test information.
11. Which of the following statement is an example of INTERNAL visual inspection?
A. Verify that network cables (if present) are properly attached.
B. Verify that the keyboard and mouse interface cables are firmly attached to
the proper connectors on the back of the computer.
C. Verify that all power cables are properly connected to the computer, the
monitor and peripherals, and their power sources.
D. Verify that the chips, expansion cards, and SEC cartridge and heat sink
assembly or assemblies are fully seated in their sockets or connectors.

2
12. Which statement is CORRECT about POST?
A. POST has 10 basic stages.
B. POST stands for Power-Off Self Test.
C. POST results can either be in a form of beeps or messages.
D. POST is conducted everytime you shutdown the computer.
13. How would you interpret 1 short beep after booting up your computer?
A. Replace the RAM.
B. Shutdown the computer immediately.
C. Apply thermal gel between the CPU and heatsink.
D. Do nothing. There is no problem with the components.
14. Rodel has been problematic with his desktop computer for the past weeks.
From time to time, his computer shutdown itself leaving him frustrated with his
school works and research. After checking that all cables and connections are okay,
he will now look into the internal components of his desktop. If you are to advise
Rodel, what would be the first procedure for him to do?
A. Wear cloth gloves to avoid getting cuts.
B. Cool down the unit first before opening it.
C. Remove both side panels of the system unit.
D. Shutdown computer and unplug the power cable from the main outlet.
15. Jessica has been using an old laptop she got from her sister. It was already 7
years from the date it was originally bought for her sister’s college studies. Yet, it
can still manage to perform its basic functions to accomplish her tasks for her
school works. During their lesson on CSS, they were tasked to stress test their
devices using Passmark BurnIn Test. After running the program, the result for her
device showed that most of the components tested failed. What would be the BEST
action for Jessica to do next?
A. Consider buying a new laptop.
B. Clean her computer thoroughly.
C. Replace all failed components with new ones.
D. Reinstall all components and update their drivers.

3
 Jumpstart

ACTIVITY 1: EXTERNAL OR INTERNAL?

Direction: Write EVI if the statement is an example of external visual inspection or
IVI for internal visual inspection of computer components on the space provided
before each item.
______1. Checking the missing screws on the heatsink.
______2. Verifying that the power cable is connected at the power outlet.
______3. Checking the pins of the RAM.
______4. Verifying that the thermal gel has not yet dried out.
______5. Checking if the monitor power button is switched on.
______6. Checking if the power cable of the SDD is connected.
______7. Checking the bent pins of the keyboard cable.
______8. Discarding the rat – bitten VGA cable.
______9. Checking if the all the keys in the keyboard are working.
______10. Checking if the videocard is fully seated at its correct slot.

4
 Discover
TESTING INSTALLED EQUIPMENT / DEVICES (COMPONENTS)

As computer technician you will need a good understanding of the health

and safety regulations from early on in your career, so that you understand the
good practices demanded by law. In particular, you need to:

✓ report any accidents

✓ take reasonable care of your own health and safety when moving heavy
components

✓ not cause any electrical hazards

✓ make sure that workstations meet safety requirements.

You need to adhere to health and safety regulations as they will help to
protect you and others and will avoid any unnecessary legal action for reckless and
unsafe working practices. If you identify any health and safety problems, you
should tell your line manager or the health and safety representative immediately.
The most basic test is to switch the system on to check it starts without
errors. ICT professionals are also likely to use tools and utilities to check that all is
well with the system after an installation.
THE USE OF DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS IN TESTING INSTALLED HARDWARE
COMPONENTS AND OTHER PERIPHERALS
Diagnostic tools are used to test and diagnose equipment. Diagnostic tools
include the following:

➢ Digital multimeter is a device that can take many types of measurements. It

tests the integrity of circuits and the quality of electricity in computer components.
A digital multimeter displays the information on an LCD or LED.

https://ph.element14.com/productimages/large/en_GB/IN07444-40.jpg

5
➢ A loopback adapter, also called a loopback plug, tests the basic functionality of
computer ports. The adapter is specific to the port that you want to test.

http://cejudoangelo.weebly.com/uploads/1/2/6/7/12679902/2960467.jpg
➢ The toner probe, is a two-part tool. The toner part is connected to a cable at one
end using specific adapters, such as an RJ-45, coaxial, or metal clips. The toner
generates a tone that travels the length of the cable. The probe part traces the cable.
When the probe is in near proximity to the cable to which the toner is attached, the
tone can be heard through a speaker in the probe.

https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61CxxIq%2B%2BKL._SL1000_.jpg

SOFTWARE TOOLS
Like hardware tools, there are a variety of software tools that can be used to
help technicians pinpoint and troubleshoot problems. Many of these tools are free
and several come with the Windows operating system.
Disk Management Tools
Software tools help diagnose computer and network problems and determine
which computer device is not functioning correctly. A technician must be able to
use a range of software tools to diagnose problems, maintain hardware, and protect
the data stored on a computer.
You must be able to identify which software to use in different situations.
Disk management tools help detect and correct disk errors, prepare a disk for data
storage, and remove unwanted files.

6
 The following are some disk management tools:

➢ FDISK: A command-line tool that creates and deletes partitions on a hard drive.
The FDISK tool is not available in Windows XP, Vista, or 7. It has been replaced
with the Disk Management tool.
➢ Disk Management Tool: Initializes disks, creates partitions, and formats
partitions.
➢ Format: Prepares a hard drive to store information.
➢ ScanDisk or CHKDSK: Checks the integrity of files and folders on a hard
drive by scanning the file system. These tools might also check the disk surface for
physical errors.
➢ Defrag: Optimizes space on a hard drive to allow faster access to programs
and data.
➢ Disk Cleanup: Clears space on a hard drive by searching for files that can be
safely deleted.
➢ System File Checker (SFC): A command-line tool that scans the operating
system critical files and replaces files that are corrupted.

Use the Windows 10 boot disk for troubleshooting and repairing corrupted
files. The Windows 10 boot disk repairs Windows system files, restores damaged or
lost files, and reinstalls the operating system.
TEST PROCEDURES
A test procedure is a set of steps to guide you through what needs to be
done to thoroughly test the installation. It is designed to help you work more
effectively and to make sure you test everything that needs testing.
Test procedures are created in-house and could include these steps:
1. Gathering test information. The first step is to run the tests required by the
procedure and find out what happens. You should record all the results of your
tests in a log so that you know which pass and which fail, thereby requiring further
action.
2. Validating the test information. The next step is to check the data you
gathered from the tests to make sure it is correct. This is usually done by running
the tests again.
3. Responding to test information. This step is important because you need to be
able to recognize when a test shows problems or is successful. For example, if ping
is used to test a network connection then ‘Request timed out’ shows the test was
not successful.
4. Checking specification. The final step is an important end to testing. You need
to check the specification for the installation to make sure that it has been met. For
example, if a user requested an upgrade to make their display run at 1920 x 1200,
then the ICT professional should check that the graphics card and screen can do
this.

7
 EXTERNAL VISUAL INSPECTION
The external visual inspection consists of a quick inspection of the exterior
of the computer, the monitor, the keyboard, any peripherals, and cables. While
performing the visual inspection, make any necessary corrections. To perform the
external visual inspection, perform the following steps:
1. Turn off the computer, the monitor, and all peripherals.
2. Verify that all power cables are properly connected to the computer, the monitor
and peripherals, and their power sources.
3. Verify that the keyboard and mouse interface cables are firmly attached to the
proper connectors on the back of the computer.

➢ For a PS/2-compatible mouse, the keyboard and mouse interface cable

connectors are identical except for their labels.

➢ For a serial mouse, the mouse interface cable must be firmly attached to one of
the serial port connectors, and its captive screws must be secure enough to ensure
a firm connection.
4. Verify that network cables (if present) are properly attached.
5. Verify that any devices attached to the serial and parallel port connectors are
properly connected.

➢ Each of the serial and parallel port interface cables must be firmly attached to
an appropriate connector on the back of the computer as well as to the interface
connector on the device. The captive screws that secure these connectors at each
end of the interface cable must be secure enough to ensure a firm connection.
6. Verify that the video interface cable is firmly attached to the video connector on
the back panel or to a video expansion card, and also to the connector on the back
of the monitor. For proper connection of the video monitor, see the documentation
for the monitor.
7. Inspect all external monitor controls for any obvious damage or improper
settings. For proper settings of the video monitor controls, see the documentation
for the monitor.
8. Inspect the keyboard to ensure that no keys are sticking. If one or more keys are
sticking, it may be necessary to replace the keyboard.
9. Inspect the exterior of the computer, including all controls and indicators, and
all user-accessible data storage devices for any signs of physical damage. Does the
inspection reveal any problems?
Yes. Proceed to the appropriate procedure in "Removing and Replacing Parts."
No. Proceed to "Observing the Boot Routine."

8
 OBSERVING THE BOOT ROUTINE
After you have performed an external visual inspection as described in the
previous section, you should boot the system and, while the boot routine is
running, observe the system for any indications of problems.
NOTE: Most of the steps in this procedure require observation of system
functions and indications, some of which can occur simultaneously. It may be
necessary to reboot the system several times to complete all of these steps.
To observe problem indications during the boot routine, perform the
following steps:
1. If the system is off, turn on all peripherals and the computer.
2. Check the power supply fan.
Does the fan run normally?
o Yes. Proceed to step 3.
o No. Troubleshoot the system power supply.
3. Watch the <Num Lock>, <Caps Lock>, and <Scroll Lock> indicators on the
upper-right corner of the keyboard. After all three indicators flash momentarily,
and following a long pause (approximately 30 seconds), the Num Lock indicator
should light up and remain on (unless the Num Lock option is set to Off in the
System Setup program). Do these indicators flash on and off within approximately
10 seconds after the boot routine starts?
o Yes. Proceed to step 4.
o No. Troubleshoot the system power supply. If the troubleshooting
procedure indicates that the system power supply is operational,
troubleshoot the memory.
4. During the boot routine, observe the system for any of the following indications:
o Beep codes — A beep code is a series of beeps that indicates an error
condition.
o System error messages — these messages can indicate problems or
provide status information.
o Diskette-drive and hard-disk drive access indicators — These
indicators light up in response to data being transferred to or from the drives.
If either of these indicators fails to light up during the boot routine,
troubleshoot the diskette drive or hard-disk drive subsystem, as appropriate.
5. Observe the monitor screen for the Diagnostics menu.

9
 INTERNAL VISUAL INSPECTION
NOTICE: Before you proceed with the internal visual inspection described in
this section, ensure that the user has saved all open files and exited all open
application programs if possible.
A simple visual inspection of a computer’s interior hardware can often lead
to the source of a problem, such as a loose expansion card, cable connector, or
mounting screw. To perform the internal visual inspection, perform the following
steps:
1. Turn off the system, including any attached peripherals, and disconnect all the
AC power cables from electrical outlets.
CAUTION: Before beginning to work inside the computer, disconnect the power
supply from the power source and the power supply cables from the power supply.
2. Remove the computer’s right side cover.
CAUTION: The heat sink assembly can get extremely hot during system operations.
Be sure that it has had sufficient time to cool before touching it.
CAUTION: When handling the heat sink assembly, take care to avoid sharp edges
on the heat sink.
3. Verify that the chips, expansion cards, and SEC cartridge and heat sink
assembly or assemblies are fully seated in their sockets or connectors.
4. To ensure that the chips are fully seated in their sockets, press firmly on the top
of each chip.
5. Verify that all jumpers are set correctly.
6. Check all cable connectors inside the computer to verify that they are firmly
attached to their appropriate connectors.
7. Reinstall the computer cover.
8. Reconnect the computer and any attached peripherals to their power sources,
and turn them on.

10
 TESTING COMPUTER SYSTEM
Three Major Components of Computer System:
o Hardware
o Software
o Firmware
Test Your Hardware
Checking your computer hardware and its peripherals
1. Computer Monitor and its peripherals
o Monitor and interface cables
o Video card
o Monitor power cable
2. Keyboard and Mouse
o Keyboard connector
o Mouse Connector
3. I/O port and devices
o Connection between the I/O port and the peripheral device
o A faulty cable between the I/O port and the peripheral device
o A faulty peripheral device
o Incorrect settings in the System Setup program
o Incorrect settings in the system's configuration files
o Faulty I/O port logic on the system board
4. Power supply
o Power cord
o Fuse
Testing Your Software
Check the different software installed in the computer.
1. Operating system. Run live updates for your operating systems to get the
latest patches and protection for your OS. Run registry scanners to check
the OS registry configuration.
2. Application Software. Check for live updates.
3. Anti-virus software. Run anti-virus program. Check for virus signature
updates. Check for spyware updates.

11
Test Your Firmware
Firmware- is a combination of hardware and software integrated on a chip.
To test the firmware:
Check for the correct configuration can accomplish this by configuring the
BIOS in the computer.
Error Beep codes
When a PC is first switched on or reset it performs a special diagnostic test
called a POST (Power-On Self Test), to check all components in the PC, the POST
program sends out a signal to each device initializing each device's built-in self test
procedure.
The POST test is a two stage process:
1. First, it will check all the basic components including among other things the
system clock, the processor, RAM, the keyboard controller and the Video
2. After the video has been tested the BIOS will then indicate any errors
encountered by displaying either a numeric code or a text message on the screen.
When a device fails the first part of the POST, the BIOS will send a series of
beeps from the PC's speaker (internal) to inform the PC user that there is a problem
these beeps are coded allowing the user to diagnose the troublesome component.
When the POST has been completed successfully, the PC will make a short beep to
let the user know everything is as it should be.
Three (3) major brands of BIOS chip:
1. AWARD BIOS
2. Phoenix BIOS
3. AMI BIOS

12
13
PHOENIX BIOS ERROR BEEP CODES
Phoenix BIOS beep codes are a series of beeps separated by a pause, for
example: beep --- beep beep --- beep --- beep beep would be 1-2-1-2

14
 Generally, 1 short beep is a good indication that all the tested components
passed the POST and the computer will boot normally

15
 STRESS TESTING
Stress testing is the process of determining the ability of a computer,
network, program or device to maintain a certain level of effectiveness under
unfavorable conditions. It will check the behavior of a system, network, or
application under an immense load. It also checks whether the system can recover
while returning to the normal stage or not.
The main purpose of stress testing is to check the recoverability of the
system, program, device, or network.
While performing hardware stress testing, we need to monitor different
factors like temperature, etc and it varies according to the model design and
infrastructure. Coverage of stress testing, as well as the risk, should be considered
before it is performed.
If you are performing stress testing on the computer then the focus of stress
testing will be on two components, i.e. the CPU and memory.
CPU stress testing is performed to check the CPU’s performance after
running it at a full speed completely up to maximum temperature. When CPU
stress testing is performed, all the cores of the multi-core system will get used. CPU
will get tested with a compatible and justified workload.
GPU stress testing is performed to check its limits by utilizing its full
processing power. Stress testing a RAM is the first thing that you should perform if
you are facing any of the problems like bluescreen or system reboot.
Different tools use different techniques for checking the performance of the
system. For Example, some tools use a 3D scene or some use the prime numbers.

16
 Explore

Activity 1. Cut and Arrange

Directions: PassMark’s BurnInTest is a software tool that allows all the major
sub-systems of a computer to be simultaneously tested for reliability and stability.
Simply, the results will help you diagnose what hardware is needing attention
because of eminent failure. Study the illustrations and captions in using it to check
what computer hardware will pass or fail the stress test. Cut them each and
arrange them in order by pasting them on the next page. Do not forget to cut your
arranged procedures to be passed together with your answer sheets.

17
Locate and run the downloaded
installer.
Access
https://www.passmark.com/produc
ts/burnintest/ and click FREE
TRIAL.
The browser will detect your device’s
OS. Click the download link to
download installer.
18
Agree to the license agreement and
select folder to install the program.
Wait for the installation to complete
and click FINISH.
Add or deselect the components you
want to stress test by clicking the “+”
& “-” on each tile. Once all are
selected, you can now click “GO” to
start. Wait until all tests are
completed. You can save, copy or
print the results to verify the results.
STEPS IN CONDUCTING STRESS TEST USING PASSMARK’S BURNINTEST

Paste the first picture here Paste the first step here

Paste the second picture here Paste the second step here

Paste the third picture here Paste the third step here

19
Paste the fourth picture here Paste the fourth step here

Paste the fifth picture here Paste the fifth step here

Paste the sixth picture here Paste the sixth step here

20
 Deepen

PERFORMANCE ACTIVITY IN STRESS TESTING PC

COMPONENTS USING PASSMARK’S BURNINTEST

Direction: Perform the following activity.

I. Task: Stress test PC using Passmark’s BurnInTest
II. Procedures:
1. Prepare all the resources needed.
2. Follow the procedures in conducting stress test on PC components using
Passmark in the Explore activity.
3. Stress test the following components: CPU, 2D graphics, disk, audio, network,
RAM and battery (if applicable only). Take a screenshot of the results.
4. Interpret the results for each component in a separate sheet of paper.
5. Submit the screenshot/s with the result interpretation to your teacher via
available online platform or print it to be passed together with your other answer
sheets.

RUBRICS

CRITERIA Percentage Rating

Stress test results are submitted. 40%

Result interpretation is complete and

60%
comprehensive.

Total 100%

21
 Gauge

Post-Test
Direction: Read each statement carefully. Select and write the letter of the correct
answer on a separate sheet of paper.

1. What diagnostic tool tests the integrity of circuits and the quality of electricity in
computer components?
A. Voltmeter B. Multitester
C. Loopback adapter D. Toner probe
2. It is used to test the basic functionality of computer ports.
A. Voltmeter B. Multitester
C. Loopback adapter D. Toner probe
3. What disk management tool prepares a hard drive to store information?
A. Defrag B. Disk cleanup C. Fdisk D. Format
4. What disk management tool optimizes space on a hard drive to allow faster
access to programs and data?
A. Defrag B. Disk cleanup C. Fdisk D. Format
5. It clears space on a hard drive by searching for files that can be safely deleted.
A. Defrag B. Disk cleanup C. Fdisk D. Format
6. It is a set of steps to guide you through what needs to be done to thoroughly test
the installation.
A. Test line B. Test procedure C. Test set D. Test set-up
7. What BIOS uses beep codes in a series of beeps separated by a pause?
A. AMI B. Award C. HP D. Phoenix
8. It is the process of determining the ability of a computer, network, program or
device to maintain a certain level of effectiveness under unfavorable conditions.
A. Durability test B. POST C. Reliability test D. Stress test
9. It is the last step for a test procedure.
A. Checking specification. B. Checking specification.
C. Gathering test information. D. Validating the test information.
10. Which of the following is NOT included as part of the procedures in a test
procedure?
A. Checking specification.
B. Gathering test information.
C. Responding to test information.
D. Buying the needed items to test information.
11. Which of the following statement is an example of INTERNAL visual inspection?
A. Verify that network cables (if present) are properly attached.
B. Verify that the keyboard and mouse interface cables are firmly attached to
the proper connectors on the back of the computer.
C. Verify that all power cables are properly connected to the computer, the
monitor and peripherals, and their power sources.
D. Verify that the chips, expansion cards, and SEC cartridge and heat sink
assembly or assemblies are fully seated in their sockets or connectors.

22
12. Which statement is CORRECT about POST?
A. POST has 10 basic stages.
B. POST stands for Power-Off Self Test.
C. POST results can either be in a form of beeps or messages.
D. POST is conducted everytime you shutdown the computer.
13. How would you interpret 1 short beep after booting up your computer?
A. Replace the RAM.
B. Shutdown the computer immediately.
C. Apply thermal gel between the CPU and heatsink.
D. Do nothing. There is no problem with the components.
14. Rodel has been problematic with his desktop computer for the past weeks.
From time to time, his computer shutdown itself leaving him frustrated with his
school works and research. After checking that all cables and connections are okay,
he will now look into the internal components of his desktop. If you are to advise
Rodel, what would be the first procedure for him to do?
A. Wear cloth gloves to avoid getting cuts.
B. Cool down the unit first before opening it.
C. Remove both side panels of the system unit.
D. Shutdown computer and unplug the power cable from the main outlet.
15. Jessica has been using an old laptop she got from her sister. It was already 7
years from the date it was originally bought for her sister’s college studies. Yet, it
can still manage to perform its basic functions to accomplish her tasks for her
school works. During their lesson on CSS, they were tasked to stress test their
devices using Passmark BurnIn Test. After running the program, the result for her
device showed that most of the components tested failed. What would be the BEST
action for Jessica to do next?
A. Consider buying a new laptop.
B. Clean her computer thoroughly.
C. Replace all failed components with new ones.
D. Reinstall all components and update their drivers.

23
Answer Key

24
25
References
1. http://www.workcover.nsw.gov.au/OHS/default.htm
2. www.cengageasia.com
3. www.wikipedia.com
4. commons.wikimedia.org
5. https://searchsoftwarequality.techtarget.com/definition/stress-testing
6. https://www.softwaretestinghelp.com/computer-stress-test-software/
7. https://www.passmark.com/products/burnintest/
8. https://ph.element14.com/productimages/large/en_GB/IN07444-40.jpg
9. http://cejudoangelo.weebly.com/uploads/1/2/6/7/12679902/2960467.jpg
10.https://images-na.ssl-images.
amazon.com/images/I/61CxxIq%2B%2BKL._SL1000_.jpg

26