UNIT - V

1. Explain different Computer Hardware parts.

Ans: The Physical parts of the computer that we can see and
touch are known as computer hardware. Computer Software is
just like the human soul, which can not be touched and
computer hardware is like body which we can see and touch.
Motherboard :
- This is the part of the computer where everything is
placed or connected to. It holds the slots and ports
where the other parts will be attached.
- When upgrading or buying a motherboard make sure it
contains the most recent slots and ports to ensure that
you will not limited in the kind of parts you install into
it.
- Example there are two kinds of ports for a CD/DVD
drive and hard disk drive. It can be the earlier IDE or a
SATA port. Some motherboards can carry both IDE and
SATA during the period where SATA is still new.

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Processor :
- This is the "brain" of the computer because it does
necessary computations and logical operations to run a
program.
- At the moment of writing the most known processors
brands are Intel and AMD. Intel are best for office and
desktop publishing work while AMD is best for gaming.

RAM :
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- This means Random Access Memory and is responsible

for becoming temporary storage for use by actively
running programs and processes of a computer.
- generally the higher the RAM the more programs you
can run at the same time but the processor would play a
big part two in determining if these programs will run
smoothly.
- RAM comes in sizes of 512kb, 1GB, 2GB, 4GB and
8GB. Usually there are only two slots available so if
you hear that they are selling a computer with 3GB of
RAM then it is most likely composed on a 2GB and
1GB sticks of RAM.
- typically a laptop RAM would come also in smaller
size.

Hard Disk Drive :

- The programs, files and pictures are stored in a hard
disk drive.
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- It comes in either with a SATA port or an IDE port, the

latter being the older model.
- SATA allows much higher capacity of data that can be
transferred with also a much slimmer cables to be used.
- Desktop hard disk drives are about 3.5 inches while
laptop hard disk drives are 2.5 inches.
- It comes in storage sizes of 80GB, 120GB, 160GB,
240GB, 320GB, 640GB, 1TB, 2TB, 3TB etc.
- Please note that if you get a 640GB it doesn't equally
mean to be 640GB exactly. It may fall off a few
kilobytes because the conversion is not exact. 1024
bytes = 1kilobytes (KB), 1024 KB = 1 Megabyte (MB),
1024 MB = 1 Terabyte (TB), 1024 TB = 1 Gigabyte
(GB).

CD / DVD Drive :
- This is where you put your CDs and DVDs so you can
view their content inside the computer.
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- If you get one with a write feature it can also be used to

back-up or save data from your computer into a CD /
DVD. The CD and DVD you must though must also be
Writable.
- Like the hard disk drive it can also be either for a SATA
or IDE port, the latter being the older model.
- A desktop can carry as many as 3 CD-DVD drives at
the same time depending on the number of bays which
can be carried by the case used however for a laptop
there is only one CD-DVD drive available, sometimes
none at all like with netbooks.

Internal CD/DVD drive External CD/DVD drive

Video Card :
- They are expansion cards which allows to creates the
images to be displayed out to the monitor.
- Motherboards nowadays have their on-board video and
this would share memory from the RAM but some more
advanced boards would have their dedicated memory
even if it is on-board specially with laptops.
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- You may consider using a video card instead of an on-

board video if you wish to run more power hungry
graphics like for computer games and multimedia
editing.
- Be careful not just to buy any kind of video card and
always check what your motherboard can handle are
there now several lots types for use on video cards. The
latest now are PCIs.

2. Discuss about Cataloging and Purchasing the parts

of a computer.
Ans: 1. Choosing an OS:
Before you get started choosing your parts, you should
decide what operating system suits you best (i.e., Windows,
Linux or OS X). However consider that Linux and OS X tend
to run faster than windows on slower computers, so they are
the best choice for a low end PC. If you are building a "hackin
- tosh" a non-apple computer that runs OS X then you will be
limited to the parts that it is compatible with.
2. The Magic Tool:
When planning your build PC PartPicker is an
invaluable asset. It has nearly every PC component listed,
with review, prices and specifications. It has slots for each
component in your build, and will only allow you to choose
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parts that are compatible with other parts. It analyzes the sites
of major distributors to find you the best price. Most
importantly, they have sample builds for a range of different
types of computers.
3. Seeking Advice:
There is no reason to go it alone when you build your
computer. There are many sites and You Tube hosts who
review and suggest components. Some of them are explained
as follows:
i) Tech of Tomorrow: A useful site for reviews and
deals on computer components and sample system builds.
ii) Overlock.net: A forum for asking specific questions
related to hardware selection, building, and over clocking.
iii) Tom's Hardware: Offers a forum and credible
reviews for a wide range of hardware products.
iv) Newegg: A retailer for computer components that
offers detailed specifications, customer reviews, and
professional reviews on most of their popular products.
4. Bottle-necking:
A computer is said to be "bottle necked" when one or
more of its parts are preventing the rest from operating to their
full capacity. Because components are interdependent, each
one must be comparable in speed. Bottle necking takes
knowledge to avoid and cannot be detected by PC PartPicker
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or another tool. One way to avoid this is to balance the

budget.
5. Purchasing the Parts:
When you go to a specialty retail store, you will be able
to find a better deal than purchasing the parts through online.
Especially if you buy more than a few parts and are willing to
bargain, most small chain or individual stores will give you a
deal. This is one of the reason why building a PC is cheaper
than buying a pre built.
6. Warranties:
Just as an individual computer is warrantied by a
retailer, individual components are often warrantied by their
manufacturers. In general warranties cover any defects that
existed when the product was shipped, not problems induced
by other components or spilled coffee. Sometimes, if you are
with in the return period of a component from a retailer, they
will replace it if it is defective.
7. Upgrading Your Computer:
Consumer technology is a fast-paced industry, and
Computer components tend to rapidly depreciate in value. A
PC you buy or build now will be almost worthless a few years
down the road. In the same way that many people periodically
buy a laptop. Builders often will start from scratch every few
years instead of slowly upgrading their computer.
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8. Computer Hardware Check List:

a) CPU b) CPU Cooler (optional)
c) Motherboard d) RAM
e) Storage: HDD/SSD f) GPU: Integrated or Graphics Card
g) Case h) Optical Drive (optional)
i) Power Supply j) Display
k) Key board & l) Speakers (optional)
mouse

3. Explain how to Assemble the computer system.

Ans:
Step 1: Procuring Parts
First you will need to buy the parts necessary to build
the computer. The parts we will use to build computer are
given below:
1. Processor (CPU)
2. Computer Case
3. Optical Drive (DVD RW and SATA capable)
4. Memory (RAM)
5. Power Supply
6. SATA Cables
7. Motherboard (SATA Capable)
8. Processor Fan
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9. Case Fan
10. Hard Drive (SATA Capable)
Step 2: Gather Tools and Supplies
Gather the tools you will need to assembly the computer:
Screwdriver (for slotted and Phillips head screws)
Wire cutters and strippers
Utility knife
Small container to hold screws
Step 3: Open The Case
Open the computer case by removing the side panels.
Find the screws that hold the side panels in place and remove
them.
Step 3: Prepare the Case for Assembly
Three things need to be done before assembly begins:
Remove any parts or packaging materials that may have been
shipped inside the case.
Remove the cover for the optical drive. On our case, we will
be removing the cover on the highest drive bay to mount our
DVD drive.
Make note of the cables pre-installed in the case. These
should be front panel connections for features such as the
power switch, audio jacks and usb ports.
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Step 4: Install Motherboard

Follow these steps to install the motherboard in the case:

1. Install the I/O bezel plate into the opening in the back of
the case (figure 14). It pushes in from the inside.
2. Install standoffs in the case. The standoffs screw into
the motherboard mounting holes shown in figure 14.
Check the screw hole locations on the motherboard for
exact placement.
3. Lower the motherboard into the case and align with the
I/O bezel.
4. Install the screws.
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Step 5: Install Hard Drive

The hard drive is the device that stores all of your data.
It is 3.5" wide and needs to be mounted so that you can gain
access to the cable connections on the back. To mount the
drive:
1. Find a 3.5" drive bay to install the drive in. If you have
trouble finding a place to mount the drive consult your
case documentation for suggestions.
2. Slide the drive into place until the screw holes on the
sides are lined up with the holes in the case.
3. Install the screws.
Step 6: Install Optical Drive
The optical drive is 5.25" wide and is installed in the
drive. To install the drive:
1. Slide the drive into the drive bay until the screw holes
are lined up and the front of the drive is flush with the
front of the case (figure 18). Make sure that it is
orientated correctly.
2. Install the screws.
Step 7: Install the CPU
The CPU is the brain of the computer. It is installed on
the motherboard in the socket. To install the CPU:
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1. Find the corner marking that designates pin 1 of the

CPU. On Intel/AMD brand processor, the corner is
marked with an arrow.
2. Lift the small metal rod next to the socket.
3. Find the corresponding marking on the CPU socket and
insert the CPU so that the markings are lined up.
4. Push the rod down to lock the processor.
Step 8: Install RAM
The RAM is the temporary memory location that the
processor works from. Permanently stored data is pulled from
disks and stored in RAM while the processor works with it.
The memory is easy to install:
1. Set the RAM board in the socket. Check to see that the
notch in the board is in the correct location. If it is not,
turn it around 180º.
2. Press firmly on both ends of the board to set it into the
socket.
Step 9: Install The CPU Fan
The CPU fan is really a combination of a heat sink and
fan together. The unit draws heat away from the CPU. To
install the fan:
1. Place thermal compound to the CPU following the
instructions provided with the compound.
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2. Set the fan assembly on the CPU with mounting tabs

aligned.
3. Pull the locking rod down on the fan assembly to lock
into place.
4. Connect the fan assembly's power connector to the
motherboard. Consult the manual to determine proper
placement.
Step 10: Install Power Supply
Consult your case documentation for details and then
follow these directions to install the power supply:
1. Align the mounting holes in the case and power supply.
2. Insert screws and tighten.
Step 11: Connect Cables
With all of the components installed in the case, the
jungle of wires can be daunting. It is important to consult the
motherboard manual in order to make sure proper connections
are made. There are two kinds of connections, power and
data.
Step 12: Wrap-up
Now that the components are completely installed, the
last thing to do is to reinstall the side panels on the case. The
computer is now ready to be turned on and to have software
loaded on it. If the computer has problems starting up, check
all component connections and mounting to make sure that
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you have hooked everything up correctly. Consult individual

component manuals for specific troubleshooting information
if problems persist.

4. Discuss about the first boot.

Ans: When doing the First Boot plug the monitor into your
video port of choice, the PSU into the wall (using the wire
from its box), and the peripherals (key board and mouse) into
the USB ports. Press the power button and hope for the best.
Some text should appear on the screen with some general
system specs, and if no significant errors are displayed then
you are ready to install the operating system.
How to Trouble Shoot:
If you have a diagnosable error on the screen then go
ahead and Google it, or attempt to fix it yourself (turn off the
computer first). Also, check inside the case for any yellow or
red LEDS, that might be trying to warn you of an error. If you
see a red light beside the component
1. Wiggle the component or cable to make sure it's seated
properly and
2. Make sure everything looks operational in the area.
When Things Start Beeping:
The computer runs a self-test when it boots to make sure
all is in order. If it starts beeping and won't continue, that is
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the first sign of a problem. Restarts the computer if the

beeping persists then consult the beep codes for your
motherboard's specific Basic Input-Output System (BIOS).
Check the motherboard manual if you are unsure.

5. Discuss about Installing Software.

Ans: The Operating System: When assembled a computer
and hooked up the peripherals. We can't use it yet. First we
must install an operating system, which you should have
chosen by now. This guide will go through the process of
installing windows operating.
1. Purchase Windows OS in compatible version from your
local retailer in disc format
2. Turn the computer on and insert the disc in to your
optical drive. Wait for it to be recognized and press
enter, be patient while it loads
3. Select your language and click install
4. Enter the product key on the package
5. Agree to the terms and condition. Press "Custom"
6. It should find the drive that was installed. If you have
more than one storage device, select the one where want
Windows to be installed (usually the faster one).
7. Click Next and wait… it could take a while
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8. Personalize your PC with a color scheme and a

password.
Drivers:
Windows (or another OS) has already given you the
basic drivers for your components. But to get the most out of
your motherboard and graphics card you will need the up-to-
date driver from the manufacturer. In the motherboard box,
there should be a CD that is labeled as "drivers" or something
similar. Do not use it. It is usually out of date. Instead, check
if it lists a website where you can get the newest drivers. Go
to that website on your PC and follow the instructions. If you
have an AMD or Nvidia graphics card, you can get the drivers
from their websites.
Over Clocking:
Over clocking is the way to get the most out of your
components. It allows you to change the clock speed of your
CPU, graphics card and RAM to be faster than the factory
defaults. The downside is that over clocking will cause your
components to heat up and could void your warranty if
something breaks. It should only be considered if your case
has good airflow and you are willing to assume the risk of
tinkering with you components. Different programs are used
for different components and are usually company specific.
For example, MSI after burner or sapphire trixx are the most
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popular for AMD graphics cards, while AI suite is used for

ASUS motherboards. Before you over clock, investigate over
clocking in general, and how well your specific components
respond to being over clocked.
6. Write a short notes on Maintenance of Computer.
Ans: The following are different processes in maintaining a
computer.
1. Cleaning:
The dust that pollutes your computer builds up little by
little and covers the components. This can hinder their
performance and can be seriously harmful if left unchecked.
You should open and clean your computer every four to five
months. Unplug your computer, open the case, and use a rag
and a hand held vacuum to clean in and around your
components. If the case has removable dust shields, slide
them out, wash them with water dry them thoroughly and
reinstall.
2. Disk Defragmentation:
The data on your hard drive is store in a physical
location. When you delete files, it creates 'gaps' in the data
overtime, these gaps become so frequent that your data is
separated and spread out across the drive. Disk defragmenting
will localize your data to one spot on the drive, so the head
doesn't have to move as far, or as often, improving
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performance. To defragment on Windows 7 or 8, search "Disk

Defragmenter" or "Defragment your hard drive" respectively.
Select the disc, click analyzes and it will tell you how
fragmented it is. If it's above two percent, you should
probably click "Optimize" or "defragment" to defragment the
disc. Note that this is only for mechanical hard drivers, not for
SSDS. In fact, it is often said that defragmenting an SSD will
shorten its operational life time.