CST8208 – PC System Technology Fundamentals

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Questions and Answers

What is the total percentage of marks allocated to the Final Exam in CST8208?

20%

35% (correct)

50%

25%

Which tool is most commonly used for fastening screws in PC hardware?

Slot/Flat screwdriver

Pliers

#2 Phillips screwdriver (correct)

#1 Phillips screwdriver

Which of the following screw types is classified as a coarse thread?

Standoff/jackscrew

Fine thread

6-32 (correct)

Which scenario is considered unsafe when handling computer hardware?

Working on a computer while it is powered on Signup and view all the answers

What does the '10%' in the marks breakdown represent?

Quiz weight Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the motherboard in a PC?

To allow communication between devices and components Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the ATX form factor?

A form factor that includes more power supply features Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant factor that determines the motherboard's physical architecture?

The selected CPU and type of case Signup and view all the answers

Before the ATX form factor, which of the following was a commonly used design?

XT Signup and view all the answers

What does the form factor of a motherboard influence?

The location of external connectors and power requirements Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of Micro-ATX motherboards?

They are designed for smaller, lower cost systems. Signup and view all the answers

Which feature distinguishes Mini-ITX motherboards?

Designed for SFF and HTPC systems with limited expansion. Signup and view all the answers

What major enhancement was introduced with BTX motherboards?

Improved airflow through design modifications. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a step in motherboard installation?

Connect the CPU directly to the power supply. Signup and view all the answers

What do Mini-ITX motherboards commonly lack compared to ATX and Micro-ATX?

Multiple expansion slots. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about Micro ATX is true?

They are fully backward compatible with regular ATX motherboards. Signup and view all the answers

Why were BTX motherboards particularly favored by proprietary computer manufacturers?

They offered improved airflow and flexible designs. Signup and view all the answers

What type of connectors are essential during motherboard installation, aside from power connectors?

Front panel connectors and header connectors. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Course Information

Course name: CST8208 – PC System Technology
Course term: Fall 2024

Professors

Theory: Dan Chase (Section 010) - [email protected]
Lab: Brent McEvoy - [email protected]
Lab: Rob More - [email protected]
Lab: Dan Chase - [email protected]

Marks Breakdown

Term Test: 25%
Quizzes: 10%
Final Exam: 35%
Lab Evaluation: 20%
Pre-Labs: 10%
Total: 100%

Test Dates

Term Test (Section 010): October 15th
Final Exam: TBA

Textbook

Recommended/Optional Textbook: Scott Mueller's Upgrading and Repairing PC's (22nd Edition)
ISBN: 978-0-7897-5000-6
Online option: Safari by O'Reilly in library

Hardware/Technician Certification

CompTIA A+

Hardware Basics - Tools

Screwdrivers: #2 Phillips, #1 Phillips, Slot/Flat, Torx
Nutdrivers
Pliers (Needlenose)
Anti-Static Strap/Mat
Thermal Compound

Hardware Basics - Screw Types

M3: Fine thread
6-32: Coarse thread
Standoff/Jackscrews

Hardware Basics - Safety

Do not work on a powered-on computer system unless absolutely necessary.
Do not open or repair potentially dangerous devices (e.g., CRT monitors, power supplies).

Motherboards

Motherboard

Definition: The main circuit board in a PC
Function: Connects almost every component and peripheral in a computer
Function: Enables communication and interaction among devices and components

Motherboard Design

Multiple designs exist to meet various needs.
CPU and case type often determine the motherboard's physical architecture.
New processors necessitate new motherboards for compatibility.

Motherboard Layout

Form factor defines size, shape, mounting, power requirements, and external connector locations.
ATX is the most common form factor for modern motherboards.
Older AT and XT form factors are obsolete.

Motherboard Form Factors

ATX: Recent design with improvements over earlier factors
- Power supply often used as an exhaust for better air movement.
- Uses soft power enabled through software.
- Includes a wide variety of connectors on the back panel.
- Rearrangement of CPU and memory for easier access.
Micro-ATX: Designed for smaller, lower-cost systems found in mini-towers, including those with reduced width, fewer expansion slots, and optional smaller power supplies. Fully backwards compatible with regular ATX.
Mini-ITX: Designed for small form-factor (SFF) PCs and HTPCs (Home Theater PCs), often passively cooled and compatible with larger, ATX-standard cases.Typically has space for only one expansion slot.

Motherboard Installation

Install standoffs correctly in the chassis.
Install the motherboard I/O shield.
Install and secure the motherboard to the chassis.
Connect the front panel connectors (correct polarity).
Connect the header connectors (e.g., USB, audio).
Connect the power connectors.

Chipset Block Diagrams

Illustrate the evolution of motherboard chipsets.
Diagrams show interconnections between the CPU, RAM, and various I/O devices through the Northbridge and Southbridge components.

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Description

This quiz covers the fundamentals of PC System Technology, including essential hardware tools and screw types. It aims to assess your understanding of the critical components and preparation necessary for hardware and technician certification. Ensure you're familiar with the recommended textbook for comprehensive preparation.