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N Prepared by James M Njeru.

CHAPTER 4: PERFORM COMPUTER REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE

Unit of learning code: ICT/CU/IT/CR/3/5/A

Related Unit of Competency in Occupational Standard: Perform Computer Repair and

Maintenance

4.1 Introduction to the unit of learning

This unit specifies competencies required to perform computer repair and Maintenance. It
includes performing troubleshooting, disassembling faulty components, repair/replace and
reassembling components, testing computer, component functionality and upgrading computer
software/hardware.

4.2 Summary of Learning Outcomes

1. Perform troubleshooting.
2. Disassemble faulty components.
3. Repair/Replace and reassemble components.
4. Test computer/component functionality
5. Upgrade computer software/hardware
4.2.1 Learning Outcome 1: Perform troubleshooting
4.2.1.1 Introduction to the learning outcome
This unit covers competencies required to perform troubleshooting. It includes Identification of
Computer parts, Hardware Software, assembling of computer maintenance tools, Theory of
probable cause, Assembling and disassembling process, Test of theory of probable cause,
Problem identification and appropriate solutions.
4.2.1.2 Performance Standard
1.2.1.2.1 Identification of computer parts is done.
1.2.1.2.2 Assembling of appropriate computer maintenance tools and maintenance techniques
is done.
1.2.1.2.3 Theory of probable cause is established.
1.2.1.2.4 Testing of the theory to determine cause is done.
1.2.1.2.5 Identification of the problem is established.
1.2.1.2.6 Appropriate solution to the problem is performed.
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4.1.1.3 Information Sheet

Computer Terminologies
CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brains of the computer
Application - a program in which you do your work.
Bit - the smallest piece of information used by the computer. In
computer language, it is either a one (1) or a zero (0).
Backup - a copy of a file or disk you make for archiving purposes.
Hard Drive - a large capacity storage device made of multiple disks
housed in a rigid case.
HDD: Hard Disk Drive
CD: Compact Disk
Icon - a graphic symbol for an application, file or folder.
Kilobyte (K) - 1024 bytes.
Launch - start an application.
Megabyte (MB) - 1024 kilobytes.
Software is a set of electronic instructions that tell a computer what to do.
Memory - the temporary holding area where data is stored while it is
being used or changed; the amount of RAM a computer has installed.
Menu - a list of program commands listed by topic.
Menu Bar - the horizontal bar across the top of the screen that lists
the menus.
Software - files on disks that contain instructions for a computer.
Upload - to send a file from one computer to another through a
network.

Identification of Computer Parts

Hardware and Software
Hardware is any part of a computer system you can see or touch. A peripheral is any piece of
hardware attached to a computer, such as a printer. You cannot see or touch software, but you
can see and touch the packaging the software comes in. Application Software Application
software lets you accomplish specific tasks. Popular application software includes Microsoft
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Word, Excel, Access, WordPerfect, Acrobat Reader, Internet Explorer, etc. Operating System
Software Operating system software controls the overall activity of a computer. Some examples
of operating systems are Windows, Unix Linux, DOS etc
Component Functions
CPU: All information goes through the CPU to be processed. The latest CPUs execute many
millions of instructions per second.
MEMORY: Memory is where the information is stored. a. RAM: Random Access Memory
stores programs and data as it is used. The information in RAM is lost when the power is turned
off. b. ROM: Read Only Memory stores start up and basic operating information.
DISKS: Disks are where large amounts of information are stored, even when the power is off.
a. Floppy Disks - Information can be written to and read from floppy disks. The advantage of
floppy disks is that they can be removed from the computer and the data taken to another
machine. b. Hard disks - Hard disks are not removable like floppy disks, but hold more
information. c. CD ROMs - Compact Disk Read Only Memory. They are useful for storing large
amounts of data. A CD ROM holds about 650 MB of data and is removable.
Input/output Components: Allow a computer to communicate with the outside world. Following
are some examples of input/output devices.
a. Keyboard is used to enter information from the user to the computer.
b. Monitors are used to display information.
c. Video controller is a board in the computer that controls the monitor. It translates the data in
the video memory into symbols on the monitor.
d. Parallel/Serial ports allow the computer to send data to and receive data from printers,
modems, etc.
e. Mouse and Joystick are used to input positional information to the computer. f. Network
Interface Card – A NIC connects the computer to a network. Networks are a high-speed method
of transferring data from one computer to another.
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Figure 1 Hardware components of a Computer Desktop

(https://www. example.com/computer-hardware/)

How Computers Work

A computer collects processes, stores, and outputs information.

Input Devices
An input device lets you communicate with a computer. You can use input devices to enter
information and issue commands. A keyboard, mouse and joystick are input devices.

Processing
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) also known as the system unit is the main chip in a
computer. The CPU processes instructions performs calculations and manages the flow of
information through a compute r system. The CPU communicates with input, output, and storage
devices to perform tasks.
Storage Devices
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A storage device holds information . The compute r uses information stored on these devices to
perform tasks. The hard drive, the tape drive, the floppy disk, and the CD -ROM drive are
storage devices .
Output Devices
An output device lets a computer communicate with you . These devices display information on
a screen, create printed copies or generate sound. Monitor, printers, and speakers are output
devices
Computer maintenance tools
Once you have gathered sufficient information to identify the problem, the next step in the
Computer troubleshooting methodology is to “Establish a Theory of Probable Cause”. Here, you
use your experience and knowledge to determine what you believe to be the underlying issue.
Ask yourself, “What do I think caused the problem?”. Sometimes the first answer that comes to
mind is indeed the cause. Other times that answer is not forthcoming. You may need to work
through a series of tests to help you arrive at that theory.
There are six steps in the series of tests, and they include the following:
1. Identify the problem.
2. Establish a theory of probable cause.
3. Test the theory to determine cause.
4. Establish a plan of action to resolve the problem and implement the solution.
5. Verify full system functionality and if applicable implement preventative measures.
6. Document findings, actions, and outcomes.

Computers are a necessity everywhere; from homes to offices, schools, colleges, hospitals,
banks, railway stations, etc., computers have become an indispensable part of all spheres of our
lives. There is a plethora of hand tools available in the market and online today. Hand tools
enable you to perform manual jobs quickly and efficiently. Choosing the right set of hand
tools for your computer repair kit is crucial to getting you through a large number of hardware
malfunctions very easily and swiftly.
The following are the seven must-haves from a diverse number of hand tools available online
for your computer hardware kit.
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1 Flat-Tip Screwdrivers

Web source: https://www.amazon.com/flat-head-screwdriver/s?k=flat+head+screwdriver

Flat-tip screwdrivers are flat-headed and used to turn slotted screws.
7
1. Philips-Head Screwdrivers

Web source: https://www.amazon.com/Phillips-head-screwdriver/s?

k=Phillips+head+screwdriver
Philips-head screwdrivers are used to tighten or loosen screws that are cross-headed.
3 Nut Drivers
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Web source: https://www.amazon.com/Nut-Drivers/b?ie=UTF8&node=553340

Nut drivers are similar in appearance to a screwdriver, are an essential part of the computer
repair toolkit. They are used to fasten bolts and nuts of varied dimensions. They possess a hollow
shaft that empowers them with a stronghold of the threaded nut.

2. Wire Cutters

Web source: https://www.amazon.com/wire-cutters/b?node=553186

Wire cutters are helpful in stripping and cutting wires as per one’s need.
3. Needle-Nose Pliers

Web source: https://www.amazon.com/Needle-Nose-Pliers/b?ie=UTF8&node=553318

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Needle-nose pliers provide cutting and holding functionalities to the user. They are useful
especially in hardware and electronics repair; because of their pointed needle-like tip, they come
in handy if a nut or an element has become stuck in an otherwise unreachable cranny of the
motherboard.
4. Wire Strippers

Web source: https://www.amazon.com/DOWELL-Stripper-Multi-Function-Tool%EF%BC

%8CProfessional-Craftsmanship/dp/B06X9875Z7
Wire Strippers are pliers that help in stripping the wire off its insulation. A wire is generally
coated with a covering of insulating material. If the situation demands, the wire has to be
stripped-off of all its insulating covering to use it, say as a connector or a cable. A wire stripper
consists of a pair of blades that function as a pair of scissors does.

5. Crimpers

Web source: https://www.google.com/search?q=crimpers&safe=active&sxsrf=ALeKk02B1i-

jB5hgs6hTDJqxL4Q_jO5bEA:1608198692067&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKE
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wiF_JL-3tTtAhWO2BQKHca-
DCIQ_AUoAXoECCYQAw&biw=1600&bih=700#imgrc=iGV740EZQJzzAM
Crimping tools or crimpers are used to connect wires in such a manner that they are able to
transmit data. Two wires are joined together with the help of a crimping tool by deforming either
one or both of the wires. Every single one of the wires need to be conjoined is first placed in the
connector jack and then squeezed and held together to form a uniformly conducting wire.

Figure 2 Computer maintenance tools

The learning point here is about the tools required to assemble a kit that can perform basic,
board-level service on PC systems. One of the best ways to start such a set of tools is to purchase
a small kit sold especially for servicing PCs.
Because they work better than conventional screwdrivers, the use nut drivers to remove the
hexagonal-headed screws that secure the computer system-unit covers, adapter boards, disk
drives, and power supplies in most systems. There is, however, still need standard screwdrivers
for systems that have substituted Phillips-head screws for the more standard hexagonal-head
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screws. If slotted screws are used, they should be removed and replaced with Phillips-head
screws that capture the driver tool and prevent it from slipping off the head of the screw and
potentially damaging the system.
Assembling and Dissembling Process
What is assembling a Personal Computer (PC)?
This part is all about CPU assembling. Specifically, you have to be very careful with this
process.
Following are the steps to assemble CPU:
1. Take Inventory
2. Make space and time.
3. Prepare your CPU case.
4. Install motherboard.
5. Install the processor.
6. Install the processor heat sink.
7. Install the RAM.
8. Install the HDD.
9. Install CD/DVD drive
10. Connect Expansion cards
11. Install SYS/Rear cooling fan.
12. Bus cable connection
13. Power Cable connection
14. Front Panel connector connection
1. Take Inventory:
Before you start, take inventory of your parts. Make sure you have the following components
and tools with you.
1. Case/ Tower/Cabinet
2. Motherboard
3. Processor
4. Heatsink and CPU Fan
5. SMPS
6. Hard disk drive
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7. CD/ DVD drive

8. RAM
9. CMOS Battery
10. A good screwdriver sets.
2. Make Space, Make Time:
Building a PC takes space. You can use your dining room table to build your PC. So, make sure
you have plenty of working space and a few hours to proceed with minimal interruption. You
must work on a flat, stable tabletop surface or bare floor, where you have room to lay out all of
the items, to begin with, assemble.
3. Prepare your CPU cabinet:
Now it is time to prepare the case. Remove the case cover from the CPU cabinet.
You need to check Screw brass standoffs are perfectly placed or not. If it is not in a proper
position, in that case, you need to position them accurately. (always check the manual and follow
their instructions)
4. Install The Motherboard:

Figure 3 motherboard and Back panel cover

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(https://www.tutorialsweb.com/computers/pc-motherboard.htm)

You must take great care, especially when installing the motherboard. First, remove the
motherboard of its packaging and put it on top of the antistatic bag it came in. Remember, you
always want to safeguard your components from potentially hazardous static electricity.
1. You need to secure the motherboard onto the PC case/chassis and inspect carefully for any
visible defects.
2. Next, review the motherboard handbook, to make sure you are familiar with the motherboard
layout and understand which socket is which. Manuals are immensely helpful, usually easy
to read, and include illustrations instructions.
3. Check the layout of the sockets on the motherboard. And confirm that the ports on your
motherboard’s back panel match the holes on the case’s Input/output (I/O) shield installed in
your case. If it is necessary, then remove the old I/O shield by tapping it firmly a few times
with the thicker end of a screwdriver. And then replace it with the shield that came with the
new motherboard.
4. There is need for carefully positioning the motherboard on top of the brass standoffs. After
that line up all the holes, use the screws that accompanied the case to fasten down the
motherboard.

5. Install the processor (CPU):

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Figure 4 CPU (Central Processing Unit) placement)

https://homepage.cs.uri.edu/faculty/wolfe/book/Readings/Reading04.htm

1. Use the unlocking mechanism to open the CPU socket which is, usually a lever.
2. Carefully line up the pins and place the chip in its socket; it will fit only when oriented
correctly. An arrow or a missing pin on one corner of the chip will show you how to line
things up.
3. Align with the triangular symbol with the processor and socket key marks, as shown in the
Figure.
4. Lower the lever to lock the CPU into place.
6. Install The CPU Heat Sink:
Following the manufacturer instructions to install the heat sink and the cooling fan. If buying a
CPU and a separate heat sink, then there is need to spread a thin layer of the thermal grease over
the chip. The thermal grease ensures proper transfer of heat.
There are some heat sinks that come with this grease already applied. In that case, there is no
need to use thermal grease over the chip.
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1. Attach the clip that holds the heat sink in place, keeping in mind that it may require a fair
amount of force. Again, follow the instructions that came with the heat sink. They will show
you how to fit it correctly. If you are in doubt, you can visit the manufacturer’s website for
more information.
2. Plug the CPU fan’s power connector into the proper connector on the motherboard.
7. INSTALL RAM MEMORY:

Figure 5 Installing RAM ( Random Access Memory)

https://www.google.com/search?
q=installing+ram&safe=active&sxsrf=ALeKk00W1se9FJhW0XJS2d0j9f1pkQ6xhQ:160854634
3154&tbm=isch&source=iu&ictx=1&fir=dZQL_jAYPZFy4M%252CWkNWvJ-ZkygBTM
%252C_&vet=1&usg=AI4_-
kQ01bll5FQKixC2YMPJvwLisFyHZw&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwitqo2L7t7tAhUM8hoKHQsNCT
gQ_h16BAgTEAE#imgrc=dZQL_jAYPZFy4M
1. Unlock the two tabs from both ends of the RAM slot.
2. To install the RAM, insert them into the proper sockets and push down firmly but evenly
until the clips on both sides of the socket pop into place. If your motherboard supports dual-
channel memory, consult the user manual to determine which pairs of RAM sockets you
should use.
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8. Install the Power Supply Unit (SMPS):

Figure 6 Installing SMPS (Power supply unit)

https://medium.com/@kekreaditya/how-to-install-smps-in-your-computer-6a19736813c2
1. Place the SMPS inside the CPU cabinet in the proper position. If you are not able to find the
correct location, then check the manual.
2. Final steps, to install SMPS, you need to tighten the screw to secure the SMPS to the case.
9. To install HDD:
You can see a 3.5 inch bay inside the CPU cabinet. If you are unable to find it, then check the
manual of the case to identify the bay location.
Place the HDD inside the bay properly and tighten the screw.
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Figure 7 Installing drives

https://medium.com/@kekreaditya/how-to-install-smps-in-your-computer-6a19736813c2
10. To install CD/DVD:
You can see a 5.25 inch bay inside the CPU cabinet. If you are unable to find it, check the
manual of the case to identify the bay location.
Place the CD/DVD inside the CPU cabinet to align with the 5.25-inch bay. And, finally, you
need to tighten all the screws to hold firmly.
11. Install Expansion cards:
Expansion cards help to increase the functionality of your computer. You can place Expansion
cards on the motherboard.
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Figure 8 Installing Expansion Cards

https://www.google.com/search?
q=Installing+Expansion+Cards&safe=active&sxsrf=ALeKk01Dy_dux99FURhQjg6JnNBXj_zq
GA:1608546492677&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiwuLPS7t7tAhX2UhUIH
Qj1BqkQ_AUoAXoECCIQAw&biw=1600&bih=700#imgrc=hLdDTSdoQRqgiM

PCI compatible expansion cards can place on the PCI slots of the motherboard.
PCI-e compatible expansion cards can place on the PCI-e slots of the motherboard.
Video cards or graphics cards can place on the AGP slot of the motherboard.
You must know about various parts of a motherboard such that, you can effortlessly identify the
different connectors.

12. Install Sys/Rear cooling fan:

Figure 9 Cooling Fans

https://www.amazon.com/Internal-Fans-Cooling-Components/b?ie=UTF8&node=3012290011
Find the location where you can place the Sys/Rear cooling Fan. Generally, SYS/Rear cooling
can place below the SMPS.
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Figure 10 Cooling fans

https://www.amazon.com/Internal-Fans-Cooling-Components/b?
ie=UTF8&node=3012290011
13. Bus cable connection:
Amazingly, bus cable or data cable connections are prime connections. Bus cable helps to share
information or data between the storage device and motherboard.

14. Power Cable connection:

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Figure 11 Cable connection

https://www.educba.com/types-of-computer-cables/
15. Front Panel connector connection:
Use your motherboard user manual and find the description of front-panel connectors.
First, attach each of the tiny leads from the power and reset switches. After that, the hard-disk
activity lights, the PC speaker, and any front-panel USB to the corresponding pin on your
motherboard.
Part2: How to assemble PC.
This one is the final part of assembling a computer system.
1. Check your keyboard connector port. If it is a USB connector, then connect your keyboard
into the proper USB port. And if it is a PS/2 connector, then connect to the correct, PS/2 port.
2. Same steps you need to follow to connect your mouse into the proper port.
3. You require a VGA (Video Graphic Array) cable to connect the monitor and CPU. Find the
15 pins male connector on the backside of the CPU cabinet and your monitor. Use the VGA
cable to connect the CPU cabinet and the monitor. Finally, you need to tighten the lock
screws.
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4. If you have a speaker, you can connect the speaker on the backside of your CPU cabinet. To
get sound from the speaker, you need to plug the speaker’s cable with the Aux port.
5. And if you have a printer, you can connect the printer on the backside of your CPU cabinet.
These days, you can connect your speaker BUS cable on the USB port.
Finally, connects power to the various parts of your computer. You have to connect the power
cable with the CPU case, monitor, speaker, and printer.
Check your PC Set-Up:
It is time to turn on your system and check your PC set up. Make sure the keyboard, mouse, and
monitor are all plugged into the appropriate ports on the back of the PC. Plug the power cord
back in, and turn the machine on.

Most Common Computer Problems Needing Troubleshooting

Although most complex computer issues at work can often be solved by the business IT support
team, there are many other small, but common, issues that occur on a regular basis on a personal
computer. The good news is that many problems with computers have simple solutions, and
learning to recognize a problem and fix it yourself will save you a lot of time and money. The
following are the top 10(ten) common computer problems that you shouldn’t panic over.
1. The Computer Won’t Start
A computer that suddenly shuts off or has difficulty starting up could have a failing power
supply. Check that the computer is plugged into the power point properly and, if that doesn’t
work, test the power point with another working device to confirm whether or not there is
adequate power.
2. The Screen is Blank
If the computer is on but the screen is blank, there may be an issue with the connection between
the computer and the screen. First, check to see if the monitor is plugged into a power point and
that the connection between the monitor and computer hard drive is secure. If the problem is on a
laptop, then you may need to get a professional to fix it as some of the internal wires may be
worn.
3. Abnormally Functioning Operating System or Software
If the operating system or other software is either unresponsive or is acting up, then try restarting
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your computer and run a virus scan. To avoid having this happen, install reliable anti-virus
software.
4. Windows Will not Boot
If you are having troubles booting Windows, then you may have to reinstall it with the Windows
recovery disk.
5. The Screen is Frozen
When your computer freezes, you may have no other option than to reboot and risk losing any
unsaved work. Freezes can be a sign of insufficient ram, registry conflicts, corrupt or missing
files, or spyware. Press and hold the power button until the computer turns off, then restart it and
get to work cleaning up the system so that it doesn’t freeze again.
6. Computer is Slow
If your computer is slower than normal, you can often fix the problem simply by cleaning the
hard disk of unwanted files. You can also install a firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware tools,
and schedule regular registry scans. External hard drives are great storage solutions for
overtaxed CPU’s and will help your computer run faster.
7. Strange Noises
A lot of noise coming from your computer is generally a sign of either hardware malfunction or a
noisy fan. Hard drives often make noise just before they fail, so you may want to back up
information just in case, and fans are very easy to replace.
8. Slow Internet
To improve your Internet browser performance, you need to clear cookies and Internet temporary
files frequently. In the Windows search bar, type ‘%temp%’ and hit enter to open the temporary
files folder.
9. Overheating
If a computer case lacks a sufficient cooling system, then the computer’s components may start
to generate excess heat during operation. To avoid your computer burning itself out, turn it off
and let it rest if it is getting hot. Additionally, you can check the fan to make sure it’s working
properly.
10. Dropped Internet Connections
Dropped Internet connections can be very frustrating. Often the problem is simple and may be
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caused by a bad cable or phone line, which is easy to fix. More serious problems include viruses,
a bad network card or modem, or a problem with the driver.

Trouble Shooting Process

Performing trouble shooting process involve a six-step troubleshooting methodology. The first
step in their methodology is to identify the problem. Step two is to establish a theory of probable
cause. The third step is to test that theory of probable cause. Step four is to develop an action
plan and implement that plan. The fifth step is to verify complete system functionality. And step
six is to document the process. In the section below, each of these steps is covered in more detail.
The six steps of troubleshooting.
1. Identify the problem.
The first thing that you need to be aware of when troubleshooting a problem is that the
symptoms are not the problem. When troubleshooting, it is critical that you actually identify the
underlying problem—what’s actually causing the symptoms to manifest themselves. To do that,
you should question the user. Ask detailed questions about when the symptoms occurred and
why they may have occurred. If the user can re-create the issue for you, this can be extremely
helpful. Determine what, if anything, has changed, which may have caused the problem.
Importantly, before you take any action, make a backup copy of the system, so that you can
preserve everything as it is.
Highlights:
o Question the user.
o Remember that the symptoms are not the underlying problem.
o Determine what has changed.
o Make a backup of the system before moving on.
2. Establish a theory of probable cause.
Once you have identified the base problem that is causing the symptoms, you will establish a list
of probable causes. Once you have a list of all of the probable causes, use your technical
knowledge to prioritize that list. Your list should have the probable causes listed from most
likely to least likely. Incidentally, be sure to question the obvious. For instance, if the symptom is
a power situation at the workstation, is the power cord plugged in and, if it is plugged in, is the
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outlet actually getting power? Additionally, if no probable cause can be determined, you will
need to escalate the problem to a higher level.
Highlights:
o Make a list of probable causes.
o Using your knowledge, prioritize the list.
o Question the obvious (i.e., if the symptom is a power issue at the workstation, first
check to make sure that the power cord is plugged in).
o Escalate to a higher level if a probable cause cannot be determined.
3. Test probable cause theory to determine actual cause.
Once you have established your theory of probable cause, you should take a moment to consider
whether or not you can troubleshoot the issue on your own, or if escalating it to a higher
authority is called for. If it falls within your capabilities, you will need to test your theory to
determine if it is, indeed, the actual cause. Your theory was created from the most likely
probable cause, so you need to determine how best to test it. If your theory is confirmed, you will
move on to the next step. If the theory is disproved, you will need to go back to step two or step
one, as needed, and work your way through the troubleshooting methodology.
Highlights:
o Create your theory from the most likely probable cause.
o If the theory is confirmed, move on to the next step.
o If the theory is not confirmed, go back to step two or step one (if needed).
4. Establish an action plan and execute the plan.
Once you have determined the actual cause by testing your probable cause, you will need to
establish an action plan and then execute that plan. Simple problems will probably only need
simple plans. However, if it is a complex problem, you may need to write out the plan so that
you can be sure to execute it correctly. This is another opportunity to escalate the problem to a
more senior level if necessary.
Highlights:
o Simple problems probably just need simple plans.
o Complex problems may need written out action plans.
o Escalate to a higher level if required.
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5. Verify full system functionality.

After you have executed your plan, you will need to verify that the system is fully functional. If
everything works—that’s great. Based on your findings and the issue, you may find that you
have the opportunity to implement preventative measures so that the problem does not occur
again. If full system functionality has not occurred, you will need to go back to step one and
continue to work through the troubleshooting methodology.
Highlights:
o If everything works, great! If applicable, use your findings to implement
preventative measures.
o If not everything works, go back to step one.
6. Document the process.
Once everything is fully functional, documenting the process becomes important. This is where
you document findings, actions, and outcomes. When the problem occurs again, there will be
information available to walk someone through the means of troubleshooting and resolving the
issue.
This documentation also captures a history of equipment and users so that perpetual issues
become known and recorded. An important aspect of this is that both positive and negative
outcomes should be documented. This can save time during future troubleshooting and prevent
others from taking the same missteps you may have taken.
Highlights:
o Capture your findings, actions, and outcomes.
o Issues that need to be troubleshot may occur again.
o Documentation provides a history of equipment and users so that problem issues
are known.
The importance of having a methodology.
A methodology gives a systematic approach to solving IT problems. It reduces wasted time and
frustration for both the technician and the end user.
Six-step troubleshooting methodology.
Identify the problem; establish theory of probable cause; test the theory; establish a plan of
action and implement it; verify system functionality; and document everything.
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3.2.1.4 Learning Activities

Practical Activity
The learner needs to undertake both assemble and disassemble of a computer. Therefore, below
is a list of activities to help you to assemble and disassemble a computer system.
 Unplugged the AC power supply to the PC from the wall socket.
 Remove the Cover or chassis or case.
 Remove Adapter Cards if any.
 Now Remove the processor and the heatsink and fan.
 Remove hard disk and CD/ DVD drives
 Next, remove the Memory Modules.
 Remove the Power Supply (SMPS)
 Finally, Remove the Motherboard

The learner needs to run a troubleshooter of a Computer Windows. As such, a list of activities to
help solve problems with a Computer is as follows:

1. Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot or select the Find
troubleshooters shortcut at the end of this topic.

https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/windowsbasics/troubleshooting-basic-problems/1/
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2. Select the type of troubleshooting you want to do, then select Run the troubleshooter.
3. Allow the troubleshooter to run and then answer any questions on the screen. If you see a
message that no changes or updates were necessary, you can try recovery options, or find out
more about Outlook error codes and upgrade and installation error codes.

3.2.1.5 Self-Assessment
1. What are the three (3) components of a computer system?
2. Why magnetic screwdrivers are not preferred in troubleshooting and repair
maintenances of PC systems?
3. What does tweezers used for?
4. Which is the proper procedure of removing the hard drive of a computer system?
5. What are the steps to properly assemble the front panel cables of the CPU?
3.2.1.6 Tools, Equipment, Supplies and Materials
Screwdrivers
Nut drivers
Chemicals (such as contact cleaners), component freeze sprays, and compressed air for
cleaning the system
Foam swabs, or lint-free cotton swabs if foam isn’t available
Small nylon wire ties for “dressing” or organizing wires.
3.2.1.7 References
Christenson, P. (2018). PCI Definition. https://techterms.com
Computer Basics: Basic Parts of a Computer. (2020).
https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/computerbasics/basic-parts-of-a-computer/1/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGqJa20Lqwc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctAVC2JwEwI

3.2.1.8 Model answers to self-assessment

1. While hardware and software components co-exist to make up the actual computer,
the humanware component adds in the human face to bring the complete computer into a
functional and productive existence. When installed separately, each may be useful to an extent
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but incapable of achieving complete computing potential. Hardware and software need the
human factor in order to make input and connectivity possible.
2. Magnet's not strong enough to do much real damage, but if you want to be safe, keep
the magnetic bits away from exposed circuitry as they may harm your hard drives.
3. Tweezers are small tools used for picking up objects too small to be easily handled with the
human fingers. The tool is most likely derived from tongs, pincers, or scissors-like pliers used to
grab or hold hot objects.
4.
Step 1: Take Out the Battery. ...
Step 2: Remove the Screws of the Main Access Panel. ...
Step 3: Remove the Drive Mount. ...
Step 4: Pull Out the Drive from the Connectors. ...
Step 5: Take it out from the Bracket.