Computer Maintenance and troubleshooting

Department: Cyber Security

 Module-1 : Personal Computers

 Module-2 : Laptop Computers
 Module-3 : Mobile Devices
 Module-4 : The Windows and Linux Operating System
 Module-5 : Mobile Device Connectivity
 Module-6 : Mobile OS and Security maintenance

BiT, Bahir Dar University

May , 2016E.C
Module-1: Personal computers and Laptops
A. Personal / Desktop Computers
In this module, you will learn about all the components that make up a PC, starting with the case that
houses all of the internal components. Computers, components, and peripherals all contain hazards that
can cause severe injury. Therefore, this module begins with safety guidelines that you should follow to
prevent electrical fires, injuries, and fatalities while working inside a computer. You will also learn about
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) and how it can damage computer equipment if not discharged properly

In this module, you will watch a demonstration of a computer disassembly so that you can become more
familiar with all of the components and how they are connected. We also provide instructions if you would
like to disassemble a computer of your own.

Additionally, you will watch detailed demonstrations of assembling a computer, from installing the power
supply, CPU, RAM, motherboard, adapter cards, cables, and external connectors. We also provide
instructions if you would like to assemble a computer of your own.

1. What Will You Learn in This Module?

Module Title: Personal Computers

Module Objective: Install components to safely build, repair, or upgrade personal computers.

Topic Title Topic Objective

General and Fire Safety Define general and fire safety standards.
Personal Computers and Safety Explain how to keep personal computer components safe.
Computer Disassembly Disassemble a PC.
Open the Case and Connect the Power Supply Connect the power supply.
Install Motherboard Components Install the motherboard components.
Install Drives and Adapter Cards Install the internal drives and adapter cards.
Install Cables and Complete Assembly Connect the computer components with appropriate
cables.

1.1. General and Fire Safety

These are the instruction to follow:

 Remove watches or jewelry

 Turn off and unplug equipment
 Remove clutter from workspace
 Cover sharp edges inside the computer
 Wear safety goggles
  Proper lifting procedures
 Fire extinguisher availability, rating, and use

1.2. Personal Computers and Safety

What is computer?
 Input device
 Output device
 Internal components

1.2.1. Electrical Safety

Follow electrical safety guidelines to prevent electrical fires, injuries, and fatalities. ⁠Some parts, such as
power supplies, contain high voltage. It is essential to check the printer manual for the location of high-
voltage components. Some components retain a high voltage even after being turned off.

Electrical devices have specific power requirements—for example, AC adapters manufactured for
particular laptops. Exchanging AC adapters with different types of devices may cause damage to both the
AC adapter and the device.

Electric equipment must be grounded. If a fault causes metal parts of the equipment to become live with
electrical current, the ground will provide a path of least resistance for the current to flow harmlessly
away. Typically computer products connect to the ground via the power plug—large equipment such as
server racks that house network devices must also be grounded.

1.2.2. ESD

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can occur when a buildup of an electric charge (static electricity) exists on a
surface that comes into contact with another, differently charged surface. ESD can cause damage to
computer equipment if not discharged properly. To prevent equipment damage and data loss, follow
proper handling guidelines, be aware of environmental issues, and use equipment that stabilizes power.

At least 3,000 volts of static electricity must build up before a person can feel ESD. For example, static
electricity can build up as you walk across a carpeted floor. When you touch another person, you both
receive a shock. If the discharge causes pain or makes a noise, the charge is probably above 10,000 volts.
Less than 30 volts of static electricity can damage a computer component. Static buildup discharges by
touching a grounded object before touching any electronic equipment, also known as self-grounding.

1.0.ESD
ESD can cause permanent damage to electrical components. Follow these recommendations to help
prevent ESD damage:

 Keep all components in antistatic bags until you are ready to install them.
 Use grounded mats on workbenches.
 Use grounded floor mats in work areas.
 Apply antistatic wrist straps when working inside computers.

1.3. Computer Disassembly

Technician’s Toolkit
 Anti-static Wrist Strap and Mat
 Compressed Air
 Extraction Tool
 Philips Head Screwdriver
 Torx Driver
 Cable Tester
 Crimpers
These computer maintenance tools were specifically designed to service and maintain a wide variety of
computer related peripherals and components. Every one of the 87 name brand tools in this kit was
chosen for its usefulness in servicing PCs, workstations, monitors, modems, mainframes and even
printers. Equipped with this powerhouse kit, you'll be ready to handle any type of computer system
failure.

 Wera's ergonomic handled, laser etched bite tip steel screwdrivers

 Field Service Kit - prevent circuit damage from electrostatic discharges.
 Monitor Alignment Set - adjust monitors with these safe plastic tools.
 Telephone Line Tester - quickly establish line condition before testing modems.
 Keyboard Key Puller - make repairs without damaging keys.
 RS-232 Pin Extractor - replace bent or broken cable pins.
 DB-25 Gender Changers - eliminate time wasting cable incompatibilities.
 ESD Grounding Plug and Outlet Tester - test wall outlets then use as an ESD ground point.
 4 Torx® Drivers - essential for these increasingly common fasteners.
 Inch & Metric Hex Key Sets - ball-end type for use up to a 25° angle.
 Strippers and Crimpers - for wiring and connector repairs.

1.3.1. Computer disassembly

a. Power off and disconnect the power supply
b. Disconnect the mouse and keyboard
c. Remove the case screws
d. Remove the SATA power and data cables
 e. Remove the hard drive.
f. Remove the optical drive.
g. Remove the adapter card.
h. Remove the power supply
i. Remove front panel connectors.
j. Remove the RAM.

1.4. Open the Case and Connect the Power Supply

Install the power supply

Step-1: Open the computer case.
Step-2: Align the screw holes on the power supply with the mount on the computer
Step-3: Screw the power supply into place.
1.5. Install Motherboard Components
1.5.1. Install the CPU
Step-1: orient the CPU to the CPU slot.
Step-2: Press the CPU into the CPU slot.
Step-3: Lock the CPU into place.
Step-4: Install the heatsink.
Step-5: Secure the heatsink.

1.5.2. Install the RAM

Step-1: Open the RAM slot levers.
Step-2: Orient the RAM chip to the motherboard slot
Step-3: Lower the RAM chip into the slot.
Step-4: Press down firmly to lock the RAM

1.5.3. Install the Motherboard

Step-1: Align the motherboard in the correct direction.
Step-2: Install standoffs in the computer case.
Step-3: Install standoffs in the computer case.
Step-4: Align I/O plate to back of computer case.
Step-5: Lower motherboard into place.
Step-6: Install the screws into the standoffs.

1.6. Install Drives and Adapter Cards

1.6.1. Hard Drive and Optical Drive
Hard Drive:
Step-1: Position the HDD so that it aligns with the drive bay opening. The power and
interface connectors should be facing out toward the motherboard.
Step-2: Insert the HDD into the drive bay so that the screw holes in the drive line up
with the screw holes in the case.
 Step-3: Secure the HDD to the case using the proper screws.

Optical Drive:
Step-1: from the front of the case, choose the drive bay that you want to hold the
drive. Remove the faceplate from the bay if necessary.
Step-2: Position the optical drive so that it aligns with the 5.25 inch(13.34cm.) drive
bay opening at the front of the case.
Step-3: insert the optical drive into the drive bay so that the optical drive screw holes
align with the screw holes in the case.
Step-4: Secure the optical drive to the case using the proper screws.

1.6.2. Install Adapter Cards

Step-1: Find an empty PCIe x 16 slot on the case and remove the small metal cover.
Step-2: Align the video adapter card to the appropriate expansion slot on the
motherboard.
Step-3: Press down gently on the video adapter card until it is fully seated.
Step-4: Secure the video adapter card mounting bracket to the case with the
appropriate screw.

1.7. Install Cables and Complete Assembly

1.7.1. Connect the Internal Power Cables
Step-1: Align the 24-pin ATX power connector to the socket on the motherboard. 12V
Step-2: Gently press down the connector until the clip clicks into place
Step-3: Align the 4-pin auxiliary power connector to the socket on the motherboard.
12v
Step-4: Gently press down on the connector until the clip clicks into place
Step-5: Align the CPU fan power connector to the socket on the motherboard.
Step-6: Gently press down on the connector until the clip clicks into place

Connect the SATA and fan power connectors

Step-1: Align the 15-pin SATA power connector to the port on the drive.
Step-2: Gently push in the connector until the connector is fully seated.
Step-3: Align the 3-pin or 4-pin fan power connector to the port on the motherboard.
Step-4: Gently press down on the connector until the connector is fully seated.

1.7.2. Connect the Internal Data Cables

Step-1: Align the SATA cable and plug one end into the motherboard socket.
Step-2: Align the other end of the SATA cable and plug it into the smaller SATA port
on the drive.

1.7.3. Install the Front Panel

Install the power supply:

 Step-1: Plug the power cable into the system panel connector in the location marked
PWR_SW.
Step-2: Plug the reset cable into the system panel connector in the location marked
RESET.
Step-3: Plug the power LED cable into the system panel connector in the location
marked PWR_LED.
Step-4: Plug the drive activity LED cable into the system panel connector in the
location marked HDD_LED.
Step-5: Plug the speaker cable into the system panel connector in the location
marked SPEAKER.
Step-6: Plug the USE cable into the USB connector.
Step-7: Plug the audio cable into the audio connector.

1.7.4. Complete the Computer Assembly

Step-1: Reattach the front panel(if necessary).
Step-2: Plug the power cable into the power supply.
Step-3: Orient and connect USB cables to USB ports.
Step-4: Orient and connect the video cable to the video port on the video adapter.
Step-5: Tighten the video cable screws to the video adapter.
Step-6: Connect the network cable to the Ethernet port.
Step-7: Connect the audio cables to the audio ports.
Step-8: Place the side panel cover onto the case and slide it closed.
Step-9: Tighten any screws to secure the side panel cover.
Module 2: Laptop Computers
B. Laptop

2. Why should you learn this module?

The first laptops were used primarily by business professionals who needed to access and enter data while
away from the office. Laptops have been limited compared to less expensive desktops due to expense,
weight, and limited capabilities. Improvements in technology have allowed the laptop to become
lightweight, powerful, and much more affordable. Because of this, laptops are found in just about every
setting today. Laptops run on the same operating systems as desktop computers and come with built-in
Wi-Fi, a webcam, a microphone, speakers, and ports to attach external components.

In this module, you will learn about laptops' internal and external features, how to configure them for
wireless connectivity, and standard preventive maintenance techniques.

What Will you Learn in This Module?

Module Title: Laptops

Module Objective: Explain the features and functions of laptops.

Topic Title Topic Objective

Laptop Components Describe the features of laptop components.

Laptop Wireless Configuration Explain how to configure wireless communication on laptops.

Preventive Maintenance for Laptops Explain common preventive maintenance techniques for laptops.

2.1. Laptop Components

Laptops are portable computers. They usually run full versions of operating systems such as Microsoft
Windows, MacOS or Linux.

Laptops can have the same computing power and memory resources as desktop computers. As shown in
the figure, laptops integrate a screen, keyboard, and a pointing device, such as a touchpad, in one portable
device. Laptops can be run from an internal battery or from an electrical outlet. They offer connectivity
options such as wired or wireless Ethernet networking and Bluetooth.

Laptops offer device connection options such as USB and HDMI. Laptops frequently have speaker and
microphone connections as well. Some laptops offer graphic connectivity using different types of graphics
standards, similar to desktops. However, in order to make laptops more portable, some peripheral
connection options may require additional hardware, such as a dock or port replicator.

In order to increase portability, laptops may sacrifice some of the advantages that are offered by desktop
computers. For example, laptops may not use the fastest processors available due to cooling concerns
and high power consumption. Laptop memory upgrades may be limited, and some types of laptop
memory are more expensive than comparable desktop memory. Laptops lack the expansion capability of
desktops as well. Special-purpose expansion cards and large volume storage often cannot be installed in
laptops. For example, upgrading the graphics subsystem in a laptop is likely to be impossible.

2.1.1. External Features unique to laptops

 LED
 Secure Digital multi-media card reader (SD-MMC)
 Ventilation grill
 Ports
 Security key hole
 PC card slot
 DVD-RW drive
 Ethernet and phone jacks
 Battery
 RAM access panel
 Wireless card access panel
 Hard drive access panel

2.1.2. Common Input Devices and LEDs in Laptops

 Video input and audio input devices
 Wireless network card
 Touchpad
 Keypad and Function keys
 Capacitive items
 LED lights
 Fingerprint scanner

2.1.3. Motherboard
The compact nature of laptops requires a number of internal components to fit in a small amount of space.
The size restrictions result in a variety of form factors for a number of laptop components, such as the
motherboard, RAM, CPU, and storage devices. Some laptop components, such as the CPU, may be
designed to use less power to ensure that the system can operate for a longer period of time when using
a battery source.

Desktop motherboards have standard form factors. The standard size and shape allow motherboards
from different manufacturers to fit into common desktop cases. In comparison, laptop motherboards vary
by manufacturer and are proprietary.

Desktop Motherboard Laptop Motherboard

When you repair a laptop, you must often obtain a replacement motherboard from the laptop
manufacturer. The figure shows a comparison between a desktop motherboard and a laptop
motherboard.

Because laptop motherboards and desktop motherboards are designed differently, components designed
for a laptop generally cannot be used in a desktop. Laptop and desktop designs are compared in the table.

Component Desktop Laptop

Motherboard form factor ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX, ITX Proprietary
Expansion slot PCI, PCI-X, PCIe, miniPCI Mini-PCI
RAM slot type DIMM SODIMM

2.1.4. Internal Components

Laptop internal components are designed to fit into the confined spaces of the laptop form factor.

 RAM
 CPUs
 SATA drives
 Solid-state drives

each laptop internal component for more information.

A. RAM

Because of the limited amount of space within laptops, memory modules are much smaller than those
used in desktops. Laptops use Small Outline Dual In-line Memory Modules (SODIMMs), as shown.
 B. CPUs

Laptop processors are designed to use less power and create less heat than desktop processors. As a
result, laptop processors do not require cooling devices that are as large as those found in desktops.
Laptop processors also use CPU throttling to modify the clock speed as needed to reduce power
consumption and heat. This results in a slight decrease in performance. These specially designed
processors allow laptops to operate for a longer period of time when using a battery.

Note: Refer to the laptop manual for compatible processors and for replacement instructions.
 C. SATA Drives

Laptop storage devices are 1.8 in. (4.57 cm.) or 2.5 in. (6.35 cm.) in width, while desktop storage devices
are typically 3.5 in. (8.9 cm.). The 1.8 in. drives are mostly found in ultraportable laptops because they are
smaller, lighter, and consume less power. However, their spin rate is usually slower than that of 2.5 in.
drives which have spin rates of up to 10000 RPMs.

There are several storage drive form factors and technologies used in laptops due to their compact size.
SATA 2.5 is a specification of SATA hard drive with a compact casing that enclosed 2.5 in. drive platter.
 D. Solid-State Drives

An M.2 drive, shown in the figure, is a very small form factor of solid-state drive about the size of a stick
of gum. It is very fast and designed for high performance in small, power-constrained devices. Another
very fast and compact solid-state drive standard is NVMe which has read and write speeds many times
faster than SATA drives.
 2.2. Laptop wireless Configuration

2.2.1. Bluetooth
The Bluetooth technical specification is described by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers (IEEE) 802.15.1 standard. Bluetooth devices are capable of handling voice, music,
videos, and data.
The distance of a Bluetooth personal area network (PAN) is limited by the amount of power used
by the devices in the PAN. Bluetooth devices are broken into three classifications, as shown in the
table below. The most common Bluetooth network is Class 2, which has a range of approximately
33 ft (10 m).

Five specifications of Bluetooth technology are capable of different transfer rates, ranges, and
power consumption, as shown in the table below.
Each subsequent version offers enhanced capabilities. For instance, Versions 1 – 3 are older technologies
with limited capabilities and high power consumption. Later versions such as Version 4 and 5 are geared
towards devices that have limited power and do not need high data transfer rates. Additionally, version 5
has four different data rates to accommodate a variety of transmission ranges.

Security measures are included in the Bluetooth standard. The first time that a Bluetooth device connects,
the device is authenticated using a PIN. This is known as pairing. Bluetooth supports both 128-bit
encryption and PIN authentication.

2.2.2. Bluetooth Laptop Connections

Windows activates connections to Bluetooth devices by default. If the connection is not active, look for a
switch on the front face or on the side of the laptop. Some laptops may have a special function key on the
keyboard to enable the connection. If a laptop does not feature Bluetooth technology, you can purchase
a Bluetooth adapter that plugs into a USB port.

Before installing and configuring a device, make sure that Bluetooth is enabled in the BIOS.

Turn on the device and make it discoverable. Check the device documentation to learn how to make the
device discoverable. Use the Bluetooth Wizard to search and discover Bluetooth devices that are in
discoverable mode.

2.2.3. Bluetooth Configuration

Bluetooth configuration on mobile device or laptop

Step-1: Manage Bluetooth through settings or add a device

Step-2: Pairing a device.

 In windows

Step-1: start button

Step-2: control panel

Step-3: Hardware and Sound , and then add device

Other method

Step-1: Settings

Step-2: Devices

Step-3: Add Bluetooth

2.2.4. Cellular WAN

Laptops with integrated cellular WAN capabilities require no software installation and no additional
antenna or accessories. When you turn on the laptop, the integrated WAN capabilities are ready to use.
If the connection is not active, look for a switch on the front face or on the side of the laptop. Some laptops
may have a special function key on the keyboard to enable the connection.

Many cell phones provide the ability to connect other devices. This connection, known as tethering, can
be made using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or by using a USB cable. Once a device is connected, it is able to use the
phone’s cellular connection to access the internet. When a cellular phone allows Wi-Fi devices to connect
and use the mobile data network, this is called a hotspot.

You can also access a cellular network by using a cellular hotspot device.
There are also wireless mini PCIe and M.2 adapters for laptops that can provide a combination of Wi-Fi,
Bluetooth, and/or cellular data (4G/LTE) connectivity. Some of these adapters will require the installation
of a new antenna kit which has wires that are usually routed around the screen in the laptop lid. When
installing an adapter card with cellular functionality a SIM will need to be inserted as well.

2.2.5. Wi-Fi
Laptops usually access the internet by using wireless adapters. Wireless adapters cab be built in to the
laptop or attached to the laptop through an expansion port. Three major types of wireless adapters are
used in laptops as shown in the table.
 2.2.6. Wifi Configuration
Step-1: Network and Sharing Center

Step-2: Connect to a wireless network

Step-3: Connection Options

Practically to do the above, follow the following steps:

Step-1: start button

Step-2: control panel

Step-3: click on Network and Internet

Step-4: and then on “Network and Sharing center” press “connect to a network”

2.3. Preventative Maintenance for Laptops

2.3.1. What Do You Already Know? - Preventive Maintenance Instructions

What Do You Already Know? is a type of activity in which we ask you to simply take a guess! It is not meant
to evaluate your knowledge. You will receive additional information for the answers that you choose, so
these activities also help you learn.

Choose whether the statement is true or false.

 Mobile devices are more likely than desktop computers to be exposed to harmful materials and
situations.
 Use ammonia or alcohol to clean touchscreens on mobile devices.
 Compressed air can be used to clean the cooling vents and fan on a laptop.
 A wet cloth should be used to clean mobile device touchpads.

2.3.2. The Reason for Maintenance

Because laptops and mobile devices are portable, you can use them in different environments. As a result,
they are more likely than desktop computers to be exposed to harmful materials and situations, including
dirt and contamination, spills, drops, excessive heat or cold, and excessive moisture. In a laptop, many
components are placed in small areas directly beneath the keyboard. Spilling liquid onto the keyboard can
result in severe internal damage. It is essential to keep a laptop clean. Proper care and maintenance can
help laptop components run more efficiently and extend the life of the equipment.
 2.3.3. Laptop Preventive Maintenance

A preventive maintenance program is vital in addressing such issues and must include a routine schedule
for maintenance and when usage demands it.

The preventive maintenance schedule for a laptop may include practices unique to a particular
organization but should also include standard cleaning procedures, hard drive maintenance, and software
updates.

To keep a laptop clean, be proactive, not reactive. Keep fluids and food away from the laptop and close it
when not used. Never use harsh cleaners or solutions containing ammonia when cleaning a laptop. Use
nonabrasive materials, including compressed air, mild cleaning solutions, cotton swabs, and a soft, lint-
free cloth.

Caution: Before you clean a laptop, disconnect it from all power sources and remove the battery.
Routine maintenance includes the monthly cleaning of these laptop components.

Exterior case: Wipe the case with a soft, lint-free cloth that is lightly moistened with water or mild cleaning
solution.

Cooling vents and I/O ports: Use compressed air or a non-electrostatic vacuum to clean out the dust from
the vents and from the fan behind the vent. Use tweezers to remove any debris.

Display: Wipe the display with a soft, lint-free cloth that is lightly moistened with a computer-screen
cleaner.

Keyboard: Wipe the keyboard with a soft, lint-free cloth that is lightly moistened with water or mild
cleaning solution.

Touchpad: Wipe the surface of the touchpad gently with a soft, lint-free cloth that is moistened with an
approved cleaner. Never use a wet cloth.
Module-3: Mobile Devices
3. Why Should You Take This Module?

A mobile device is any device that is hand-held, lightweight, and typically has a touchscreen for input. Like
a desktop or laptop computer, mobile devices use an operating system to run applications (apps) and
games and play movies and music. Mobile devices also have a different CPU architecture, designed to
have a reduced instruction set compared to laptop and desktop processors. With the increase in demand
for mobility, the popularity of laptops and other mobile devices continues to grow. This module focuses
on many features of mobile devices and their capabilities and preventive maintenance.

3.1. What Will You Learn in This Module?

Module Title: Other Mobile Devices

Module Objective: Explain the features and functions of other mobile devices.

Topic Title Topic Objective

Mobile Device Overview Describe the features of mobile devices.

Describe common mobile device hardware and preventive

Other Mobile Device Hardware
maintenance.

3.1.1. What Do You Already Know? - Mobile Devices

What Do You Already Know? is a type of activity in which we ask you to simply take a guess! It is not
meant to evaluate your knowledge. You will receive additional information for the answers that you
choose, so these activities also help you learn.

For each scenario, select the device that provides the best solution.

Smartwatch, Laptop, Tablet, Smartphone, E-reader

A. You are offline, but need to work with full copies of a spreadsheet and word processor program.
B. A woman is hiking in the park and does not have a smartwatch but wants to upload data from her
fitness tracker to the Internet.
C. A mother wants to keep her child entertained with a game while she talks to a friend on her
smartphone.
D. You want to read a book while you are at the beach but don't want to bring your more expensive
computing devices.
E. A sports fan leaves his smartphone at home but still wants to be alerted to the scores of some
football games while he is out jogging.

3.1.2. Mobility

Mobility in information technology means accessing information electronically from different locations
outside the home or office. Mobile connectivity is limited only by the availability of cellular or data
networks. Mobile devices have self-contained power in rechargeable batteries, are generally small and
lightweight, and do not rely on other connected peripheral devices, such as a mouse and keyboard, to
operate.

Examples of mobile devices are laptops (covered in the previous module), tablets, smartphones,
smartwatches, and wearables.

3.1.3. Smartphone Characteristics

Smartphones differ from laptops because they run unique operating systems designed for mobile devices.
Examples of these operating systems are Google's Android and Apple's iOS. Smartphones may have
limited OS upgradeability, so they can become out-of-date and require a purchase of a new phone to take
advantage of new features of the OS and apps that need a higher OS version. Smartphone software is
usually limited to apps that can download from stores such as Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Smartphones are very compact and powerful, with small touch keyboards on the screen. Smartphones
are limited to only one or two physical connection types, such as USB and headphones, and use cellular
connectivity options for voice, text, and data services. Other data connections include Bluetooth and Wi-
Fi.
 3.1.4. Smartphone Features

An additional feature of smartphones is location services. Most phones include global positioning system
(GPS) functionality. A GPS receiver in the phone uses satellites to determine the device's geographic
location. The GPS allows apps to use the device location for various purposes, such as social media
updates or receiving offers from nearby businesses. Some apps will enable a smartphone to act as a
navigational GPS that guides driving, biking, or walking. If the GPS is off, most smartphones can still
determine the location, in a less precise way, by using information from nearby mobile service antennas
or nearby Wi-Fi access points.

Another feature of some smartphones is the ability to "tether," or share, the cellular data connection with
other devices. The smartphone becomes a modem when other devices are configured to its cellular data
network over USB, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. Not all smartphone carriers permit tethering.
 3.1.5. Tablets and E-Readers

Tablets are similar to smartphones in that they use special mobile operating systems like Android or iOS.
However, most tablets do not have the ability to access cellular networks. Some higher-end models do
allow access to cellular services.

Unlike smartphones, tablets normally have larger touch-screen displays. The displays are often quite vivid
in their graphic rendering. Tablets usually offer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and most have USB and
audio ports. In addition, some tablets include GPS receivers that can be activated to provide location
services, similar to smartphones. Most of the apps that work on phones are also available for tablets.

E-readers, such as the Amazon Kindle, are special purpose devices with black and white displays that have
been optimized for reading text. Although they resemble tablets, they lack many of the features and
functions that tablets provide. Web access is limited to eBook stores that may be operated by the e-reader
manufacturer. Many have touch displays that make it easy to turn pages, change settings, and access
eBooks online. Many E-readers can store 1,000 or more books. For connectivity, some offer free cellular
data connections for downloading books from a specific store, but most rely on Wi-Fi. Bluetooth is also
available and supports headphones for audio books. E-reader battery life is usually longer than tablets, at
up 15 -20 hours of reading time or more.

3.1.6. Wearables: Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers

Wearables are smart devices that are meant to be worn on the body or attached to clothing. Two popular
wearables are smartwatches and fitness trackers.

Smartwatches

Smartwatches are a type of wearable that includes a microprocessor, a special operating systems, and
apps. Sensors in the smartwatch can gather data about various aspects of the body, such as heart rate,
and use Bluetooth to report this information back to another device, such as a smartphone. The
smartphone then forwards the information to an application over the internet for storage and analysis.
Some smartwatches can also connect directly to a cellular network, serve as convenient displays for
notifications from apps, can include GPS location services, and the ability to store and play music and
playlists.

Fitness Trackers

Fitness trackers are similar to smartwatches but are limited to monitoring the body such as physical
activity, sleep, and exercise. FitBit is a popular example that monitors heart rate and the number of steps
taken. Similar to fitness trackers are more sophisticated health monitoring devices that can detect heart
attacks, monitor air quality, and detect oxygen levels in the blood. These devices can deliver hospital-
quality data to healthcare practitioners.

3.1.7. Wearables: Augmented and Virtual Realities

In Augmented Reality (AR), computer graphics are integrated with what is seen in the real world, usually
through the device camera, as shown for the figure. The graphics overlays can range from cartoon
characters in a game application to information for emergency management training for first responders.
There are many potential uses for AR and it is one of the most promising areas for future product
development.
Related to AR is virtual reality (VR). In VR a user wears a special headset which displays graphics from a
separate computer, as shown in the figure. The graphics are immersive 3D and create very realistic worlds.
The VR user's motions are detected by sensors which allow the user to interact with and move around in
the virtual environment. VR is very popular in games but has applications in other fields such as education
and training.
 3.2. Other Mobile Device Hardware
3.2.1. Cell Phone Parts

Because of their small size, mobile devices usually do not have field-serviceable parts. Mobile devices
consist of several compact components integrated into a single unit. When a mobile device
malfunctions, it is usually sent to the manufacturer for repair or replacement.

The cell phone contains one or more of these field replaceable parts (FRPs): memory, a SIM card, and
a battery.

Select each cell phone FRP for more information.

Memory: A Secure Digital (SD) card is used to add memory to many mobile devices.

SIM Card: A subscriber identity module or SIM card is a small card that contains information used to
authenticate a device to mobile telephone and data providers. The card can also hold user data such
as personal contacts and text messages. Some phones can have two SIM cards installed and are called
a dual SIM device. This would allow a number for personal use and a number for professional use to
be received and sent from the same phone, for example. The DUAL SIM could also hold SIM cards
from different vendors.

Battery: Some mobile device batteries can be replaced like the battery shown outside the cell phone.
Be sure to check the battery for bulging and avoid placing the mobile device in direct sunlight.
 3.2.2. Cell Phone Wired Connectivity

Wired connectivity for mobile devices varies depending on the manufacturer and the age of the
device.

Select each type of mobile wired connectivity for more information.

A. Mini-USB Cable: A mini-USB cable is used to connect a mobile device to an electrical outlet charger
or to connect to another device in order to charge and/or transfer data.

B. USB-C Cable: A USB-C cable and port can be plugged in either direction. USB-C cables are used on
mobile devices to connect to an electrical outlet charger or to connect to another device such as a
smartphone to a laptop in order to charge and/or transfer data.

C. Micro-USB Cable: A micro-USB cable is used to connect a mobile device to an electrical outlet charger
or to connect to another device in order to charge and/or transfer data.
D. Lightning Cable: The Lightning cable is used to connect Apple devices to host computers and other
peripherals such as USB battery chargers, monitors, and cameras.

E. Proprietary: Proprietary or vendor-specific ports can be found on some mobile devices. These ports
are not compatible with other vendor ports, but often are compatible with other products from the
same vendor.

3.2.3. Wireless Connections and Shared Internet

Besides Wi-Fi, mobile devices also use the following wireless connections:

 Near field communication (NFC) - NFC enables mobile devices to establish radio communications
with other devices by placing them close together or touching them together.

 Infrared (IR) - If a mobile device is IR enabled, it can be used to control other IR controlled devices
remotely, such as a TV, set top box, or audio equipment.
 Bluetooth - This wireless technology allows data exchange over a short distance between two
Bluetooth-enabled devices or connect to other Bluetooth-enabled peripheral devices, such as
speakers or headphone.

A smartphone’s internet connection can be shared with other devices. There are two ways to share
the smartphone’s internet connection: tethering and mobile hotspot. The ability to share the
connection depends on the cellular carrier and the plan with the carrier.

 Tether - This uses your cellular phone as a modem for another device, such as a tablet or laptop.
The connection is made over a USB cable or Bluetooth.

 Mobile hotspot - A hotspot is where devices connect using Wi-Fi to share a cellular data
connection.

3.2.4. Mobile Device Preventive Maintenance

Mobile devices carried in a pocket or purse can be damaged by drops, excess moisture, heat, or
cold. While designed to prevent light scratching, the touchscreen of a mobile device should be
protected using a screen protector.

Preventive maintenance for mobile devices requires only three basic tasks: cleaning, backing up data,
and keeping the operating system and applications up to date.

 Cleaning - Use a soft, lint-free cloth and a cleaning solution designed for a touchscreen to keep
the touchscreen clean. Do not use ammonia or alcohol to clean the touchscreen.

 Backing up the data - Keep a backup copy of the information on the mobile device to another
source, such as a cloud drive. The data includes contacts, music, photos, video, apps, and
customized settings.
 Updating the system and applications - When a new version of the operating system or
applications is available, updates should occur to ensure that the device is working at its best. An
update can include new features, fixes, or improvements to performance and stability.