Unit 1.

Basic Hardware 2hrs

1.1. Basic components of computer (CPU, Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse,
Printer, Scanner, Speaker, Pen drive, DVD/CD, etc.)
1.2. Concepts to assemble/disassemble computer components
1.3. Switching on/off computer
1.4. Connecting/disconnecting/use of various computer components
1.5. Preventive safety and maintenance
What is Information Technology?
• Information technology (IT) is the use of any computers, storage,
networking and other physical devices, and processes to create,
process, store, secure and exchange all forms of electronic data.
• Information technology (IT) is a set of related fields that includes
computer systems, software, programming languages and data and
information processing and storage.
Basic components of computer
Basic components of computer (CPU)
• The Central Processing Unit, or CPU, is the primary component of a computer
that performs most of the processing tasks.
• Often referred to as the brain of the computer.
• The CPU executes instructions, performs calculations, and manages data.

➢Core Components:
• A CPU typically consists of several key components:
• Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs mathematical and logical operations.
• Control Unit (CU): Manages the execution of instructions and controls the flow of
data within the CPU.
• Registers: Small, high-speed storage locations within the CPU that store data and
instructions being processed.
CPU(What it does?)
➢Processing Information:
• It handles all the calculations and tasks, like solving math problems or
figuring out what to do with your clicks and taps.
➢Making Decisions:
• Just like a manager decides what work needs to be done, the CPU
decides which tasks your computer should focus on.
➢Speed:
• The CPU's speed is like how fast the manager can get work done. A
faster CPU means things get done quicker.
Monitor
• Displays visual output from the computer.
➢Types of monitor:
• CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) Monitors:
✓Description: Traditional, bulky monitors that use a cathode ray tube to display
images.
✓Features: Cheaper, but heavy and less energy-efficient.
• LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Monitors:
✓Description: Flat-panel displays that use liquid crystals to create images.
✓Features: Slim and energy-efficient. Common in modern computer setups.
• LED (Light Emitting Diode) Monitors:
✓Description: Similar to LCD monitors, but use LED backlighting instead of traditional
fluorescent lights.
✓Features: Energy-efficient, slim, and can produce vibrant colors.
 Keyboard

• The keyboard is an important input device that serves as a primary

means of communication between users and computers.
• The keyboard allows users to input text and commands into a
computer.
• Each key represents a specific character, number, or function.
• Keyboards typically follow a standard layout, including letters (A-Z),
numbers (0-9), and various symbols.
• Special keys such as Enter, Shift, Ctrl, and Alt play essential roles in
executing commands and performing specific functions.
 Mouse

• A mouse is a hand-held input device for computers that allows users

to control the movement of a cursor on the screen by moving the
mouse across a surface.
• It typically has buttons that can be clicked to perform various actions,
such as selecting, dragging, or interacting with on-screen elements.
 Printer

• A printer is a peripheral device for computers that produces a hard copy or

printed output of electronic documents or images.
• It transfers digital information from a computer or other devices onto
paper or other printable material, allowing users to create tangible copies
of text, graphics, or photos.
• Printers come in various types, including inkjet, laser, and dot matrix, each
suited for specific printing needs.
• Inkjet Printers: Ideal for high-quality photo printing and general-purpose
document printing.
• Laser Printers: Efficient for high-speed, high-volume printing, often used in
offices.
• Dot Matrix Printers: Suited for forms and multipart documents, providing
impact-based printing.
Scanner
• A scanner is a digital input device that captures and converts physical
documents, images, or objects into digital format. (Hard-copy to soft-
copy)
• It uses optical technology to read and record information from the
source material, creating a digital representation that can be stored,
manipulated, or reproduced on a computer.
• Scanners are commonly used for tasks such as document digitization,
image editing, and creating electronic versions of printed materials.
• They come in various types, including flatbed scanners, sheet-fed
scanners, and handheld scanners, each suited for different
applications.
Speaker
• A speaker is an audio output device that converts electrical signals into
sound waves, allowing users to hear audio content generated by electronic
devices such as computers, smartphones, televisions, and audio systems.
• Speakers consist of one or more transducers, typically in the form of drivers
or cones, that vibrate to produce sound when an electrical signal is
received.
• The quality and characteristics of speakers impact the clarity and reliability
of audio reproduction.
• Speakers are an integral part of multimedia systems, providing an
immersive audio experience for various forms of entertainment,
communication, and information distribution.
Pen drive
• A pen drive, also known as a USB flash drive or thumb drive, is a
portable data storage device that is used for secondary data storage.
• It is typically small in size, resembling a small pen or thumb, and
connects to a computer or other compatible device through a USB
(Universal Serial Bus) port.
• Pen drives are used for the easy and convenient transfer of data
between devices.
• Pen drives are commonly used for storing and transporting
documents, files, photos, and other types of digital information.
DVD/CD

• DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) and CD (Compact Disc) are optical storage
media used to store and retrieve digital data, such as audio, video,
documents, and software.
➢Storage Capacity:
• CD: Typically has a storage capacity of 700 MB (megabytes) for data or
approximately 80 minutes of audio.
• DVD: Comes in various capacities, with the most common being 4.7
GB (gigabytes) for single-layer DVDs and 8.5 GB for dual-layer DVDs.
Concepts to assemble/disassemble computer
components
• Assembling and disassembling computer components refer to the
processes of putting together and taking apart the various hardware
elements that make up a computer system.
• These processes are typically performed when building a new
computer, upgrading components, troubleshooting hardware issues,
or conducting maintenance.
Dissembling Computer components:
1. Unplug your computer and peripheral items:
Turn off the computer, unplug the power cord and
unplug any peripheral items attached to the
computer, such as the keyboard, mouse, monitor,
headphones, and any external drives.
2. Remove side covers: Remove at least one of
the side covers, usually the right side as you face
the front of the computer. You might find it easier
to access all the parts if you remove both side
covers;
3. Disconnect connectors: Disconnect all the
connectors, then remove any card readers and
internal DVD players. These are usually screwed
into place.
4. Remove standalone fans: Remove any
standalone fans.
5. Remove the storage drive: Disconnect the cables
and remove the storage drive. Generally, storage
drives are held in place by multiple screws. If you
have a hard drive, be gentle when moving the drive
as hard bumps can damage the internal parts.
6. Remove memory (RAM) modules: Remove the
memory (RAM) modules by pushing the clips on both
ends of the module down. This will cause the module
to pop up for easy removal.
7. Remove power supply unit: Remove the power
supply unit by unplugging the remaining connectors,
then unscrewing the unit from the frame.
8. Remove motherboard adapter or expansion
cards: Remove any adapter or expansion cards from
the motherboard.
9. Remove the motherboard: Disconnect all the
cables from the motherboard
➢If you are assembling the computer, insert the
components in the opposite order you removed
them, starting with the motherboard. Plug in all the
cables as you insert the component; most items
will plug into the motherboard and the power
supply unit.
 Switching on/off computer
• Switching On the Computer:
1. Power Source:
• Ensure the computer is connected to a power source. If using a desktop, make sure
the power supply is plugged into a functional electrical outlet. For a laptop, connect
it to the power adapter.
2. Press the Power Button:
• Press the power button to start the computer. If it's a desktop, you may find the
power button on CPU. On laptops, a brief press is typically sufficient.
3. Boot Process:
• The computer will go through a boot process, during which the operating system is
loaded into memory, and the desktop or login screen eventually appears.
4. Login (if required):
• If the computer has user accounts, enter the appropriate credentials to log in.
Switching on/off computer
➢Switching Off the Computer:
1. Close Applications:
• Close all open applications and files.
2. Start Menu (Windows) or Apple Menu (Mac):
• On a Windows computer, click the Start button in the bottom left
corner, and select "Shutdown" or "Power Off." On a Mac, click the
Apple menu in the top-left corner and choose "Shut Down."
3. Shutdown Dialogue Box:
• Windows may display a dialogue box asking if you want to shut down,
restart, or sleep the computer. Choose "Shut Down."
 Connecting/disconnecting/use of various
computer components
• Connecting Computer Components:
• Power Connection: Ensure the computer is connected to a power source. Desktop
computers typically have a power supply unit connected to an electrical outlet.
Laptops are connected to power adapters.
• Peripheral Devices: Connect peripheral devices such as the keyboard, mouse, printer,
and external drives to the appropriate ports on the computer. These ports may
include USB, HDMI, VGA, or other connectors.
• Monitor Connection: Connect the monitor to the computer's graphics output port.
This could be HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, or VGA, depending on the available ports on
both the computer and the monitor.
• Network Connection: If using a wired connection, connect an Ethernet cable to the
computer's network port. For wireless connectivity, connect to a Wi-Fi network.
• Audio Devices: Connect speakers or headphones to the audio output jack on the
computer. Microphones can be connected to the audio input or microphone jack.
• Disconnecting Computer Components:
1. Unplug External Devices: Disconnect peripheral devices, such as printers,
external drives, and other USB devices, from the computer.
2. Unplug Power: Wait for shutdown processes to complete before
unplugging power cables. Unplug the power cord from the electrical
outlet for desktop computers. Laptops can be disconnected from their
power adapters.
3. Disconnect Monitor: Unplug the monitor from the computer's graphics
output port.
4. Disconnect Network: Unplug the Ethernet cable or disconnect from the
Wi-Fi network.
5. Disconnect Audio Devices: Unplug speakers, headphones, or microphones
from the audio jacks.
 Preventive safety and maintenance
❖Safety Measures:
➢Electrical Safety:
• Use flow protectors to safeguard against power flow.
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets and power strips.
• Regularly check power cables for wearing or damage.
➢Static Electricity Protection:
• Ground yourself by touching a metal surface before handling computer components.
• Use an anti-static wrist strap when working inside the computer case.
➢Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation for the computer to prevent overheating.
• Keep vents and fans clean from dust.
➢Cable Management: Organize cables to prevent tripping hazards and improve airflow.
• Use cable ties or clips to secure and manage cables.
➢Environmental Factors: Keep computers away from direct sunlight, excessive heat, and moisture.
• Maintain a controlled temperature and humidity level in the computing environment.
➢Physical Protection: Place computers in a secure location to prevent accidental bumps or falls.
• Use surge-protected power strips like voltage stabilizer to guard against power fluctuations.
 Preventive safety and maintenance
❖Regular Maintenance:
1. Dust Removal:
• Periodically clean the inside of the computer case to remove dust.
• Use compressed air to clean fans, heat sinks, and other components.
2. Software Updates:
• Keep operating systems, drivers, and software up to date to ensure security and performance.
• Enable automatic updates when possible.
3. Backup Data:
• Regularly back up important data to an external drive or cloud storage.
• Use backup software for automated and scheduled backups.
4. Check for Malware:
• Install and regularly update antivirus and anti-malware software.
• Perform regular scans to detect and remove malicious software.
5. Hard Drive Health:
• Monitor the health of hard drives using built-in diagnostic tools or third-party software.
• Replace failing hard drives promptly to prevent data loss.
 Cont..
6. Temperature Monitoring:
• Use monitoring software to check the temperature of CPU and GPU.
• Ensure that cooling systems are functioning correctly.
7. Memory Check:
• Verify the health of RAM by running memory diagnostics.
• Replace faulty RAM modules as needed.
8. Check for Updates:
• Regularly check for firmware updates for components such as the motherboard and
graphics card.
• Follow manufacturers' guidelines for updating firmware.
9. Peripheral Maintenance:
• Clean keyboards, mice, and other peripherals regularly.
• Replace batteries in wireless devices when needed.
10. Regular System Cleanup:
• Uninstall unused applications to free up disk space.
• Use disk cleanup tools to remove temporary files and unnecessary data.