Networking and Operating Systems

Chap. 1 Lab – PC Hardware Disassembly, Inventory & Reassembly

Objective:

  • I can demonstrate my understanding of PC Hardware fundamentals by disassembling a PC, inventorying the parts and successfully reassembling the PC so that I can better understand the internal hardware architecture of a common PC.

Links:

Topics Discussed:

  • Introduction to Information Technology
  • PC Hardware Fundamentals

Assignment:

  1. This week, we will visit the lab, where each student will be allowed to pick out a PC to use in their lab activities throughout the year.
  2. Each student should first assemble their PC, connect it to power, boot to the Windows operating system and confirm that it is in working order.
  3. Examine the computer and peripheral components, front and back.
    1. In a Google Doc or Form, create an inventory list of the external components. Provide the component name, manufacturer, description, characteristics and any identification numbers available (serial #, part #, model #).
  4. Observe the boot process and determine the following information:
    1. What is the speed of the CPU?
    2. How much RAM is installed?
  5. Next, each student will open up their PC, and remove and inventory (record any available information such as manufacturer, model, serial # and capacity) all easily removable components:
    1. Hard Drive
    2. Optical Drive (DVD-Rom)
    3. RAM sticks
    4. Power Supply Unit
    5. Motherboard
  6. Students will acquire a philips head screwdriver from the tool cabinet and proceed to carefully remove the heatsink assembly, exposing the CPU.
  7. Students will use the cleaning equipment provided to remove the old thermal paste from the CPU and the heatsink assembly, and will acquire a tube of thermal paste to apply fresh thermal paste to the CPU. Use the How to Apply Thermal Paste video as a guide on the correct method for the application of thermal paste, and take care not to waste the provided materials.
  8. Students will proceed to carefully remove the motherboard and power supply.
  9. Students will use canned air to clean the PC case of lint and debris to ensure optimal airflow.
  10. Students will reassemble the PC and its external peripherals, and reboot it to test its operation.
  11. Submit the completed PC Inventory document to the Google Classroom assignment labeled “Chap. 1 Lab” by Wednesday, Sept. 6th.

Assigned: August 14th, 2019
Due Date: August 21st, 2019