Ict Lab Manual 1
Ict Lab Manual 1
Computer Engineering
Faculty of Engineering & Applied Sciences
Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan
Two basic components make up a computer: hardware and software. You simply can’t have one
without the other. All computer parts that you can physically see or touch are called hardware.
Hardware includes the computer’s monitor, case, keyboard, mouse, and printer. Computer
programs that tell hardware how to operate are called software. You may have used software such
as Microsoft Excel, in the past. you don’t have to know how to program a computer to use one. A
computer programmer has already done the work for you by writing the program (software). All
you have to do is tell the software what you’re trying to do, and the software then directs the work
of the hardware.
Mouse Like the keyboard, the mouse is another input device that you use to
communicate with your computer.
Speaker Most computers can make sounds, just like a stereo system. In fact, you can
even listen to audio CD’s on most computers or watch DVDs.
Printer A printer is where a computer writes down information or output, onto
paper, or a hardcopy.
Basic Working Principle
Computers are not really as complicated as they initially seem. You just have to learn the basic
functions of the various parts, and then you can separate them into three categories:
• Input
Any device that lets you talk to the computer (such as a mouse or keyboard).
• Process/Storage
Main functions of a computer, which happen inside the computer case. Not surprisingly, the
Central Processing Unit (CPU) does all the processing; the storage function is handled by any
number of drives (hard, floppy, Zip, tape-backup, CD/DVD-ROM) or disks (compact discs or
floppy diskettes).
• Output
Any device that lets the computer talk to you (such as a monitor or speakers).
When you look at the back of a computer, you may feel a bit overwhelmed by all the slots and
holes. Fortunately, manufacturers have added some fairly standard icons and color coding to help
you identify what should be plugged into your computer and where. Before long, you’ll recognize
those icons and colors, and the configuration won’t seem so mysterious. It’s rather like hooking
up cable and a DVD player to the back of your television.
Lab Task
Task 1:
a. Open the computer case (or refer to a diagram, if physical access isn’t available).
b. Identify the following components and describe their purpose:
o Motherboard
o Power Supply Unit (PSU)
o CPU (Central Processing Unit)
o RAM (Random Access Memory)
o Hard Drive or SSD
o Expansion Slots (e.g., PCI, PCIe)
o Graphics Card (if any)
o Cooling Fan
c. Draw a simple labeled diagram of the internal system unit with all major components.
Task 2:
a. Look at the back and front of the system unit. List all the ports and connectors you
find.
b. Identify and describe the following ports (if available):
o USB Ports (Type A, Type C)
o HDMI Port
o VGA Port
o Ethernet Port (RJ45)
o Audio Jacks (Headphone, Microphone)
o DisplayPort
o Power Connector
o PS/2 Ports (for older keyboard/mouse)
c. Research what each port is used for and provide an example of a device that connects
to it.