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PC Assembly

The document provides steps for assembling a computer, including preparing the workspace, opening the computer case, installing the power supply, motherboard, CPU, RAM, drives, adapter cards, and connecting internal and external cables. Key steps are installing the motherboard after the CPU and RAM, using standoffs to securely mount the motherboard, connecting power cables to the motherboard and components, and reassembling the case after ensuring all parts are correctly installed.

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diofederis
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10 views17 pages

PC Assembly

The document provides steps for assembling a computer, including preparing the workspace, opening the computer case, installing the power supply, motherboard, CPU, RAM, drives, adapter cards, and connecting internal and external cables. Key steps are installing the motherboard after the CPU and RAM, using standoffs to securely mount the motherboard, connecting power cables to the motherboard and components, and reassembling the case after ensuring all parts are correctly installed.

Uploaded by

diofederis
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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IT Essentials

PC Assembly
Assemble the
Computer
Open the Case

• Prepare the workspace before opening the computer case.


• There are also different methods for opening cases.
• Consult the case’s documentation to learn how to open a
computer case.
Install the Power Supply

• Modern cases include a specific area for the power supply.


• Consult the case and power supply’s manuals for more
information.
• Secure the power supply to the case using the proper
screws.
• Make sure that all the screws are in place and tightened
correctly.
• Use a cable tie to secure all the cables out of the way.
Install the Motherboard

• Install the CPU, Heatsink and Fan Assembly


⚬ Install the CPU and the heat sink and fan assembly on the
motherboard before the motherboard is placed in the computer case.
⚬ CPU and motherboard are highly sensitive to ESD.
⚬ Use the markings on the CPU and motherboard to properly align and
install the CPU.
⚬ Thermal compounds help dissipating CPU heat and are strongly
recommended.
⚬ Heat sinks and fans should also be properly aligned for correct
installation.
Install the Motherboard

• Install RAM
⚬ RAM may be installed on the motherboard before the
motherboard is installed in the computer case.
⚬ RAM is highly sensitive to ESD.
⚬ RAM is designed to install in one specific direction. Make
sure to check the markings before applying pressure.
Install the Motherboard

• Install the Motherboard


⚬ When the CPU, heat sink, fan and RAM are installed on the
motherboard, the motherboard can install in the case.
⚬ Use proper plastic standoffs to securely install the
motherboard in the case and avoid short circuits.
⚬ The I/O connectors on the back of the motherboard should
be aligned with the openings in the I/O plate.
Install the Drives

• Install the Internal Drive


⚬ Internal drives are installed in empty hard drive bays
found in the case.
⚬ The empty bay must match the drive’s size.
⚬ Leave some space between the drives when installing
multiple drives.
⚬ The drive’s metal plate should face up to allow better
heat dissipation.
Install the Adapter Cards

• Types of Adapter Cards


⚬ Examples of adapter cards include: video, Ethernet and
wireless network, sound, TV tuner, video capture,
external ports such as USB, FireWire, Thunderbolt.
⚬ PCI and PCIe are two common slots for adapter cards.
Install the Adapter Cards

• Install a Wireless NIC


⚬ Commonly use PCI or PCIe expansion slots or USB
connectors.
⚬ Locate an empty expansion slot and follow the
manufacturer instructions for proper installation.
Install the Cables

• Connect Power to Motherboard


⚬ Motherboards require power to operate.
⚬ Motherboards also relay power to components and adapter cards.
⚬ Refer to the motherboard and power supply documentation to ensure
compatibility of power supply and motherboard connectors.
⚬ Modern motherboards require two power connectors for operation.
⚬ Align the proper connectors and press it down against the
motherboard.
⚬ Remember: If it is difficult to plug in a cable or other part, something
is wrong. Do not use more force.
Install the Cables

• Connect Power to the Internal Drive and Case Fans


⚬ Some drives accept different power connectors for
compatibility.
⚬ 4-pin Molex and 15-pin SATA are common hard drive
connectors.
⚬ Align the proper connectors and gently press it against
the other end.
⚬ Fans also need power and use 3-pin or 4-pin connectors.
Install the Cables

• Connect the Internal Data Cables


⚬ The internal and optical drives typically connect to the
motherboard through SATA cables.
⚬ SATA are keyed to fit in only one direction. They also
have locking tabs.
⚬ Locate the SATA socket on the motherboard, align the
connector and press it gently to connect.
Install the Cables

• Install the Front Panel Cables


⚬ Most of the case’s front panel controls, ports and
connectors also connect to the motherboard.
⚬ Front panel cables and connected are usually not keyed.
⚬ The front panel cables that must be connected to the
motherboard include: power button, reset button, status
LEDs and the speakers.
Install the Cables

• Reassemble the Case


⚬ Double-check cables and components to ensure that all
are correctly installed.
⚬ Secure case cover screws.
⚬ Watch for small wires hanging off the case to avoid
pinching them.
Install the Cables

• Install the External Cables


⚬ The power cable should be the last cable to be
connected.
⚬ External cables include: video cable, USB cables,
network cable, speakers and microphones.
Assemble the Computer
1. Prepare the workspace and tools. 7. Install the Motherboard.

2. Prepare the computer components. 8. Install the Drives.

3. Unscrew the side panel. 9. Install the Adapter Cards.

4. Install the Power Supply. 10. Install the Internal Cables.

5. Install CPU and CPU Fan on the motherboard. 11. Screw the side panel.

6. Install RAM on the motherboard 12. Install the External Cables.

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