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• This content is adapted from Cisco Networking Academy materials and has been modified to suit specific educational needs.
• All original trademarks and copyrights belong to Cisco Systems, Inc.

Chapter 1 Objectives

• Explain how to keep personal computer components safe.
• Explain the components in a computer.
• Explain electrical and ESD safety.
• Explain the features and functions of computer components.
• Describe cases and power supplies.
• Describe motherboards.
• Describe CPUs.
• Explain the types of memory.
• Describe adapter cards and expansion slots.
• Describe hard disk drives and SSDs.
• Describe optical storage devices.
• Describe ports, cables, and adapters.
• Describe input devices.
• Describe output devices.
• Explain the features and functions of each component in the tool kit.
• Disassemble a computer.

1.1 Personal Computers

• A computer is defined as a person who makes complex calculations.
• A computer is also a programmable device to store, retrieve, and process data.
• A computer is an electronic device to retrieve, store, process, and output data, in binary, based on instructions from a program.
• A computer is a programmable electronic device designed to accept data, perform mathematical and logical operations, store data, and display the results.
• Mainframes, desktops, laptops, tablets, smartphones, smartwatches, and IoT devices are different types of computers.
• A computer system consists of hardware and software components.
• Hardware is physical equipment like the case, storage drives, keyboards, monitors, cables, speakers, and printers.
• Software is the operating system and programs.
• The operating system instructs the computer how to operate.
• Programs or applications perform different functions.

1.1 Electrical and ESD Safety

• Electrical devices have certain power requirements.
• AC adapters are made for specific laptops; using a different type can cause damage to the adapter and laptop.
• Some printer parts like power supplies contain high voltage; check the printer manual for the location of high-voltage components.
• Electrostatic discharge (ESD) occurs when an electric charge exists on a surface that contacts another surface, and can damage computer equipment if not discharged.
• Electrical safety guidelines can prevent electrical fires, injuries, and fatalities.
• Store components in antistatic bags until installation to prevent ESD damage.
• Use grounded mats and floor mats in work areas to prevent ESD damage.
• Wear antistatic wrist straps when working inside computers, ensuring the strap makes contact with the skin to prevent ESD damage.

1.2 PC Components - Form Factor

• A form factor defines the size and layout of the case.
• It influences motherboard and power supply selection.
• It allows proper airflow for cooling.
• Form factors are available indifferent sizes.
• Form factor provides protection for internal components.
• Choose a durable, easy to service, and spacious for expansion case.
• Choose a case that fits the dimensions of the power supply and motherboard.
• Cases house internal components like the power supply, motherboard, CPU, memory, disk drives, and adapter cards.
• Common case types include Super Tower, Full Tower, Mid Tower, Mini Tower, and Cube Case.

1.2 PC Components - Power Supplies

• Power Supplies Provide power to all computer components.
• Power supplies must be chosen based on current and future needs.
• Power supplies deliver different voltage levels to meet internal component needs.
• Power supplies convert AC power from the wall socket into low voltage DC power, and have an input voltage selector on the back.
• Power supplies are measured in Wattage, calculated using the Watt = Volt x Ampere formula.
• Power supply connectors provide varying voltages, with the most common being 3.3 volts, 5 volts, and 12 volts
• The 3.3 volt and 5 volt supplies are used by digital circuits, and the 12 volt supply runs motors in disk drives and fans.
• A power supply includes several different connectors.
• Connectors are used to power various internal components such as the motherboard and disk drives.
• Connector types vary based on the wattage of the power supply.
• Connector examples: 20-pin or 24-pin main power connector, SATA keyed connector, Molex keyed connector, and Berg keyed connector.

1.2 PC Components - Motherboard

• The motherboard is the backbone of the computer.
• It interconnects computer components and is the main printed circuit board.
• Contains buses, or electrical pathways.
• Buses allow data to travel among components.
• Accommodates the CPU, RAM, expansion slots, heat sink/fan assembly, BIOS chip, chip set, sockets, internal and external connectors, various ports, and embedded wires.
• Components may be soldered directly to the motherboard, or added using sockets, expansion slots, and ports.
• The main power uses a 20 or 24-pin connector
• Major components include: Central Processing Unit (CPU), Random Access Memory (RAM), Expansion Slots. Chipset, SATA Connectors, Internal USB Connector, BIOS Chip and UEFI Chip.
• The Chipset consists of integrated circuits which control CPU and motherboard interaction with other hardware.
• Most chipsets consist of types: Northbridge and Southbridge.
• Northbridge controls access to the RAM, video card, and CPU determining the speed at which the CPU communicates with other components, which are often integrated directly into CPU.
• Southbridge controls manages communication with slower components like hard drives, USB ports, sound cards, and I/O devices.
• Motherboard form factor refers to its size, shape, layout, components and mounting points.
• The three common form factors are: Advanced Technology eXtended (ATX), Micro-ATX, and ITX.
• (ATX): The most popular form factor, offering a standard size and extensive compatibility.
• (Micro-ATX): A smaller version of ATX, designed for compact systems while maintaining similar functionality
• (ITX): A compact form factor ideal for small-form-factor (SFF) builds, used in portable or space-saving devices.
• Motherboard form factor determines how components are connected, the required power supply, and its design and size of the computer case.
• ATX measure 12 in x 9.6 in (30.5 cm x 24.4 cm) and is the most popular form factor.
• Micro-ATX has a smaller footprint than ATX and is popular in desktop and small form factor computers, and measures: 9.6 in x 9.6 in (24.4 cm x 24.4 cm)
• Mini-ITX is designed for small devices, such as thin clients and set-top boxes, measures 6.7 in x 6.7 in (17 cm x 17 cm).
• ITX is comparable factor to Micro-ATX and measures 8.5 in x 7.5 in (21.5 cm x 19.1 cm)

1.2 PC Components - CPU

• The central processing unit (CPU) is for interpreting and executing commands, known at the brain of the compute.
• Modern CPU sockets and processor packages are built-in for compatibility and efficiency.
• This design can limit upgradeability and make replacements more challenging if the processor fails or needs an upgrade.
• The CPU socket is the connection between the motherboard and the processor.
• Some CPUs use hyperthreading or hypertransport technology to enhance their performance by improving data handling and multitasking capabilities.
• The amount of data a CPU can process at one time depends on the size of its data bus.
• CPU speed is measured in cycles per second, expressed in megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz).
• CPU Speed Overclocking is a technique used to increase a processor's speed beyond its original specifications, providing better performance, and can result in overheat and reduced lifespan.
• Latest processor technology enables CPU manufacturers to incorporate multiple CPU cores onto a single chip, significantly enhancing multitasking and processing power.
• Examples of multicore CPUs include: Dual-Core CPU, Triple-Core CPU, Quad-Core CPU, Hexa-Core CPU, and Octa-Core CPU.
• Dual-Core CPU: Contains two cores within a single CPU.
• Triple-Core CPU: Contains three cores within a single CPU.
• Quad-Core CPU: Contains four cores within a single CPU.
• Hexa-Core CPU: Contains six cores within a single CPU.
• Octa-Core CPU: Contains eight cores within a single CPU.
• High-Core CPUs: Some processors now feature up to sixteen cores or more, designed for high-performance tasks like gaming, video editing, and server operations.
• It is important to keep computer components cool, as excessive heat can reduce performance and lifespan.
• A case fan improves airflow within the case for a more efficient cooling process.
• A heat sink draws heat away from the CPU core using a fan to disperse heat further.
• Thermal compound enhances heat transfer between the CPU and the heat sink, keeping the CPU cool and functioning.

1.2 PC Components - Memory

• A computer uses various memory chips which store data in the form of bytes.
• A byte is a block of eight bits stored as either 0 or 1 in the memory chip.
• Read-Only Memory (ROM) stores basic instructions for booting the computer and loading the operating system, it retains contents when off, and cannot be erased/rewritten.
• Types of Read Only Memory include: Read-Only Memory (ROM) chips, Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM) chips, Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM) chips and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM) chips.
• Read-Only Memory (ROM) chips pre-programmed and unchangeable after manufacturing.
• Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM) chips can be programmed once after manufacturing.
• Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM) chips can be erased using ultra-violet light and reprogrammed.
• Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM) chips can be erased and reprogrammed electrically, commonly used in mordern devices.
• Random-Access Memory (RAM) is temporary storage for data /programs accessed by the CPU
• RAM's contents are erased when the computer is powered off; More RAM enhances system performance and handles larger files/programs.
• Types of RAM: SRAM (Static RAM),DRAM (Dynamic RAM), SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM), and DDR SDRAM (Double Data Rate SDRAM
• Other Types DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM, DDR4 SDRAM, GDDR SDRAM (Graphics DDR)

1.2 PC Components - Adapter cards

• Adapter cards increase computer functionality by adding controllers for specific devices or replacing malfunctioning ports.
• Common adapter cards include: Sound Adapter, Network Interface Card (NIC), Wireless NIC, Video Adapter (Display Adapter), Video Capture Card, TV Tuner Card, USB Controller Card, eSATA Card.
• Sound Adapter provides audio input and output capabilities.
• Network Interface Card (NIC) enables wired network connections.
• Wireless NIC adds wireless networking capabilities.
• Video Adapter enhances video output or adds support for multiple displays.
• Video Capture Card captures video from external sources.
• TV Tuner Card Allows the computer to receive and process TV signals.
• USB Controller Card adds extra USB ports.
• eSATA Card provides external SATA connectivity for high-speed storage devices.
• Expansion Slots enables installation of adapter cards to expand or enhance a computer's capabilities.
• The component's connector type must match the expansion slot on the motherboard.
• Common expansion slots are: Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI), Mini-PCI, PCI eXtended (PCI-X), PCI Express (PCIe), and Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP).
• Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) is a standard slot for various adapter cards.
• Mini-PCI is a smaller version of PCI typically used in laptops.
• PCI eXtended (PCI-X) is an enhanced version of PCI for servers and high-performance workstations.
• PCI Express (PCIe) is a high-speed slot for modern graphics cards, SSDs, and peripherals.
• Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) is a legacy slot for graphics cards, now replaced by PCle.
• Data drives provide non-volatile storage of dat and can be magnetic (HDD and tape derives), solid-state (SSD), or Optical (CDs and DVDs).
• HDD is traditional magnetic disk storage, capacities ranging from gigabytes (GB) to terabytes (TB).
• A tape drive is for archiving data, employs a magnetic read/write head, and removable tape cartridges, storage ranges from GB to TB.
• Floppy Disk Drive (FDD) is a legacy device using 3.5-inch floppy disks with capacity of 1.44 MB.
• Solid-State Drives (SSD) Store data as electrical charges in semiconductor flash memory, offer faster data access, improved performance, and higher reliability.
• SSDs have no moving parts, makes no noise, are energy efficient, resists vibrations, and produces less heat than HDDs.
• Optical drives are removable media storage that use lasers to read and write data, like Compact Discs (CD) for audio and data, Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) for digital video and data, Blu-ray Disc (BD) for HD digital video and data.

1.2 PC Components - Ports and Cables

• Input/output (I/O) ports on a computer connect peripheral devices, such as printers, scanners, and portable drives.
• A computer may have other ports: Personal System 2 (PS/2), audio and game port, network, Parallel AT Attachment (PATA).
• It also may have Serial AT Attachment (SATA), External SATA (eSATA), small Computer System Interface (SCSI), Universal Serial Bus (USB), Intergrated Drive Electronic (IDE), Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics (EIDE).
• Data cables connect storage drives to the drive controller on the motherboard, which enables data transfer.
• Types of data cables: FDD Data Cable, which connect floppy drives.
• PATA (EIDE) Data Cable is an 80-conductor ribbon cable for older devices.
• SATA Data Cable is a narrow, internal cable offering faster data transfer.
• Serial Ports transmit one bit of data at a time using DB-9 or DB-25 connectors.
• USB Ports are a standard interface for hot-swappable peripherals that provide power to devices.
• Parallel Cables connect devices such as printers/scanners, and transmit 8 bits of data.
• Network Ports (RJ-45) connect a computer to a network.
• Telephone Ports (RJ-11) connect a modem to telephone.
• PS/2 Port connects a keyboard or mouse to a computer.
• Audio Port connects audio devices like speakers or headphones.
• Video Ports connect a monitor to a computer.
• Common port types are Digital Visual Interface (DVI): Common for video output.
• DisplayPort is for high-performance video and audio.
• High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is widely used for HD video and audio.
• Thunderbolt 1/2 combines video, data, and power in one cable.
• Thunderbolt 3: Faster version with USB-C compatibility.
• Video Graphics Array (VGA) is legacy port for analog video
• Radio Corporation of America (RCA) is used for composite video signals
• Common types of Input Devies are Keyboard and Mouse, ADF/Flatbed scanner, and Joystick and Gamepad.
• Keaboard and Mouse are for text input and navigation, ADF/Flatbed Scanner is used to digitize documents and images, Joystick and Gamepad are used for gaming.
• Other forms of input devices: Touch Screen, the display.
• Stylus is used for touch screens
• Magnetic Stripe Reader is for reading data in magnetic stripes in strips
• Barcode Scanner scans barcode
• Other inputs are from Cameras, Signature pad, Smart Card Readers, Microphones.
• Recent Input Devices: Near Field Communication (NFC) Devices and Terminals, and Biometic Devices
• Devices and Terminals: Enables contactless communication for data transfer/payment.
• Biometic Devices:: Facial Recognition, Fingerprint scanners, Voice recgonition scanners
• Output Devices such as Monitors and projectors
• Also Printers, speakers, headphones and VR Headsets

1.2 PC Components - Output Devices

• Monitors display visual output.
• Projectors enlarge visual output.
• Printers produce physical copies of documents or images.
• Speakers generate audio signals.
• Headphones provide personal audio output.
• VR Headsets deliver visual and audio output for virtual reality.
• Printers are output devices that create hard copies of files on various materials which can be paper or creates a plastic form, and can work on wired or wireless connections.
• Printers may requires an ink, toner, or liquid plastic, as well as a driver to communicates with the operating system.
• The Printer can be:
• Inkjet: Sprays ink onto paper.
• Impact: Uses mechanical pressure (e.g., dot matrix).
• Thermal: Uses Heat on heat-sensitive materials.
• Laser: Uses toner and lasers for high-speed prints.
• 3D Printer: Creates physical objects using a liquid plastic material.
• Speakers outputs auditory with Speakers
• Headphones, Earbuds, and Earphones provides personal audio output, which can be wired or wireless.

1.3 Disassemble a Computer

• The steps for disassembling are
  1. Power off then disconnect the power supply.
  2. Disconnect the mouse and keyboard.
  3. Then the case screws.
  4. Remove SATA power and data cables
  5. Remove he hard drive

6. Remove the optical drive
7. Remove the Adapter card
8. Remove Power Supply
9. Lastly Remove front panel connectors, and the RAM stick.

• Consider safe lab procedures and guidelines
• Ensure proper tools for the task
• Handle components with care to avoid damage.
• FAmiliarize your self with the tools
• Document to components are assembled
• Use Anti static bags
• keep track of screws and cables