Fundamentals of Computer Networking Laboratory

Experiment (BSIT 1.1)

(Group Members)

Rayhann Lui Infante

Zandra Llanes Basit

Thria Royella Penamante

Cielo Pagador Mabborang

Mikaella Sanico Ayo

Danicka Pabito

(Professor)

Hans Kristensen Esguerra

This laboratory experiment involves PC assembly, disassembly, and operating system
installation. Through this course, you will gain practical experience working with
computer hardware components and installing popular operating systems like Linux
Mint, Ubuntu, or Windows.
Course Objectives:
● Identify and understand the functions of major PC components (CPU,
motherboard, RAM, storage, power supply, case)
● Practice safe handling procedures for electronic components.
● Disassemble and reassemble a personal computer.
● Install a chosen operating system (Linux Mint, Ubuntu, or Windows) on a PC
● Gain familiarity with basic computer troubleshooting techniques.
Target Audience:
This course is designed for students with no prior experience in computer hardware or
operating system installation.
Prerequisites:
While no prior technical knowledge is assumed, basic computer literacy and familiarity
with using a personal computer are helpful.
Laboratory Requirements:
 ● Each student will be assigned a workstation equipped with a functional PC (may
have slightly different configurations) and the necessary tools for disassembly
and assembly.
● A bootable USB drive with your chosen operating system (Linux Mint, Ubuntu, or
Windows) will be required for installation. Instructions on creating a bootable
USB drive will be provided.
● A lab coat or ESD-safe wrist strap is recommended to minimize the risk of
electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage to components.

Software Options:
Since we will be working with low-specification school PCs with 2GB of RAM, we will be
focusing on operating systems that are optimized for such environments. You will have
the option to install one of the following operating systems:
● Linux Mint/Ubuntu: These Linux distributions are lightweight and run efficiently
on machines with limited resources. They offer a user-friendly interface and a
vast array of free and open-source software.
● Windows (Lite Version if available): A limited version of Windows may be an
option, depending on school policy and software availability.
Important Notes:
● Throughout the laboratory sessions, follow all instructions carefully and prioritize
safety when handling electronic components.
● Always ask your instructor for clarification if you are unsure about any step during
the disassembly, reassembly, or installation process.
● Due to the low RAM configuration of the school PCs, some functionalities in
Windows may be limited. Linux Mint/Ubuntu are generally better suited for these
systems.
● Data on the provided PCs will be erased during the operating system installation
process. Ensure you do not have any important files saved on these machines.

Experiment Overview:
This experiment allows you to gain practical experience in disassembling, reassembling
a personal computer, and installing a chosen operating system (Linux Mint, Ubuntu, or
Windows) on a low-spec PC with 2GB RAM.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this experiment, you will be able to:
● Identify and explain the functions of major PC components.
● Disassemble a PC safely and efficiently.
● Reassemble a PC accurately, ensuring all components are properly connected.
● Install a chosen operating system (Linux Mint, Ubuntu, or Windows) on the PC.
● Troubleshoot basic issues that might arise during the assembly or installation
process.
Materials:
● Functional PC (provided) with low RAM (approximately 2GB)
● Set of screwdrivers (provided)
● Anti-static bag (optional for component storage)
● Bootable USB drive containing your chosen operating system (Linux Mint,
Ubuntu, or Windows - created beforehand)
Procedure:
Part 1: Disassembly (Estimated Time: 30 minutes)
1. Power down and unplug the PC. Disconnect any peripherals connected to the
computer.
2. Ground yourself by touching a metal part of the case before handling
components to prevent static discharge.
3. Place the PC on a clean, flat surface with ample workspace.
4. Open the case following the manufacturer's instructions (usually involves
removing side panels with screws).
5. Identify and carefully remove major components in the following order
(consult the instructor for details specific to your PC model):
o Power supply unit (PSU)
 o Storage drives (HDD/SSD)
o RAM modules
o Graphics card (if present)
o CPU cooler
o CPU (optional, consult instructor)
6. Place each removed component in a designated place or anti-static bag
(optional) for safekeeping.
Part 2: Reassembly (Estimated Time: 45 minutes)
1. Carefully re-install the CPU (if removed) following the manufacturer's
instructions. Apply thermal paste if necessary (consult instructor). (only if
machine is capable)
2. Mount the CPU cooler and secure it to the motherboard.
3. Insert RAM modules into the designated slots, ensuring proper placement
according to the manual.
4. Reinstall storage drives (HDD/SSD) into their bays and connect them to the
motherboard's SATA ports and power connectors.
5. Reinstall the graphics card (if present) following the manufacturer's
instructions.
6. Reinstall the power supply unit (PSU) in its designated location and connect
its cables to the motherboard and other components, following the color-coded
connectors. Double-check all connections for proper fit.
7. Organize cables neatly to improve airflow and avoid clutter.
8. Close the case and secure it with screws.
Part 3: Operating System Installation (Estimated Time: 45 minutes)
1. Boot the PC with the bootable USB drive inserted. Access the BIOS/UEFI
setup menu (usually by pressing Del, F2, or another key during boot) and select
the USB drive as the boot priority.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions for your chosen operating system (Linux
Mint, Ubuntu, or Windows). This typically involves selecting your language,
choosing the installation type, creating a user account, and setting a password.
 3. During installation, be mindful of the limited RAM on these PCs. Choose
options suitable for low-resource systems (consult instructor for specific
recommendations).
4. Once the installation is complete, restart the PC and remove the USB drive.
Data Collection and Observations:
1. Record any difficulties encountered during the disassembly, reassembly, or
installation process. Note down any troubleshooting steps taken to resolve
issues.
2. Observe the overall functionality of the reassembled PC after the operating
system installation.
Post-Experiment Tasks:
1. Power down and properly shut down the PC.
2. Return all tools and components to the designated location.
3. Complete a short laboratory report summarizing your experience. The report
should include:
o A brief description of the experiment and its objectives.
o A detailed account of the disassembly, reassembly, and installation
process, including any challenges encountered.
o Observations on the functionality of the reassembled PC.
o Conclusions drawn from the experiment, including insights gained about
PC hardware and operating system installation.