ITE PC v40 Chapter11

Chapter 11:
Advanced Personal
Computers
IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software v4.0
ITE PC v4.0
Chapter 11 © 2007 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco Public 1
Purpose of this Presentation
To provide to instructors an overview of Chapter 11:
 List of chapter objectives
 Overview of the chapter contents, including
student worksheets
student labs
some potential student misconceptions
 Reflection/Activities for instructors to complete to
prepare to teach
 Additional resources
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Chapter 11 Objectives
 11.1 Give an overview of field, remote, and bench
technician jobs
 11.2 Explain safe lab procedure and tool use
 11.3 Describe situations requiring replacement of
computer components
 11.4 Upgrade and configure personal computer
components and peripherals
 11.5 Identify and apply common preventive
maintenance techniques for personal computer
components
 11.6 Troubleshoot personal computer components and
peripherals
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Chapter 11 Worksheets and Labs
 11.1 Worksheet: Job Opportunities
 11.3.7 Worksheet: Research Computer Components
 11.4.1 Lab: Install a NIC
 11.4.3 Lab: Install Additional RAM
 11.4.4 Lab: BIOS File Search
 11.4.5 Lab: Install, Configure, and Partition a Second
Hard Drive
 11.6.3 Lab: Repair Boot Problem
 11.6.3 Remote Technician: Repair Boot Problem
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Personal Computers
 A technician should be able
to determine if a component
for a customer's computer
should be upgraded or
replaced.
 A technician should develop
advanced skills in these
areas:
Installation procedures
Troubleshooting techniques
Diagnostic methods for
computers.
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Computer Technicians
When training to become a computer technician, develop
the following skills:
 Building and upgrading computers
 Performing installations
 Installing, configuring, and optimizing software
 Performing preventive maintenance
 Troubleshooting and repairing computers
 Communicating clearly with the customer
 Documenting customer feedback and the steps involved in
finding the solution to a problem
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Field, Remote, and Bench Technicians
 A field technician needs troubleshooting skills
and customer service skills, because they work
on-site, are in regular contact with customers and
work on a wide variety of hardware and software.
 A remote technician may work at a help desk

answering calls or e-mails from customers who
have computer problems and need good
communication skills.
 A bench technician may not work directly with

customers. Bench technicians are often hired to
perform computer warranty service in a central
depot or work facility.
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Safety Rules
 Keep work area clean and free of clutter.
 Keep food and drinks out of work area.
 Never open a computer monitor without proper training.
 Remove all your jewelry and watches.
 Make sure the power is off and the power plug has been
removed.
 Do not look into laser beams located in equipment.
 Make sure there is a fire extinguisher and first aid kit
available.
 Cover sharp edges with tape when working inside computer
case.
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Safe Working Environments
Always follow these basic rules:
 Use antistatic mats and pads to reduce the chance of
ESD damaging your equipment.
 Store hazardous or toxic materials in a secured cabinet.
 Keep the floor clear of anything that might trip someone.
 Clean work areas on a regular basis.
Follow local codes and government rules whenever
disposing of batteries, solvents, computers, and
monitors.
 What are some of the documents that describe work
safety codes and standards in your country?
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Proper Tools
 Use proper tools to work safely and prevent damage to
the computer equipment.
Various screwdrivers Small dust brush
TORX screwdriver Soft, lint-free cloth
Tweezers or part retriever Cable ties
Needle-nosed pliers Scissors
Wire cutters Small flashlight
Chip extractor Electric tape
Hex wrench set Pencil or pen
Nut driver, large and small Compressed air
Three-claw component holder Antistatic wrist strap
Digital multimeter Antistatic mat
Wrap plugs Antistatic bag
Small mirror Cleaning products
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High Voltage Computer Components
The following dangerous, high-voltage computer
components should only be serviced by authorized
personnel:
 Power supplies - Most broken or used power supplies are
replaced.
 Display monitors - The internal electronic parts of a display
monitor cannot be repaired, but they can be replaced.
 Laser printers - It is more cost effective
to fix broken printers by repairing or
replacing broken parts. Laser printers
use high voltages and may have very
hot surfaces inside.
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Environmental Issues
 A computer recycling
warehouse is a place where
discarded computer
equipment can be taken apart.
 Computer parts that are still
usable can be recycled for
repairing other equipment.
 Many organizations have
policies that define disposal
methods for the hazardous
components found in
electronic equipment.
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Computer Replacement Components
Situations that require the replacement of computer
components include the repair of broken parts or an
upgrade for functionality.
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Select a Case and Power Supply
 Determine the customer's needs
before making any purchases or
performing upgrades.
 The computer case holds the power
supply, motherboard, memory, and
other components.
 When purchasing a new computer
case and power supply separately,
ensure that all of the components
will fit into the new case and that the power supply is
powerful enough to operate all of the components.
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Select a Motherboard
 When you select a replacement motherboard, make sure
it supports the CPU, RAM, video adapter, and other
adapter cards.
 The socket and chip set on the motherboard must be
compatible with the CPU.
 The motherboard must accommodate the existing heat
sink/fan assembly.
 The existing power supply must have connections that fit
the new motherboard.
 The number and type of expansion slots
must match the existing adapter cards.
 The new motherboard must physically
fit into the current computer case.
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Select CPU and Heat Sink/Fan Assembly
Replace the CPU when it fails or is no longer adequate
for the current applications.
Make sure the CPU is compatible with the existing
motherboard:
 The new CPU must use the same socket type and chip set.
 The BIOS must support the new CPU.
 The new CPU may require a different heat sink/fan
assembly.
 Make sure the correct voltage is maintained.
 Use manufacturers' websites to investigate the compatibility
between CPUs and other devices.
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Select RAM
 New RAM may be needed when an application locks
up or the computer displays frequent error messages.
 When selecting new RAM,
check the compatibility with
the current motherboard.
 The speed of the new RAM
must be the same or faster
than the existing RAM.
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Select Adapter Cards
 Adapter (or expansion) cards, add extra functionality to
a computer. Before purchasing an adapter card, check:
Is there an open expansion slot?
Is the adapter card compatible with the open slot?
 If the motherboard does not have

compatible expansion slots,
external devices may be an option:
Are USB or FireWire versions of the
external device available?
Does the computer have an open USB
or FireWire port?
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Scenario: Adapter Card Upgrade
 A customer requires a wireless card to connect to the
network.
Investigate wireless NICs before you purchase one.
3. Is the new wireless NIC compatible with the 802.11 wireless
standard (a, b, or g) used on the wireless network?
4. Does the computer have an available expansion slot or an
open USB port?
5. Identify which adapter cards are compatible?
6. Now, consider cost, warranty, brand name, and availability
to select one of the compatible adapter cards for purchase.
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Hard Drive Failures
The signs that a hard drive is failing and should be
replaced as soon as possible:
 Unusual noises
 Error messages
 Corrupt data or
applications
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Hard Drive Connectors
 PATA (Parallel ATA) hard drives
Originally, called ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment).
With the introduction of SATA, ATA was renamed to PATA.
Can use a 40-pin / 80-conductor cable or a 40-pin / 40-conductor
cable.
 SATA (Serial ATA) hard drives
Connect to the motherboard using a serial interface.
Have a higher data-transfer rate than PATA drives.
Smaller data cable allows for improved airflow.
 SCSI (Small Computer Systems Interface) hard drives
More advanced interface controller than PATA or SATA.
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Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI)
 Usually used for hard drives and for tape storage
 Ideal for high-end computers,
including network servers that
require high transfer speeds
and reliability
 SCSI devices are connected in
a series, forming a chain that is
called a daisy chain.
 Each end of the daisy chain is
terminated to prevent signal
reflections and interference.
 Most SCSI buses can handle a total of seven devices and a
SCSI controller.
 Each device must have a unique SCSI ID.
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SCSI Types
Also Maximum
SCSI Type Connector
Called Throughput
50-pin
SCSI-1 5 MBps
Centronics 50-pin
50-pin
Fast SCSI Plain SCSI 10 MBps
Centronics 50-pin
50-pin
Fast Wide SCSI 20 MBps
68-pin
Ultra SCSI Fast-20 50-pin 20 MBps
Ultra Wide SCSI 68-pin 40 MBps
Ultra2 SCSI Fast-40 50-pin 40 MBps
68-pin
Ultra2 Wide SCSI 80 MBps
80-pin
68-pin
Ultra3 SCSI Ultra-160 160 MBps
80-pin
68-pin
Ultra320 SCSI 320 MBps
80-pin
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Select Input and Output (I/O) Devices
 An input device transfers information into a computer:
Mouse, keyboard, scanner, camera, process control sensor, MIDI
interface, and microphone
 An output device transfers information out of a computer:

Display monitor, projector, printer, process-control equipment,
and speaker
1. Find out what the customer wants

2. Research possible solutions
3. Determine which devices the customer needs
4. Determine how to connect the devices to the computer
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Types of I/O Device Interfaces
 USB 1.1
Transfers data up to 12 Mbps
 USB 2.0
Transfers data up to 480 Mbps
 IEEE 1394 (FireWire)
Transfers data at 100, 200, or 400 Mbps
 Parallel (IEEE 1284)
Transfers data up to 3 MBps
 Serial (RS-232)
Early versions: less than 20 Kbps. Now: up to 1.5 Mbps
 SCSI (Ultra-320 SCSI)
Connects as many as 15 devices at 320 MBps
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Upgrade Components and Peripherals
Computer systems need
periodic upgrades:
 User requirements change
 Upgraded software packages
require new hardware
 New hardware offers
enhanced performance
Research the effectiveness
and cost for both upgrading
and replacing.
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Upgrade and Configure Motherboards
1. Work on an antistatic mat and wear a wrist strap.
2. Note where and how everything is connected before you
start the upgrade.
3. Move the CPU and heat sink/fan assembly to the new
motherboard.
4. Use thermal compound between the CPU and the heat
sink.
5. If new, different RAM is required, install it at this time.
6. Remove the cables from the motherboard that attach to
the case LEDs and buttons.
7. Make sure to use the correct screws.
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Upgrade and Configure Motherboards
1. Connect the power supply cables.
2. Connect the cables for the case LEDs and buttons.
3. Install and secure all expansion cards.
4. Make sure there are no loose parts or leftover wires.
5. Connect a keyboard, mouse, monitor, and power.
6. Use the documentation that came with the motherboard
to learn what BIOS adjustments may be required.
CAUTION: If there is any sign of trouble, shut the power
supply off immediately.
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Upgrade and Configure CPU
 CAUTION: Always work on an antistatic mat and wear
a wrist strap when installing and removing CPUs.
 Remove the existing CPU by releasing it from the
socket using the zero insertion
force lever.
 Insert the new CPU into place.
 Excessive force may damage
the CPU or its socket.
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Upgrade and Configure Heat Sink/Fan
Assembly
 The heat sink/fan assembly must:
physically fit the CPU
be compatible with the CPU socket.
be adequate to remove the heat of the faster CPU
CAUTION: You must apply thermal compound between

the new CPU and the heat sink/fan assembly.
 With some types of BIOS, you can view thermal
settings to determine if there are any problems with the
CPU and the heat sink/fan assembly.
 Third-party software applications can report CPU
temperature information in an easy to read format.
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Upgrade and Configure RAM
CAUTION: Work on an antistatic mat. Wear a wrist strap.
2. Remove the existing RAM by freeing retaining clips that
secure it. Pull it from the socket.
3. Insert the new RAM, and lock it into place with the
retaining clips.
4. The RAM should be
discovered by the
system.
5. If the BIOS does not
indicate the presence
of the correct amount
of RAM, troubleshoot.
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Upgrade and Configure BIOS
Motherboard manufacturers periodically release updates for
their BIOS. Read release notes for description of upgrade.
 “Flashing the BIOS" is upgrading the BIOS with new EEPROM, or
flash memory.
 To view the current BIOS settings, enter the BIOS setup program.
Press the setup sequence keys (possibly F1, F2, or Del key) while the
computer is performing the power-on self test (POST).
 If you are unsure about changing a BIOS setting, then research the
problem in depth.
 To download a new BIOS, go to the manufacturer's website and
follow the installation procedures.
CAUTION: An improperly installed or aborted BIOS update can
cause the computer to become unusable.
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Upgrade and Configure Storage Devices and
Hard Drives
Reasons for installing an additional drive:
 To install a second operating system
 To provide additional storage space
 To provide a faster hard drive
 To hold the system swap file
 To provide a backup for the original hard drive
 To increase fault tolerance
New partitions or drive letter assignments should be well-
planned. The boot order in BIOS may need to be
adjusted.
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Types of RAID
 Arrays, such as a redundant array of independent
disks (RAID), improve fault tolerance when connecting
multiple hard drives.
 Install RAID using hardware or software.
Hardware installations are usually more dependable, but more
expensive.
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Upgrade and Configure I/O Devices
Reasons installing new I/O devices:
 Replace a device that
stopped operating
properly
 Increase performance
and/or productivity
 Add ergonomically
designed devices
 Accommodate users with disabilities
When upgrading and configuring I/O devices, install new
drivers, if necessary.
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Preventive Maintenance Techniques
 Preventive maintenance can extend the life of the
components, protect data, and improve computer
performance.
 Preventive maintenance
includes:
Clean internal components.
Clean the case.
Inspect computer
components.
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Clean Internal Components
 To remove dust, use compressed air to blow the dust
away.
 When using a can of compressed air, keep the can upright
to prevent the fluid from leaking onto computer
components.
 While cleaning, inspect components for loose screws and
connectors.
 Keep these internal parts as clean as possible:
Heat sink/fan assembly
Case fan
RAM
Power supply
Adapter cards
Internal drives
Motherboard
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Clean the Computer Case
 Dust buildup inside a computer can prevent the flow of
air and affect cooling.
 Use a cloth or duster to clean the outside of the
computer case.
 If using a cleaning product, put a small amount onto a
cleaning cloth or duster and wipe the outside of the
case.
 Also, look for and fix these issues:
Missing expansion slot covers that let dust, dirt, or living pests
into the computer
Loose or missing screws that secure adapter cards
Missing or tangled cables that can pull free from the case
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Inspect Computer Components
 CPU and cooling system
Examine for dust buildup.
Check that the fan power cable is secure.
Check the fan while the power is on to see the fan turn.
Inspect the CPU to be sure that it is seated securely in the
socket.
Make sure that the heat sink is well attached.
CAUTION: Do not remove the CPU for cleaning.
 RAM connections
Ensure RAM chips are seated securely in the RAM slots.
Sometimes the retaining clips can loosen.
Use compressed air to remove any dust.
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 Storage devices
Ensure all cables are firmly connected.
Check for loose, missing, or incorrectly set jumpers.
A drive should not produce rattling, knocking, or grinding
sounds.
Read the manufacturer's manual to learn how to clean optical
drive and tape heads by using cotton swabs and compressed
air.
Clean floppy drives with a drive cleaning kit.
 Adapter cards
Ensure cards are seated properly.
Secure cards with the retaining screw to avoid the cards coming
loose in their expansion slots.
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Chapter 11 Use compressed air to remove any dirt or dust on the adapter
© 2007 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. Cisco Public 40
 Power devices, including power strips, surge suppressors
(surge protectors), and UPS devices
Ensure proper ventilation. Replace power strips if there have
been electrical problems or excessive thunderstorms in the area.
 Loose screws
Can cause problems if not immediately fixed or removed.
 Keyboard and mouse
Use compressed air or a small vacuum cleaner to clean the
keyboard and mouse. If the mouse is the mechanical type,
remove the ball and clean off any dirt.
 Cables
Look for broken and bent pins. Ensure that all connector
retaining screws are finger tight.
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Troubleshooting Process
Step 1 Gather data from the customer
Step 2 Verify the obvious issues
Step 3 Try quick solutions first
Step 4 Gather data from the computer
Step 5 Evaluate the problem and implement the solution
Step 6 Close with the customer
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1. Gather Data from the Customer
 Customer information
Company name, contact name, address, phone number
 Laptop information
Manufacturer, model, OS, network environment, connection
type
 Description of problem
Open-ended questions
How often does the computer fail to start?
Closed-ended questions
Is the computer turned off at night?
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2. Verify the Obvious Solutions
 Are all the cables to this computer tightly in their sockets?
 Is the power cord firmly seated at both ends?
 Is the cable that connects the computer to the monitor
squarely seated in its socket with the thumbscrews finger-
tight?
 Are any of the rear-panel expansion slot covers loose so
that the adapter cards have loosened?
 Was the computer recently dropped or jarred?
 Are there any missing screws or signs that the computer
has been tampered with?
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3. Try Quick Solutions First
After the obvious issues have been verified, try some
quick solutions:
 Check the external cables for loose connections that
could cause a restart.
 Check the internal data and power cables for loose
connections.
 Ensure adapter cards and RAM are properly secured.
 Verify all cooling fans are operating properly.
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4. Gather Data from the Computer
Ways to gather information about the problem from the
computer:
 Could not access safe mode from menu.
 Computer boots from a Windows startup disk.
 The hard drive can be accessed manually.
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5. Evaluate Problem & Implement Solution
 Problem solving experience
 Other technicians
 Internet search
 News groups
 Manufacturer FAQs
 Computer manuals
 Device manuals
 Online forums
 Technical websites
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6. Close with the Customer
 Discuss with customer the solution implemented.
 Have customer verify problem is solved.
 Provide all paperwork to customer.
 Document steps of solution in the work order and in the
technician’s journal.
 Document components used in repair.
 Document time spent to resolve the problem.
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Common Problems and Solutions
Problem Symptom Possible Solution
Turn off the integrated audio on the
Sound card does not work.
motherboard using the BIOS setup program.
Cannot use SCSI drive. Check SCSI IDs for duplicates.

Cannot detect drive after
Check and reseat power cable.
boot up.
Reseat processor, verify motherboard
System does not start after
compatibility with the BIOS version and the
installing new processor.
CPU, flash the BIOS.
Cannot use external SCSI
Turn on drive before booting computer.
drive.
Check fan power cable, verify fan operation,
System runs for a few
and verify that thermal compound is properly
minutes, and then locks up.
applied.
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Apply Troubleshooting Skills
 It is time to apply your listening and diagnostic skills.
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Chapter 11 Summary
 Advanced computer diagnosis and repair
 Select components for replacement and for upgrade
 Upgrade personal computers
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Instructor Training
Activities
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Activities for Instructor Training
1. Take the Quiz provided in Chapter 11 course content.
2. Conduct Internet research to pre-screen online
resources for students to use in completing the
student worksheets
11.1 Job Opportunities
11.3.7 Research Computer Components
3. Complete the 3 worksheets and 5 labs included in

Chapter 11. While you are completing these, make
notes of potential issues and questions that students
may have.
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Instructor Training Discussion
 Share and discuss with the other
instructors, your list of any potential
student issues and questions
regarding the worksheets and labs.
 Share with the other instructors, your
list of online resources for students to
use in completing the worksheet.
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Additional Resources
 Career resources, news, jobs and resumes in Information
Technology and Engineering http://www.techcareers.com/
 Whatis?com: IT Encyclopedia and Learning Center
http://whatis.com
 TechTarget: The Most Targeted IT Media http://techtarget.com
 ZDNet: Tech News, Blogs and White Papers for IT Professionals
http://www.zdnet.com
 HowStuffWorks: It's Good to Know
http://computer.howstuffworks.com
 CNET.com http://www.cnet.com
 PC World http://www.pcworld.com
 ComputerWorld http://www.computerworld.com
 WIRED NEWS http://www.wired.com
 eWEEK.com http://www.eweek.com
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Q and A
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ITE PC v4.0

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Chapter 11:

IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software v4.0

 A remote technician may work at a help desk

 A bench technician may not work directly with

 If the motherboard does not have

 An output device transfers information out of a computer:

1. Find out what the customer wants

CAUTION: You must apply thermal compound between

Cannot use SCSI drive. Check SCSI IDs for duplicates.

3. Complete the 3 worksheets and 5 labs included in

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