1.

Power-On Self-Test (POST):

 Occurs during computer boot-up.
 Performed by the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS).
 Checks main hardware components.
 Beep codes indicate hardware issues.
 Consult motherboard documentation for beep codes.
2. BIOS and CMOS:
 BIOS controls OS-hardware communication.
 POST, BIOS identifies drives, memory, ports, and settings.
 CMOS stores BIOS settings; powered by a battery.
 Incorrect time/date may signal CMOS battery issues.
3. UEFI:
 Unified Extensible Firmware Interface.
 Replaces legacy BIOS.
 Supports 32/64-bit, secure boot, and larger drives.
 Enhances security features.
4. BIOS/UEFI Security:
 Passwords, drive encryption, LoJack, Trusted Platform Module (TPM), secure boot.
 Protects BIOS settings from unauthorized access.
5. Update the Firmware:
 Modern BIOS is Electronically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
(EEPROM).
 Firmware updates enhance stability, compatibility, and performance.
 Flashing BIOS updates electronically.
6. Wattage and Voltage:
 Electricity basics: Voltage (V), Current (I), Resistance (R), Power (P).
 Voltage selector switch on power supply adjusts input voltage.
 Power fluctuation types: Blackout, Brownout, Noise, Spike, Power surge.
7. Power Protection Devices:
 Surge protector diverts extra voltage.
 Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) provides consistent power during outages.
 Standby power supply (SPS) has a backup battery.
8. CPU Architectures:
 RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) vs. CISC (Complex Instruction Set
Computer).
 Hyper-Threading (Intel) and HyperTransport (AMD) enhance CPU performance.
 CPU speed measured in MHz/GHz; FSB (Front Side Bus) influences data
processing.
9. Multicore Processors:
  Multiple processors on a single chip.
 Integrated or dedicated GPU on some CPUs.
 Multicore conserves power, improves performance.
10. CPU Cooling Mechanisms:
 Case fan increases airflow; heat sink dissipates CPU heat.
 Active cooling involves a fan on the heat sink.
 GPU and water cooling systems also dissipate heat.
11. RAID Concepts and Levels:
 RAID for data redundancy, performance, and fault tolerance.
 RAID levels (striping, mirroring, parity) provide different data handling.
12. Legacy Ports:
 Serial, Parallel, Game, PS/2, Audio ports for various connections.
13. Video and Graphic Ports:
 VGA, DVI, HDMI, DisplayPort for video connections.
 Evolution of USB standards (1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 3.2).
14. SATA, Twisted Pair, Coax, SCSI, and IDE Cables:
 Different cable types for connecting various components.
15. Monitor Characteristics:
 Described by screen size, resolution, brightness, contrast ratio, aspect ratio, etc.
 Different display standards (CGA, VGA, SVGA, HD, FHD, QHD, UHD).
16. Using Multiple Monitors:
 Increases visual desktop area and productivity.
 Requires proper support and display cables.
17. Motherboard, CPU, Storage Device, Peripheral, and Power Supply Upgrades:
 Upgrade considerations and steps for various components.
18. Safe Disposal Methods:
 Adhering to regulations for disposing hazardous computer components.
 Specific guidelines for batteries, monitors, toner kits, etc.
19. Safety Data Sheets (SDS):
 Contains information on hazardous materials.
 Summarizes material identification, hazards, and safety measures.