Module 1 - Installing Computer Systems and Networks

Topic outline
This module will teach you how to install, assemble and test computers and common peripherals.
Upon completion of this module, you will be able to: a. Plan and prepare for installation

b. Install equipment/device systems

c. Conduct tests

Connecting Basic Peripheral Devices file Installing an Operating System file Installing System Drivers file Installing Computer Networks file Setting up a Wireless Network file Self Check - Module 1 Quiz Comments and Suggestions Forum

Connecting Basic Peripheral Devices

Session Objectives
At the end of this session, you will be able to: Identify the basic peripherals needed to start up a computer system Connect the basic peripherals to a computer system unit Start up the computer system

Introduction
Welcome to the session on Connecting Basic Peripheral Devices. This session will teach you how to connect basic peripheral devices and start up a computer system.

System Unit
This is the system unit. It is the main part of the computer system and houses the Central Processing Unit (CPU), motherboard, memory, storage devices, expansion cards and the power supply.

What are computer peripherals?

Computer peripherals are devices that are attached to a computer. These devices are not part of the system unit, but are important since they provide the input and output functions in order for the users to perform their tasks.
The basic peripherals that you will need to start-up the computer are: Monitor Keyboard Mouse

Monitor
A computer monitor or display screen is an output device that enables the user to view text, graphics and videos.

How to connect the monitor to the system unit

Monitor

Keyboard
A keyboard is an input device that allows the user to enter instructions and information into a computer.

How to connect the keyboard to the system unit

Keyboard

Mouse
A mouse is an input device that controls the movement of the cursor or pointer and enables the user to move and select items that are displayed on the monitor.

How to connect the mouse to the system unit

Mouse

End of session
You have reached the end of this session, you may now proceed to Installing an Operating System.

Installing an Operating System

Session Objectives
At the end of this session, you will be able to: Configure boot options in the BIOS Install an operating system on a computer

Introduction
Welcome to the session on Connecting Basic Peripheral Devices. This session will teach you how to connect basic peripheral devices and start up a computer system.

What is an Operating System?

An operating system or OS is a program that is loaded after the computer starts-up and manages all operations and applications in a computer. The most popular operating system is Microsofts Windows.
Other examples of operating systems are: Apples Mac OS X Redhat Linux, and other open source distributions of Linux Why do we need to install an Operating System? Without an operating system a computer is just a metal casing with components inside it. The operating system acts as an interface between the user and the computer, translating the user inputs into machine instructions and, thus letting the computer perform the desired task.

Installing Windows XP
In this session you are going to install Microsofts Windows XP.
What you will need: Computer system with at least 1GB memory and a 500GB hard disk drive Windows XP installation CD Windows XP license key System manual that comes with your computer

Step 1: Setting up the boot option

Why do we need to set the computer to boot from the CD-ROM drive? Normally a computer system boots from the hard drive. From here, the computer loads the operating system that is installed on the computer system. Since we are installing a new operating system on the computer, and our installation files are stored in a CD-ROM, we need to set the computer to boot from the CD-ROM drive instead. This is done in the BIOS setup. Procedure: 1 Turn on the computer. 2 Press the Delete key while the computer is starting up to enter the BIOS setup. This will work on most computer systems.

Step 1: Setting up the boot option

Note: Other computers have function keys to access the BIOS setup. You may need to consult your users manual on how to access the BIOS setup screen. 3. In the BIOS setup screen, look for the Boot Options Menu. This is usually found at the top of the screen. In some computers it is found in the Advance menu. 4 Select the CD-ROM Drive as the first boot device. 5 Go to the Exit menu and select Save and Exit to save your configuration. Note: You may need to consult the User's Manual on how to set the CDROM Drive as first boot device.

Step 2: Partitioning the hard drive

What is disk partitioning? Disk partitioning is simply dividing your hard drive into multiple volumes known as logical drives. As an example, if you have a 500 GB hard drive, you can divide the hard drive into two volumes, each with 250GB (e.g. 250 GB drive C: and 250 GB drive D:). By doing this, you can install the operating system and applications in one volume and your data and documents in another volume. In case the operating system gets corrupted and needs to be re-installed, you can do so without losing documents and other data since these are stored in another partition.

Step 2: Partitioning the hard drive

Procedure: 1. Insert the Windows XP Installation CD in the CD-ROM drive and restart the computer. 2. When prompted as the computer reboots, press any key to start the installation. 3. After the installer completes copying all necessary files to install Windows XP, you will be taken to the welcome setup screen. To install a fresh copy of Windows XP, press the Enter key. 4. Read the Windows XP License Agreement, then press F8 to agree with the terms and conditions and proceed with the installation. Deleting a partition 5. To delete a partition. Select the drive then press D, and then press Enter, and finally press the L key

Step 2: Partitioning the hard drive

Creating a partition 6. When the partition with a previously installed operating system has been deleted, a new partition can now be created on the hard disk. Press C key on the keyboard to create a new partition.

In this example you will use 60 GB as the partition size . Enter 60000 MB as the partition size and press ENTER.

7. After creating the partition, you will be brought back to the hard disk partition screen. Select the partition that you have created then press ENTER.

Step 3: Formatting the hard drive

Why do we need to format the hard drive? Formatting the hard drive is a process that prepares the hard drive for writing and reading data. The process involves erasing all data stored on the hard drive. It also tests the disk for errors and corrects them if any are found. When formatting the hard drive, we need to specify a file system. In Windows XP, we can select either the FAT32 or NTFS. Procedure: 1. Select Format the partition using the NTFS file system option and press ENTER to continue. 2. After the drive is formatted, the installer will copy the installation files to your hard disk. Once all the operations are completed, the computer will restart.

Step 3: Formatting the hard drive

Note: Do not remove the Windows XP installation CD from the CD-ROM Drive while the computer is restarting. 3. After the computer reboots, it will automatically start the Windows installer. You may proceed to the next step.

Step 4: Setting up the Windows environment

Setting the Windows environment lets you localize the version of Windows you are installing. For example, if you want to display text in Chinese, you can set this in the Regional and Language Options. Procedure: 1 When Windows XP starts for the first time it will scan for any new hardware and will install the needed drivers of the supported devices, this may take several minutes to complete. The Regional and Language Options screen will appear. Click the Next button to accept the default setting and continue

Step 4: Setting up the Windows environment

3. On the Personalize Your Software screen, enter your name and organization. Then click the Next button to continue. Example: Enter Juan Dela Cruz as your name and Computer Corporation in the organization text box.

Next, enter your Windows XP Product Key that comes with your Installation CD. The product key is 25 characters long and is unique for every installation CD. Once you have entered the product key, click the Next button to continue.

Step 5: Setting up the computer name and administrator account

The Computer name is used to identify your computer in a network. This name should be unique for each computer.

The Administrator is a super user account that has no restrictions. This account may be used to set configuration options (e.g. network settings, install software and perform other administrative tasks).
Procedure: 1. On the Computer Name and Administrator Password screen, enter your desired computer name and password. Click on the Next button to continue. Example: Enter My Computer in the Computer name text box and enter P4w@rd in the Administrator password text box.

Step 6: Setting up the date and time

Set the correct date and time. This is important especially when downloading updates and security patches. Procedure: 1. On the Date and Time settings, enter the correct date and time. 2. Select your time zone then click on the Next button to continue.

Step 7: Setting up the network

Setting up the network connects your computer to the internet and/or to your local area network. By doing this, you will be able to access shared network resources such as files, applications and devices. Procedure: 1. Windows XP will now detect network connections. If the network card in the computer is supported by Windows XP. It will install the drivers for you. Once finished, select Typical Setting and click the Next button to continue.

Step 7: Setting up the network

2 On the Workgroup or Computer Domain screen, enter your desired workgroup name or leave it as it is and click the Next button to continue. After setting the workgroup, the installer will finalize all settings and restart the computer. When the computer reboots you may now remove the Windows XP installation CD from the CD-ROM Drive.

Step 8: Setting up the display

Procedure: 1 After the computer reboots and loads into Windows, a display setting dialog box will appear. Click Ok to let Windows XP adjust your screen resolution. Windows will automatically detect the best resolution for your monitor; this will make sure that the text will be readable. 2. On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows screen, click Next to continue.

Step 9: Registering Windows XP

By registering your copy of Windows you will have access to Windows updates and security patches. This will be downloaded to and installed on your computer automatically. Procedure: 1 Windows will now check for your internet connectivity, click the Skip button to continue. 2 At this time, we will not be registering Windows, so on the registration screen, click on the "No, not at this time option" and click on the Skip button to continue.

Step 10: Creating log-in credentials

Creating log-in credentials is useful when the computer is to be used by multiple users. Windows will create document folders that are only accessible to specific user. For this task, you will be creating one (1) user credential.

Procedure: 1 On the "Who will use this computer?" screen, enter your desired user name and click on the Next button. This credential will be used every time you log-in to your computer. Example: Enter User on the your name text box.

Step 10: Creating log-in credentials

You are almost finished with installation and configuration of windows XP, click on the Finish button to proceed to the desktop. Congratulations! You have installed Windows XP on your computer.

Summary
A. An Operating system is important for a computer system as it acts as an interface between the user and the computer. Without it a computer will not be able to perform tasks.
B. There are ten (10) essential steps you need to remember when installing a Windows Operating System, these are: 1. Setting up the boot option 2. Partitioning the hard drive 3. Formatting the hard drive 4. Setting up the Windows environment 5. Setting up the computer name and administrator account 6. Setting up the date and time 7. Setting up the network 8. Setting up the display 9. Registering Windows XP 10. Creating log-in credentials

End of session
You have reached the end of this session, you may now proceed to Installing System Drivers.

Installing System Drivers

Session Objectives
At the end of this session, you will be able to: Install a Video Card Driver Install a Network Interface Controller (LAN port) Driver Install a Sound Card Driver

Introduction
Welcome to the session on Installing System Drivers. This session will teach you how to install the system device drivers for a computer system's video card, network interface controller (LAN port), sound card and motherboard chipsets.

The Video Card

A video card is an expansion card that converts data input into visual display.

Installing the video card driver

Procedure: 1. Insert the CD containing the video card driver into the CD-ROM. 2. In Windows Explorer, browse and select the drive containing the device driver. 3. Double click on setup.exe or the appropriate executable file. 4. Follow the on-screen instructions. 5. After the installation is finished reboot the computer.

How to Install a Video Card Driver

The Network Interface Controller (LAN port)

Network Interface Controller or LAN port is a device that connects your computer to other computers and devices in a network. Installing the Network Interface Controller driver Procedure: 1. Insert the CD containing the network interface controller driver into the CDROM. 2. In Windows Explorer, browse and select the drive containing the device driver. 3. Double click on setup.exe or the appropriate executable file. 4. Follow the on-screen instructions. 5. After the installation is finished, reboot the computer.

How to Install a LAN Driver

The Sound Card (audio adapter)

The sound card or audio adapter is a device that enables your computer to play and record sounds. Installing the Sound Card (audio adapter) driver Procedure: 1. Insert the CD containing the Network Interface Controller driver into the CDROM. 2. In Windows Explorer, browse and select the drive containing the device driver. 3. Double click on setup.exe or the appropriate executable file. 4. Follow the on-screen instructions. 5. After the installation is finished, reboot the computer.

How to Install a Sound Card Driver

End of session
You have reached the end of this session, you may now proceed to Installing Computer Networks.

Installing Computer Networks

Session Objectives
At the end of this session, you will be able to: Identify the different types of network Identify the different network topologies

Introduction
Welcome to the session on Installation of Computer Network. At the end of this session, you will be able to identify the different types of network and network topologies.

Computer Network
What is a network? A network is the interconnection of computers, devices and peripherals to allow them to communicate, share or print data and information. There are two types of networks:

Local Area Network (LAN)

The Local Area Network or LAN is the interconnection of computers and devices using a hub, switch or router within a small area such as building, school, office or home.

Computer Network
2. Wide Area Network (WAN) The Wide Area Network or WAN is the interconnection of a number of local area networks over a large area such as province, city, or country. WANs usually utilize high end technologies and high capacity network equipment.

Network Models
Types of Network Models 1. The Client Server Model The Client-Server model consists of one or more servers that provide services/applications or resources to one or more individual computers called clients. The client and server communicates using a computer network. An example of a Client Server Model is the Internet. A server is a computer providing one or more services (printing, file, data and information sharing, email, and other applications) to serve other computers and devices. A server machine runs the different programs or applications and services which share their resources with clients. A client does not share any of its resources but requests a server's content or service function.

Network Models
A client is a computer or device that is requesting a service or resources from a server. The client computer sends the request to the server machine. 2. The Peer - to - Peer Model The Peer - to -peer model consists of two or more connected computers sharing similar capabilities, services and resources. Peers are both providers and users of resources in contrast to the client-server model where only servers provide or supply (send), and clients request and consume(receive) the service.

Network Topology
What is the Network Topology? It is a representation or structure of a network that deals with different types of interconnectivity. What are the types of Network Topologies? Network topologies are categorized into the following basic types: 1. Bus Topology The Bus Topology uses a common cable to connect all the computers. A computer wanting to communicate with another computer on the network sends the message to all computers through the cable, but only the target computer accepts the message.

Network Topology
2. Ring Topology Computers that are using the Ring Topology forms a ring when Interconnecting to each other. A computer in the ring topology transmits the message, either clockwise or counterclockwise through the computer on either side. The message is then passed on from computer to computer until it reaches the intended recipient.

Network Topology
3. Star Topology The Star Topology uses a central device such as a hub, switch or a router to connect a computer / computers to the network. All communication requests are transmitted through the central device before reaching the intended target computer.

Network Topology
4. Mesh Topology The Mesh Topology employs network redundancy which means messages sent can take several routes from source to destination. When one hub, switch or router is unavailable, the message is rerouted to another device until the messages reaches its destination. The internet employs the mesh routing topology.

Summary
A Network is the interconnection of computers, devices and peripherals to allow them to communicate, share or print data and information.
A Network Topology is the layout pattern representation of the interconnection of all the computers, nodes, links and other peripherals of a network. It shows the structure and transmission links that connect nodes in a network. In this session you have identified the: 1. Types of Networks 2. Types of Network Topologies

End of session
You have reached the end of this session, you may now proceed to Setting up a Wireless Network.

Setting up a Wireless Network

Session Objectives
At the end of this session, you will be able to: Install a Wireless Router Install a Wireless LAN Card

Introduction
Welcome to the session on Setting up a Wireless Network. This session will teach you how to Install a Wireless Router and Wireless LAN Card.

Installing a Wireless Router

Wireless Network A Wireless Network, or commonly called as WLAN or Wi-Fi uses radio signal frequency to Connect computers and other network devices. This is based on the IEEE 802.11 standards rules and regulations. What are the benefits of a Wireless Network? 1. Flexibility. With no wires you can easily access your network resources from any location. 2. Cost. It reduces the cost of installation and labor. 3 Security. The wireless network uses a wireless router which has security features to encrypt your network traffic.

Installing a Wireless Router

What is a Wireless Router? It is a device that performs like a wired router without using cable to connect to a network. How to Install a Wireless Router? Installing a wireless router is the more convenient way to connect to the internet/ network and share resources.

Installing a Wireless Router

Instructions on how to install a Wireless Router: 1. Make sure that the computer, modem and wireless router are disconnected from the power outlet. 2. Connect one end of the network cable into the Ethernet port of the modem, and the other end into the WAN or Internet port of the wireless router. 3. Reconnect to the power outlet and turn on your computer, modem and wireless router. 4. To check if the network cable is properly connected, the WAN or Internet port LED indicator of the wireless router should turn green. Otherwise, check if the network cable is properly inserted. 5. You may then proceed to configure your wireless router. To do this, please refer to the User's Manual on how to configure your wireless router.

Installing a Wireless LAN Card

Wireless LAN Card A Wireless LAN Card is a device that is Capable of connecting computers thru the use of wireless technology. It does not use wires or cables to connect to the network. Procedure: 1. Turn off the computer. Make sure it is unplugged from the power outlet 2. Remove all peripheral devices that are connected to the system unit. 3. Remove the side cover of the system unit. 4. Locate a free PCI slot on your motherboard. 5. Insert the wireless LAN card into the PCI slot by pushing it gently on both ends. Make sure that the wireless LAN card is firmly inserted.

Installing a Wireless LAN Card

6. Screw to securely fasten the wireless LAN card. 7. Put the side cover back into place. 8. Turn on your computer. 9. For the wireless LAN card to work, you will need to install the wireless LAN card driver. 10. After installation of the driver, you can now connect the computer to a wireless network.

Summary
A Wireless Router is a router that is capable of sending and receiving data thru the use of wireless technology.
A Wireless LAN card is a device that enables the computer to connect to a Local Area Network (LAN) with its wireless technology.

In this Session you learned about: Installation of a Wireless Router Installation of a Wireless LAN Card

End of session
You have reached the end of this session, you may now proceed to Self Check for Module 1.

Self Check

Self Check - Module 1

1 It is a device that connects your computer to other computers Choose one answer. a. Video Card b. LAN Card c. Memory d. Sound Card 2 These are the benefits of a wireless network except one Choose one answer. a. Flexibility b. Security c. Cost d. Use LAN Card 3 A type of network model that consists of two or more computers sharing similar capabilities, services and resources Choose one answer. a. Client b. Peer-to-Peer c. Client Server d. Server

Self Check - Module 1

4 A computer that is requesting a service or resource from a server Choose one answer. a. Client b. Peer c. Slave d. Server 5 What do you call the action that you need to do to divide your hard drive into multiple volumes? Choose one answer. a. Formatting b. Scanning c. Defragmentation d. Partitioning 6 These are the basic peripheral devices except one Choose one answer. a. Mouse b. Monitor c. Hard Disk d. Keyboard

Self Check - Module 1

7 A type of network that uses radio frequency signal Choose one answer. a. Wired Network b. Local Area Network c. Wireless Network d. Wide Area Network 8 What computer term is used to describe the devices that are attached to a computer? Choose one answer. a. Output Device b. Peripheral Device c. Input Device d. Storage Device 9 What expansion card can convert data input to visual display? Choose one answer. a. LAN Card b. Sound Card c. Video Card d. Memory

Self Check - Module 1

10 What keyboard key must you press in order to enter the BIOS? Choose one answer. a. Home b. Function Key c. Delete d. Insert

Self Check - Module 1

Answers: 1. b 2. d 3. c 6. c 7. c 8. b

4. a
5. d

9. c
10. c