Lesson 3: Use of Tools in PC Hardware Servicing

Definition of Terms:
Bin - a container or enclosed space for storage.
Computer chassis - the enclosure that contains most of the components of a computer.
Diagnostic tools - used to test the integrity of circuits and the quality of electricity in computer components and
to test the functionality of computer ports.
Hazards - risks; dangers.
Insulation - - - - - - a material that reduces or prevents the transmission of heat or sound or electricity.
Nozzle - - - - - - - - -a projecting part with an opening, as at the end of a hose, for regulating and directing a flow
of fluid.
Preventive - intended or used to prevent or hinder.
Static electricity - an accumulation of electric charge on an insulated body.
Tool - - - - - - - - - a handheld device that aids in accomplishing a task.
Toolkit - - - - - - - a set of tools designed to be used together or for a particular purpose.
ESD - - - - - - - - - Electrostatic discharge.
USB - - - - - - - - - Universal serial bus
LCD - - - - - - - - - Liquid crystal display
Information Sheet 3.1.1
Proper tool selection
A tool is a handheld device that aids in accomplishing a task. Tools range from a traditional metal cutting
part of a machine to an element of a computer program that activates and controls a particular function.

Preparing for the task to be undertaken includes proper tool selection.

1. How do you select the best tool for the job? First, know and understand in detail the scope of work to
be accomplished, second, plan for the scope taking into account the sequence of tasks.
2. Selecting the best tool for each task requires training in the proper use of the tools, field experience in
their safe use, and following the manufacturer’s guidance and instructions for that specific tool.
3. When obtaining the tool all the associated tooling and consumable parts, as recommended by the
manufacturer, must be included. In addition, related consumable parts must also be selected and used
according to their manufacturer’s instructions.

Safe Use of tools

Once selected, use the tool for the purpose for which it was designed. Not all tools come with detailed
instructions, but there are those that do spell out the safety ―Do’s and Don’ts‖ for the your safety. If there are
set-up/use options, operator judgment must always be based on what is the safest way to use the tool.

Environmental Safety and Health Program requires the following:

• All tools be kept in good condition with regular maintenance
• The right tool be used for the job
• Each tool be examined before use AND damaged or defective tools NOT to be used
• Tools be operated according to manufacturer’s instructions
• The right protective equipment for the tool and activity be used

HARDWARE TOOLS
To complete hardware repairs, it is important to have a toolkit that should contain all of the necessary tools. As
you gain experience, you will learn which tools to have available for different types of jobs. Hardware tools are
grouped into these four categories:
• Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) tools
• Hand tools
• Cleaning tools
• Diagnostic tools

Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) Tools

Static electricity is easily generated by friction on carpets, tile flooring, clothing, hair, fabric, and etc. The friction
of moving air alone will charge suspended particles and cause the buildup of static electrical charges on
people and objects in the environment. Grounded antistatic work mats used with antistatic wrist straps provide
the most basic means for the controlled discharge of electrostatic electricity.
Examples of ESD Tools:

Anti-static wrist strap – Used to prevent ESD damage to computer equipment.

Figure 29. Anti- static wrist strap

Anti-static mat – Used to stand on or place hardware on to prevent static electricity from building up.

Figure 30. Anti- static mat

Hand Tools

A hand tool is a device for performing work on a material or a physical system using only hands. Hand
tools can be used manually or electrically powered, using electrical current.

Table 3. Hand Tools

Tool Description

Flat Head Screwdriver – Used to loosen or tighten negative slotted

screws.

Philips Head Screwdriver – Used to loosen or tighten cross-head/positive

slotted screws.

Torx Screwdriver - Used to loosen or tighten screws that have a star-like

depression on the top, a feature that is mainly found on laptop.

Hex Driver – Sometimes called a nut driver, is used to tighten nuts in the
same way that a screwdriver tightens screws.
Needle-Nose Pliers – Used to hold small parts.

Wire Cutter – Used to strip and cut wires.

Tweezers – Used to manipulate small parts.

Part Retriever – Used to retrieve parts from location that is too small for
your hand to fit.

Flashlight – Used to light up areas that you cannot see well.

Cleaning Tools

Having the appropriate cleaning tools is essential when maintaining or repairing computers. Using these
tools ensures that computer components are not damaged during cleaning.

Table 4. Cleaning Tools

Tools Description

Lint-free Cloth – Used to clean different computer components without

scratching or leaving debris.

Compressed Air – Used to blow away dust and debris from different
computer parts without touching the components.

Cable Ties – Used to bundle cables neatly inside and outside of a

computer.

Parts Organizer – Used to hold screw, jumpers, fasteners and other small
parts and prevents them from getting mixed together.
Diagnostic Tools

Computers are easier to use and more dependable with each new generation of hardware and operating
system update, but that does not mean they are problem-free. Here are the most popular tools for diagnosing
your computer problems:

Table 5. Diagnostic tools

Tools Description

Multimeter – Used to test the integrity of circuits and the quality of

electricity in computer components.

Loopback Adapter – Used to test the functionality of computer ports.

Self-Check 3.1.1

A. Directions. Write TRUE if the statement is correct and FALSE if it is wrong. Write your answers on a separate
sheet of paper.
_______ 1. Selecting the best tool for each task requires training in the proper use of the tools, field experience
in their safe use, and following the manufacturer’s guidance and instructions for that specific tool.
_______ 2. When obtaining the tool, all the associated tooling and consumable parts, as recommended by the
manufacturer, must be included.
_______ 3. The safe use of a tool depends on using the tool for the purpose for which it was designed and also
for other purposes where it can be used as substitute where tool is not available.
_______ 4. All tools should be kept in good condition with regular maintenance.
_______ 5. Preparing for a task includes only knowing the task to be done.
_______ 6. Preparing for a task includes also the sequence of tasks to be done.
B. Directions: Identify the tools on the boxes. Write your answer on a separate sheet of paper.

1. 8.

2. 9.

3. 10.

4. 11.

5. 12.

6. 13.

7. 14.
 Use Appropriate Hand Tools and Test Equipment
Information Sheet 3.2.1
Proper Use of ESD Tools

Proper Use of Antistatic Wrist Strap

The purpose of an antistatic wrist strap is to equalize the electrical charge between you and the
equipment. The antistatic wrist strap is a conductor that connects your
body to the equipment that you are working on. When static electricity
builds up in your body, the connection made by the wrist strap to the
equipment, or ground, channels the electricity through the wire that
connects the strap.
1. Connect the cable to the metal chassis of the computer.
2. Wrap the strap around your wrist.
3. The connection will keep your body at the same voltage (potential) as
the computer.
4. Attach the wire on the same side of the equipment as the arm wearing
the antistatic wrist strap to keep the wire out of the way while you are
working.
Figure 31. Proper Use of Anti- static wrist strap

CAUTION: Never wear an antistatic wrist strap if you are repairing a monitor or CRT.

Proper Use of Antistatic Mat

An antistatic mat is slightly conductive. It works by

drawing static electricity away from a component and
transferring it safely from equipment to a grounding
point.
1. Lay the computer on the mat.
2. Connect the computer to the mat with the cable.
3. Connect the mat to a reliable electrical ground with its
cable.

4. Now, you and the computer are at ground potential.

Figure 32. Proper Use of Anti- static mat

NOTE: Reducing the potential for ESD reduces the likelihood of damage to delicate circuits or components.

Proper Use of Hand Tools

A technician needs to be able to properly use each tool in the toolkit. This topic covers many of the
various hand tools used when repairing computers.

Screws
Match each screw with the proper screwdriver. Place the tip of the screwdriver on the head of the screw.
Turn the screwdriver clockwise to tighten the screw and counterclockwise to loosen the screw.
Screws can become stripped if you over-tighten them with a screwdriver. A stripped screw, may get stuck
in the screw hole, or it may not tighten firmly. Discard stripped screws.
 Flat head screwdriver
Use a flat head screwdriver when you are working with a slotted screw. Do not use a flat head screwdriver
to remove a Phillips head screw. Never use a screwdriver as a pry bar. If you cannot remove a component,
check to see if there is a clip or latch that is securing the component in place.
Phillips head screwdriver
Use a Phillips head screwdriver with crosshead screws. Do not use this type of screwdriver to puncture
anything. This will damage the head of the screwdriver.

Hex driver
Use a hex driver to loosen and tighten bolts that have a hexagonal (six-sided) head. Hex bolts should not
be over-tightened because the threads of the bolts can be stripped. Do not use a hex driver that is too large for
the bolt that you are using.

CAUTION: If excessive force is needed to remove or add a component, something may be wrong. Take a
second look to make sure that you have not missed a screw or a locking clip that is holding the component in
place. Refer to the device manual or diagram for additional information.

CAUTION: Magnetized tools should not be used around electronic devices. Magnetic fields can be harmful
to data stored on magnetic media. Test your tool by touching the tool with a screw. If the screw is attracted to
the tool, do not use the tool.

CAUTION: Pencils should not be used inside the computer because the pencil lead can act as a conductor
and may damage the computer components.
Part retriever, Needle-nose pliers, or tweezers
The part retriever, needle-nose pliers, and tweezers can be used to place and retrieve parts that may be
hard to reach with your fingers. Do not scratch or hit any components when using these tools.

Proper Use of Cleaning Materials

Keeping computers clean inside and out is a vital part of a maintenance program. Dirt can cause problems
with the physical operation of fans, buttons, and other mechanical components. On electrical components, an
excessive buildup of dust will act like an insulator and trap the heat. This insulation will impair the ability of heat
sinks and cooling fans to keep components cool, causing chips and circuits to overheat and fail.

CAUTION: When compressed air is used to clean inside the computer, the air should be blown around the
components with a minimum distance of four inches from the nozzle. The power supply and the fan should be
cleaned from the back of the case.

CAUTION: Before cleaning any device, turn it off and unplug the device from the power
source.

Computer Cases and Monitors

Clean computer cases and the outside of monitors with a mild cleaning solution on a damp, lint-free cloth. Mix
one drop of dishwashing liquid with four ounces of water to create the cleaning solution. If any water drips
inside the case, allow enough time for the liquid to dry before powering on the computer.

LCD Screens
Do not use ammoniated glass cleaners or any other solution on an LCD screen, unless the cleaner is
specifically designed for the purpose. Harsh chemicals will damage the coating on the screen. There is no
glass protecting these screens, so be gentle when cleaning them and do not press firmly on the screen.

CRT Screens
To clean the screens of CRT monitors, dampen a soft, clean, lint-free cloth with distilled water and wipe the
screen from top to bottom. Then use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the screen and remove any streaking after you
have cleaned the monitor.
 Clean dusty components with a can of compressed air. Compressed air does not cause electrostatic
buildup on components. Make sure that you are in a well-ventilated area before blowing the dust out of the
computer. A best practice is to wear a dust mask to make sure that you do not breathe in the dust particles.

Blow out the dust using short bursts from the can. Never tip the can or use the compressed air can
upside down. Do not allow the fan blades to spin from the force of the compressed air. Hold the fan in place.
Fan motors can be ruined from spinning when the motor is not turned on.

Component Contacts
Clean the contacts on components with isopropyl alcohol. Do not use rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol
contains impurities that can damage contacts. Make sure that the contacts do not collect any lint from the cloth
or cotton swab. Blow any lint off the contacts with compressed air before reinstallation.

Keyboard
Clean a desktop keyboard with compressed air or a small, hand-held vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment.

CAUTION: Never use a standard vacuum cleaner inside a computer case. The plastic parts of the vacuum
cleaner can build up static electricity and discharge to the components. Use only a vacuum approved for
electronic components.

Mouse
Use glass cleaner and a soft cloth to clean the outside of the mouse. Do not spray glass cleaner directly on the
mouse. If cleaning a ball mouse, you can remove the ball and clean it with glass cleaner and a soft cloth. Wipe
the rollers clean inside the mouse with the same cloth. Do not spray any liquids inside the mouse.

Direction. Fill in the blanks. Write your answers on a separate sheet of paper.

1. The purpose of an antistatic wrist strap is to ________ the electrical charge between you and the

equipment.

2. Turn the screwdriver _________ to tighten the screw

3. Turn the screwdriver ________________ to loosen the screw.

4. Use a ________ head screwdriver with crosshead screws.

5. On electrical components, an excessive buildup of dust will act like an _________ and trap the heat.

6. When compressed air is used to clean inside the computer, the air should be blown around the components

with a minimum distance of ______ inches from the nozzle.

7. Pencils should not be used inside the computer to change the setting of switches or to pry off jumpers

because the tip contains _____ which can act as a conductor and may damage the computer components.

8. To clean the screens of CRT monitors, dampen a soft, clean, lint-free cloth with _______ water and wipe the

screen from top to bottom.

9. Clean the contacts on components with _________ alcohol.

10. Use a __________ to loosen and tighten bolts that have a hexagonal (six-sided) head.
Maintain hand tools
Information Sheet 1.1

TOOL AND EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE

All tools and equipment must be properly maintained so that workers are not endangered.
Regulations require inspections of tools, machines and equipment before use.
Preventive maintenance is the systematic care and protection of tools, equipment and
machines in order to keep them in a safe, usable condition, limit downtime and extend
productivity. We must always be aware that maintenance tasks themselves are potentially
hazardous and can result in injury. The successful maintenance program is:
• well organized and scheduled,
• controls hazards,
• defines operational procedures, and
• trains key personnel.
The degree of detail to include regarding tools and
equipment maintenance will depend on the kinds of
tools/equipment used. Some construction equipment
may have very specific inspection and maintenance
requirements. Electronic equipment may have
different maintenance requirements. Hand tools may
require only basic maintenance. Power tools should
be maintained in good working order. This may be
limited to ensuring that blades/bits are replaced
when needed and those guards or other safety
devices are operable and any damaged electrical
cords/plugs are repaired or replaced. Damaged or
defective equipment/tools should be tagged and
removed from service.
Most manufacturers can provide maintenance schedules for their equipment. Large
companies typically have a comprehensive maintenance program due to the capital
investment and/or leasing agreements. Smaller companies may lease equipment and
maintenance services may be included in the leasing agreement.
General requirements for tools and equipment maintenance include:
• Obtaining a copy of the maintenance schedule recommended by the manufacturer
• Ensuring that maintenance is performed as required
• Ensuring that the person(s) performing the maintenance are competent (e.g. licensed
mechanic)
• Retaining records of maintenance/service conducted
• Specifying who is responsible for overseeing equipment maintenance and where the
records are kept
• Set up a system for removal and tagging of damaged or defective tools and
equipment
PROPER STORAGE OF TOOLS, PARTS, AND EQUIPMENT
To ensure that tools and equipment remain in good condition and last for a long time, store
them properly. Properly stored tools and equipment will be easy to find when needed and
are less likely to be lost.
Good practices include:
• Parts should be properly stored and labeled (Figure 1).
• Tools should be properly placed on the board, and labeled (Figure 2). Consider
drawing the shapes of the tools on the board so that they always get put back in the
same position.
• Use bins for storing small parts (Figure 3).
• Consider making an individual (or individuals) responsible for the good maintenance
of tools and parts.
Direction. Write TRUE if the statement is correct and FALSE if it is wrong. Write your
answers on a separate sheet of paper.
1. All tools and equipment must be properly maintained so that workers are not
endangered.
2. Preventive maintenance is the systematic care and protection of tools,
equipment and machines in order to keep them in a safe, usable condition,
limit downtime and extend productivity.
3. The degree of detail to include regarding tools and equipment maintenance
will depend on the kinds of tools/equipment used.
4. Damaged or defective equipment/tools should be tagged and removed from
service.
5. Most manufacturers can provide maintenance schedules for their equipment.
6. Properly stored tools and equipment will be easy to find when needed and are
less likely to be lost.
7. Use bins for storing small parts is a good practice on proper storage.
8. Productivity is increased because time is not lost looking for tools, parts and
equipment is one of the benefits of proper storage.