Tag Archives: Lab Project

Networking and Operating Systems

Section 3.3 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.
    • 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:
    • What is the speed of the CPU?
    • 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:
    • Hard Drive
    • Optical Drive (DVD-Rom)
    • RAM sticks
    • Power Supply Unit
    • Motherboard
  6. Acquire a philips head screwdriver from the tool cabinet and proceed to carefully remove the heatsink assembly, exposing the CPU.
  7. 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. Proceed to carefully remove the motherboard and power supply.
  9. Use canned air to clean the PC case of lint and debris to ensure optimal airflow.
  10. 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 “Section 3.3 Lab” by Friday, February. 2nd.

Assigned: January 30th, 2024
Due Date: February 2nd, 2024
AZ CS Standard: Hardware and Software – HS.CS. HS.1

Networking and Operating Systems

Section 2.4.3 Wireless Technologies Lab – DIY Directional Antennas Project 2023: Build Phase and Testing

Objective:

  • I can demonstrate my understanding of computer networks, network operating systems and wireless networking by assembling a directional antenna with the intent of establishing and sustaining a 2.4 GHz wireless signal at a distance of greater than 100 yards.

Links:

Team-Agreement-2023-FillableFormDownload
Team-Work-Plan-2023-FillableFormDownload


Do It Yourself Wireless Antenna (Pringles Can Yagi): https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-make-a-wifi-antenna-out-of-a-pringles-can-nb/

Building the Cylinder (Can) Waveguide (measurements calculator):
https://www.wikarekare.org/Antenna/WaveguideCan.html

Topics Discussed:

Wireless Networking
802.11 Wi-Fi spec
Directional Antennas
Waveguide Antenna
Yagi Antenna

Assignment:

Today, we will continue the build phase of our directional antenna project. Remember that the goal is to sustain a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi signal over a minimum distance of 100 yards (300 ft or ~92m).

All tools and equipment are on the metal carts and tables in the front of Room 225. The transmitter testing cart is in the front of Room 225, and the username and password is on a sticky note on top of the cart. Use the velcro strap to secure your can to the tripod and use the tripod handles to angle your can to point at the upright antennas on the target router located on the receiver cart. The receiver cart (with the target router) is in the back of the room, and the username and password is located on a sticky note on the PC case.

Please use this time to make progress on your project. When you are ready for testing, I will set up the testing carts on both ends of the hallway outside my room in the 200 building so we can test all completed antennas to allow those with working products to see the results and modify their designs if necessary. You should have a finished antenna prepared to test at that time so you can tweak the design if necessary before the final test on the week of the 18th!

We will conduct final tests on Monday, December 19th. To be considered a success (and receive credit for the project), your antenna design must be able to sustain at least a -67 dBm wireless signal over a 100 yard distance (the length of the football field).

Reminder: The team (or individual) that produces the antenna that can reliably sustain the highest signal strength (as measured by Signal Quality percentage and Signal as measured in decibels) over the longest distance on the final testing day will receive a personal pizza and wings party, to be held while everyone else writes a three paragraph personal reflection on Wednesday, December 20th describing their participation in this project.

Good luck, and remember: Your antenna doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be better than everyone else’s!

Posted: December 5th, 2023
Due Date: December 19th, 2023

Networking and Operating Systems

DIY Directional Antennas 2019 – Final Reflection

Objective:

I can complete the DIY Directional Antenna Project by reflecting on and evaluating what I learned throughout the course of the activity by completing an online reflection form.

Links:

DIY Antennas Project Final Reflection Form:

Google Classroom

Topics Discussed:

Wireless Networking
802.11 Wi-Fi spec
Directional Antennas
Waveguide Antenna
Yagi Antenna
Helical Antenna

Assignment:

Today, we will complete our directional antenna project. Our goal was to sustain a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi signal over a minimum distance of 100 yards (300 ft or ~92m) with a minimum signal strength of -67 dBm. Many of the Pringles can yagi antenna designs struggled with this task, but one came out on top with a very respectable -66 dBm signal and 34% sustained signal quality over a distance of 100 yards. Please congratulate Erwin N. and Brandon A. for their outstanding Pringles can yagi antenna assembly that conquered all other designs. They will be enjoying pizza and wings for lunch today as the rest of the class completes this final reflection assignment.

The link for the reflection assignment can be found here. Please follow the instructions on the form, and answer each question group with a paragraph comprised of at least three complete sentences. Pay attention to your spelling, punctuation and grammar as you compose your paragraphs. This assignment is to be written in a professional tone in an academic voice, and it will be graded based on the criteria described on the form. Each team member must submit their own form, but can work together on the wording of the individual submissions. You are encouraged to type your answers in a separate Google Doc to ensure your answers are saved, then transfer your answers to the Google Form for submission. This assignment is effectively your final project assessment which represents the major portion of your project grade, and should be addressed accordingly.

Good luck, and thank you for all your hard work on this project. Do your best on your reflection and then it’s back to the TestOut LabSim software to finish up our last few chapters before Winter Break!

Posted: December 3rd, 2019
Due Date: December 3rd, 2019

Networking and Operating Systems

Section 2.4 Lab – DIY Directional Antennas Project 2019: Build Phase and Testing

Objective:

I can demonstrate my understanding of computer networks, network operating systems and wireless networking by assembling a directional antenna with the intent of establishing and sustaining a 2.4 GHz wireless signal at a distance of greater than 100 yards.

Links:

Team Agreement 2019Download
Team Work Plan 2019Download

Do It Yourself Wireless Antenna (Pringles Can Yagi): https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-make-a-wifi-antenna-out-of-a-pringles-can-nb/

How to Build a Tin Can Waveguide WiFi Antenna: https://www.turnpoint.net/wireless/cantennahowto.html

DIY Bi-Quad Directional Wi-Fi Antenna:  https://lifehacker.com/5964111/diy-wi-fi-antenna-cheaply-extends-your-wireless-network

$10 Wi-Fi 16dBi Super Antenna: https://www.instructables.com/id/10–WIFI-16dBi-Super-Antenna-Pictorial/

Topics Discussed:

Wireless Networking
802.11 Wi-Fi spec
Directional Antennas
Waveguide Antenna
Yagi Antenna
Flickenger design Antenna

Assignment:

Today, we will continue the build phase of our directional antenna project. Remember that the goal is to sustain a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi signal over a minimum distance of 100 yards (300 ft or ~92m).

All tools and equipment are on the metal cart in the front of Room 225. The transmitter testing cart is in the front of Room 225, and the username and password is on a piece of tape on the side of the cart. Use the velcro strap to secure your can to the tripod and use the tripod handles to angle your can to point at the upright antennas on the target router located on the receiver cart. The receiver cart (with the target router) is in the back of the room, and the username and password is located on a stickynote on the PC case.

Please use this time to make progress on your project. On Friday, November 21st, I will set up the testing carts on both ends of the hallway outside my room in the 200 building so we can test all completed antennas to allow those with working products to see the results and modify their designs if necessary. You should have a finished antenna prepared to test at that time so you can tweak the design if necessary before the final test on the week of the 25th!

We will conduct final tests on Tuesday, November 25th. To be considered a success (and receive credit for the project), your antenna design must be able to sustain at least a -67 dBm wireless signal over a 100 yard distance (the length of the football field).

Reminder: The team (or individual) that produces the antenna that can reliably sustain the highest quality signal (as measured by Signal Quality percentage and Signal as measured in decibels) over the longest distance will receive a personal pizza and wings party, to be held on Wednesday, November 26th while everyone else writes a four paragraph personal reflection describing their participation in this project.

Good luck, and remember: Your antenna doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be better than everyone else’s.

Posted: November 21st, 2019
Due Date: November 26th, 2019

Networking and Operating Systems

Section 2.4 Lab – DIY Directional Antennas Project 2019

Objective:

  • I can demonstrate my understanding of computer networks, network operating systems and wireless networking by assembling a directional antenna with the intent of establishing and sustaining a 2.4 GHz wireless signal at a distance of greater than 100 yards.

Links:

Team Agreement 2019Download
Team Work Plan 2019Download

Do It Yourself Wireless Antenna (Pringles Can Yagi): https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-make-a-wifi-antenna-out-of-a-pringles-can-nb/

How to Build a Tin Can Waveguide WiFi Antenna: https://www.turnpoint.net/wireless/cantennahowto.html

DIY Bi-Quad Directional Wi-Fi Antenna:  https://lifehacker.com/5964111/diy-wi-fi-antenna-cheaply-extends-your-wireless-network

$10 Wi-Fi 16dBi Super Antenna: https://www.instructables.com/id/10–WIFI-16dBi-Super-Antenna-Pictorial/

Topics Discussed:

  • Wireless Networking
  • 802.11 Wi-Fi spec
  • Directional Antennas
  • Waveguide Antenna
  • Yagi Antenna
  • Flickenger design Antenna

Assignment:

Today, we are going to begin a focused short-term project that is to be completed before the Thanksgiving Break. The goal is simple: design and build a directional antenna that will sustain a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi signal over a minimum distance of 100 yards (300 ft or ~92m).

The stretch goal is a little more complex: design and build a directional antenna that will extend that 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi signal as far as possible.

  1. Use the links I have provided to learn about do-it-yourself directional antenna designs. There are many designs to choose from, so do your research and select the design that you think will be most effective in extending and sustaining the Wi-Fi signal over the longest range.
  2. You may work with a partner, or choose to go it alone. If you choose to work with a partner, you will need to pick up and complete both a Project Team Contract and a Project Team Work Plan (available in the Student Pickup Folder in the Marmolejo NetOp 1-2 subfolder on the StudentsTempFiles network share).
  3. Even if you are working by yourself, use the Project Team Work Plan to identify and prepare for the steps of this project (i.e. research, acquisition of materials, installation, configuration, building, testing, modification and upgrades). Submit a completed Project Team Work Plan to the instructor as soon as it is completed.
  4. Proceed with the first identified steps in your Project Team Work Plan. Do your best to follow the plan, but don’t be afraid to amend or alter the plan as the need arises.
  5. You may work in Room 225, but you will need to notify the instructor if you need access the tools in Room 212.
  6. All tools and equipment are located in Room 212. Testing PCs (sender and recipient) will be provided on rolling carts to allow for testing of antennas.
  7. Please use this time to make progress on your project. We have time provided to complete the project, but no time to waste. It is highly likely that your first antenna design may not be your final design, and you will need time to test and make adjustments to your design to achieve optimal results. Use the time given to build, test, modify and retest to get the best results!
  8. We will conduct initial tests the week of November 18th. To be considered a success (and receive credit for the project), your antenna design must be able to sustain at least a -67 dBm wireless signal over a 100 yard distance (the length of the football field).
  9. Upon completion of initial tests, you will have a week to revise and retest your design before the final testing during the week of November 25th.
  10. The team (or individual) that produces the antenna that can reliably sustain the highest signal strength over the longest distance on the final testing day will receive a personal pizza and wings party, to be held while everyone else writes a four paragraph personal reflection describing their participation in this project.

Good luck, and remember: the best way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time.

Posted: November 12th, 2019
Due Date: November 27th, 2019

Networking and Operating Systems

Section 2.3 Lab – Ethernet Cat5e Patch Cable Assembly

Objective

  • I can demonstrate my understanding of physical networking media by assembling a Cat5e network cable to the Ethernet EIA/TIA 568A and 568B standards.

Links:

Topics Discussed:

  • Networking Basics
  • Networking Fundamentals
  • Ethernet
  • EIA/TIA
  • 568A & 568B Standards
  • Cat5, 5e & 6
  • Local Area Network
  • Cable Management

Assignment:

  1. This week, we will be working on our Ethernet Cabling exercise, where we will assemble an Ethernet Cat5e cable to the EIA/TIA 568A and 568B standards.
  2. Visit the web links provided above for instructions on how to build a Cat5e cable to the EIA/TIA 568A or 568B spec. Read through the instructions completely before proceeding. Pay particular notice to the difference between a “passthrough” cable and a “crossover” cable.
  3. Visit the rolling cart to pick up your tools and materials. You will need a arm’s length of Cat5e cable, two RJ-45 cable ends (with load bars), and a crimper tool.
  4. Follow the instructions to build your passthrough patch cable.
  5. Once you have your passthrough cable built, test it using the provided cable tester. If your cable test is successful, you may proceed to build a “crossover” cable for extra credit.
  6. Use clear tape and a marker to label your cables with your name and what type of cable it is (passthrough or crossover), and place it in the wire basket on the front table in the room.
  7. Once they are graded, you are free to take your Cat5e cable home for your own use. Cables left behind will be deployed within the department.

Assigned: October 31st, 2019
Due Date: November 1st, 2019

Networking and Operating Systems

Section 1.5 Lab – Operating System Installation – Windows 10

Objective:

Students will be able to demonstrate their understanding of basic operating system installation by installing and configuring a common desktop operating system so that they can prepare common desktop PCs for deployment.

Link:

Topics Discussed:

  • Software
  • System Software
  • Application Software
  • Operating Systems
  • Device Drivers
  • Utility Programs
  • GUI
  • Desktop OS

Assignment:

  1. This week we will be working in the lab with Operating Systems installation. We will be wiping and repartitioning the hard drives of our lab PCs, performing a basic operating system installation (Windows 10), and installing a specialized OS (Kali Linux) that we will use in the second half of our course.
  2. Collect your PC from the storage shelf and assemble it on the tables in Lab 212. Connect all peripherals and test it to ensure that it still boots to the desktop login window. You  do not need to log in.
  3. Windows 10 installation media will be distributed. Boot from the Windows installation USB to begin the installation process.
  4. You will be directed in class how to partition and format your hard drive. Once the hard drive is formatted to a single active partition, you may proceed with the installation process.
  5. Follow the installation process, paying close attention to all instructions and prompts.
  6. The required Account Name, Password and Machine Name naming convention will be written on the whiteboard in front of the room. Please make sure you type the Account Name and Password correctly, using capitals where indicated. Also, please take care to follow the correct Machine Name convention. DO NOT MAKE UP YOUR OWN INFORMATION FOR THESE STEPS.
  7. Your Windows 10 installation is nearly complete when your machine boots to the desktop, and you have successfully logged into the Admin account. You should then browse to the Dell Support page, where you will download and install all required support updates for your PC. Use the Dell support tag located on the top of the machine to determine your required updates on the Dell Support site. See me if your Dell support tag is missing.
  8. Once all device drivers and support software installations are complete, use the Control Panel to access the Windows Update settings. Click the Check for Updates button to search for updates and service packs. Install all service packs and updates that are available.
  9. Your Windows 10 installation is complete when all required device drivers, service packs and system updates are complete. Next week, we will install a specialized OS called Kali Linux, that is specifically designed for offensive security and penetration testing

Assigned: September 18th, 2019
Due Date: September 24th, 2019

Networking and Operating Systems

Section 1.3 Lab – Ports and Connectors Scavenger Hunt

Objective

  • I can demonstrate my understanding of modern and legacy ports and connectors by producing a document identifying each port visually, so I can maintain a working knowledge of what ports are available on a given PC just by looking at it.

Links:

Topics Discussed:

  • System Unit
  • Expansion Cards
  • Modern vs. Legacy
  • Ports
  • Connectors
  • Male / Female Ports & Connectors
  • Serial Communications
  • Parallel Communications

Assignment:

  1. Today, we will be working on a Ports and Connectors Scavenger Hunt activity, where you will be tasked with identifying 28 different expansion ports and connectors common to PC workstations.
  2. Using the list below, and the Internet for research, you will hunt all around my room to find each of the 28 ports on the hardware devices located throughout Room 225. Hunt high and low, and dig through the provided hardware bins to find them all!
  3. Use your cell phone, the iSight camera on your iMac, or a loaner digital camera (just ask me) to take pictures of each port. You must provide original photos of each port (No borrowing from the Internet!).
  4. Produce a document (Google Doc, Google Slides, etc.) and place your pictures in the document. Use text labels to identify each of the 28 ports.
  5. Submit your completed Ports and Connectors Scavenger Hunt document with all the required pictures to the Google Classroom assignment labeled “Section 1.3 Lab – Ports and Connectors Scavenger Hunt” by Monday, September 9th.
  6. If all 1st Year students complete the Lab by turning in an original document containing all 28 photos correctly labeled by end of day on Monday, the entire class will receive a pizza party on lucky Friday the 13th!
  7. Good luck, and happy hunting!

Ports and Connectors Scavenger Hunt List:

Legacy Multifunction Ports

D-Sub Ports:

  • 25-pin serial port (female)
  • 9-pin serial port (male)
  • 25-pin parallel port (female)
  • 36-pin IEEE 1284B Centronics connector (male)

Standard Single-Function Ports

  • PS/2 6-pin mini-DIN keyboard port (purple)
  • PS/2 6-pin mini-DIN mouse port (green)

Video Ports

  • 15-pin D-Sub VGA video port (female)
  • DVI Video port (female)
  • RGB Component ports (female)
  • Composite Video port (female)
  • Mini DisplayPort port (female)

Audio Ports

  • 1/8-inch mini-audio port (female)
  • S/PDIF coaxial audio port (female)

Multimedia Ports

  • RG-6 coaxial port (female)
  • S-Video port (female)
  • Composite Audio port (female)

MIDI/Joystick Ports

  • DB-15 Joystick/Game port (female)

Modem Ports

  • RJ-11 modem port (female)

Network Interface Ports

  • RJ-45 network port (female)
  • BNC Port (female)

Modern Multifunction Ports

  • USB Type A port (female)
  • USB 3.0 Type A port (female)
  • USB Type B port (female)
  • USB Type C port (female)
  • USB mini port (female)
  • USB micro port (female)
  • Firewire 400 IEEE 1394a port (female)
  • Firewire 800 IEEE 1394b port (female)

Assigned: September 5th, 2019
Due Date: September 9th, 2019

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

Networking and Operating Systems

Cyber Security Boot Camp – Week 6, Lab 1 – Dual Router Challenge

Objective: 

Students will continue preparing for proficiency in cyber security and networking fundamentals with a hands-on networking configuration exercise.

Links:

Topics Discussed:

  • Network Basics
  • OSI Model
  • TCP/IP Model
  • Network Addressing
  • Routing
  • Switching
  • Flooding
  • Routing Table
  • Routing Protocols

Assignment:

  1. Today 7th hour will use the concepts discussed in the last couple of weeks by configuring our own routers. 5th hour will conduct this activity next week.
  2. The class will be divided into two teams, each of which will be assigned a router, a 24-port switch, and a workstation, and a communal collection of network and power cabling.
  3. Both teams will be tasked with configuring their router to form two interconnected subnetworks, each supporting 24 hosts. Team 1’s network will be supplied Internet access from the school’s gateway. Team 2’s subnetwork will be required to receive Internet access from its connection with Team 1’s router.
  4. Each team will have to work together to correctly configure its router, but both teams will have to work together to form the links between the two networks.
  5. Use all the materials we have studied and the links I have provided above to set up and configure the network to the required specifications!

Assigned: February 13th, 2019
Teacher Pacing Due Date: February 19th, 2019