IT Hardware Fundamentals

Module Overview

• Introduces the fundamentals of IT hardware, including mobile devices like laptops
• Covers safety considerations and regulatory impacts
• Explains installing and configuring RAM for modern computing infrastructure

Learning Objectives

• Define and describe hardware in enterprise environments
• Define and describe safety considerations for managing hardware
• Define, describe, and implement laptop hardware
• Implement the appropriate amount of memory for different scenarios

Hardware Fundamentals

• Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system or electronic device that can be touched, seen, and manipulated

Hardware Examples

• CPUs (Central Processing Units): The brain of the computer, carrying out instructions and processing data
• Memory (RAM): Temporary storage that allows the CPU to quickly access and work with data
• HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) and SSDs (Solid-State Drives): Storage devices that store data permanently
• Motherboards: The main circuit board that connects and allows communication between various hardware components
• GPUs (Graphics Processing Units): Handles the rendering and processing of graphics and images
• PSUs (Power Supply Units): Supplies power to all components within the computer system
• Input and output devices: Keyboards, mice, monitors, printers, and scanners, enabling users to input and output information
• NICs (Network Interface Cards): Allow computers to connect to networks
• Sound cards: Manages audio input and output on a computer system
• Peripherals: External hard drives, webcams, microphones, and speakers, which enhance functionality

Hardware Safety

• Safety is essential when working with hardware due to potential risks and hazards
• Hardware components and electronic devices operate on high voltages and electrical currents
• Improper handling can lead to electric shock, short circuits, fires, or component damage
• Adhering to safety guidelines, such as wearing protective gear and working in ventilated areas, minimizes risks

Electrical Safety Tools

• Anti-static wrist bracelets and ankle straps: Worn to dissipate static electricity from the body, redirecting charges to the ground
• Anti-static mats: Provides a static dissipative surface to work on, reducing the risk of static discharge
• Anti-static bags: Designed to store and transport sensitive electronic components, shielding against ESD

Electrical Safety when Tools are unavailable

• Equalize to the device or its components before working on them if anti-static tools are unavailable
• Touch the device to evenly distribute the electrical charge (static electricity)
• Touch the device again after taking a break
• Control dry skin and ensure clothes are not over-dry to help prevent large amounts of static buildup

Fire Safety

• Is of utmost importance when working with hardware
• Understanding different fire types and having the tools to combat them is crucial for safety

Fire Classes

• Class A: Ordinary combustible materials like paper, wood, rubber, or plastics, which produce ash when burning
• Class B: Flammable liquids or gases, such as oils, paints, solvents, or gasoline
• Class C: Electrical fires where the source is an energized electrical component
• Class D: Flammable metals like magnesium, titanium, or lithium
• Class K: Fires in commercial cooking appliances due to igniting cooking oils, fats, or greases

Fire Extinguishers

• Water-based extinguishers are effective against Class A fires
• Foam extinguishers are suitable for Class A and Class B fires, as they form a smothering blanket
• CO2 extinguishers are used for Class B and Class C fires, displacing oxygen and removing heat
• Powder extinguishers are versatile and can handle Class A, B, and C fires, inhibiting chemical reactions
• Wet chemical extinguishers are specifically designed for Class K fires, creating a barrier between fuel and oxygen

PASS Technique

• P: Pull the safety pin to prevent accidental discharge
• A: Aim at the base of the fire, pointing the nozzle at the source
• S: Squeeze the handle or lever to discharge the extinguishing agent
• S: Sweep from side to side, covering the fire area until fully extinguished

Fire Extinguisher Considerations

• Ensure the valve assembly is metal, pressure gauges are essential, and CO2 extinguishers lack pressure gauges
• Fire triangle: Explains the three elements necessary for a fire including oxygen, heat, and fuel
• Extinguishers reduce heat and separates fuel from oxygen, effectively extinguishing the fire

Safety Regulations

• OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration): Enforces health and safety standards, sets regulations, and provides guidelines
• EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission): Enforces federal laws related to workplace discrimination, ensuring equal treatment
• Hardware safety practices and policies do not discriminate.
• State/local officials establish and enforce additional regulations specific to each state and county
• SDS or MSDS (Safety Data Sheets): Provides information about hazards, handling, storage, and emergency procedures; formally known as MSDS Material Safety Data Sheets

Common Hardware Safety Tools

• Screwdrivers: Used for screws with slotted or Phillips heads
• Pliers: A tool for gripping, bending, cutting, and holding objects
• Wrenches: Used for turning nuts and bolts, adjustable to fit different sizes
• Hammers: A tool with a weighted head for delivering impact force
• Power drills: Used for drilling holes or driving screws, usually with adjustable speed and interchangeable bits

Safe Usage of Tools

• Essential guidelines include having a well-stocked first aid kit
• Select the right tool for the task
• Inspect before use, ensure tools are functional
• Use the tools in the intended manner

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Proper hand placement is essential, maintain a firm grip
• Proper protective equipment such as safety goggles, gloves, and ear protection should be worn
• Keep the work area clean and organized to avoid accidents
• Follow safety practices, be aware of potential hazards, and stay updated on safety guidelines

Components as FRUs

• Items such as computer power supply, toner, and CRT monitors are FRUs (Field Replaceable Units)
• FRUs hould be repaired by trained personnel and disposed of properly

Laptop-Based Hardware

• Is a portable PC designed for ease of use and mobility, integrating essential hardware components

Laptop Advantages

• Laptops prioritize portability and compactness compared to traditional desktop PCs
• Desktop PCs offer more customization and larger storage
• Laptops have components fitted into a smaller space, reducing customization options

Laptop Components

• Laptop batteries are lithium-ion and need replacement because the capacity degrades over time
• Keyboards or individual keys may require replacement if unresponsive, damaged, or worn out
• RAM modules may need upgrades to improve performance; RAM is discussed in further detail in the follow topic
• Wireless cards may need replacement if Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is not working properly or needs an upgrade
• AC adapters convert AC supply to DC requiring 110v – 240v

Important Note about AC Adapters

• Plugging a fixed 240v adapter into a 110v outlet will not cause damage, but the laptop will not work
• Plugging a 110v adapter into a 240v outlet will likely cause damage

Laptop Security

• Security is important due to increased vulnerability to theft due to portability
• Laptops contain sensitive and valuable data, which is attractive to cybercriminals
• Mitigating risks requires physical privacy and security components

Components for Laptop Security

• Cable locks: Anti-theft cables allow laptops to be secured to a fixed object
• Biometrics: Fingerprint scanners or facial recognition systems
• NFC (Near-Field Communication): scanner features allows communication between nearby devices

RAM (Random Access Memory)

• Memory used to store and access data quickly and directly impacts performance and multitasking
• Considered volatile memory since contents are lost when the computer is powered off or restarted
• Available in different sizing options (capacities),Common sizes for laptops include 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB
• Has measuring units to calculate speed/data transfer in MHz (Mega Hertz) and MT/s (Megatransfers)

RAM Considerations

• Motherboard only allows up to a specific amount
• Installing 3200MHz RAM may run at 2400 MHz by default, like with DDR4, requiring changes in BIOS/UEFI
• Ensure it matches the laptop's specifications, including the required memory speed and form factor
• Handle RAM modules carefully, avoiding static discharge or excessive force

RAM Types

• (Virtual RAM): A portion of a computer's hard drive or SSD used as an extension of physical RAM
• SODIMM (Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module): Commonly used in laptops, mini PCs, and small form factor desktop computers
• DDR (Dual Data Rate): This type of computer memory transfers twice as fast, DDR4 for example

Additional RAM Types and Information

• DDR SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM): RAM is synchronized to the motherboard's clock system
• DDR3 (Double Data Rate 3): Faster data transfer rates and higher bandwidth than DDR2
• DDR4 (Double Data Rate 4): Successor to DDR3, offering performance and energy efficiency improvements
• DDR5 (Double Data Rate 5): Latest generation of RAM, offering even higher data transfer rates and improved power efficiency
• UDIMM (unbuffered dual in-line memory module): Unbuffered RAM used commonly in desktops and laptops
• ECC (Error Correction Code) RAM: Type of RAM that includes additional circuitry for error detection and correction

RAM Instructions

• Power off and unplug
• Unscrew and open
• Locate RAM
• Align RAM with slot
• Push RAM into slot at 45-degree angle
• Click into place
• Close and secure
• Plug in and power on

Reasons for RAM Installation

• Performance upgrades: Improves overall performance by handling more demanding tasks
• System requirements: Upgrading may be necessary to meet system requirements
• Future-proofing: Installing more RAM can help future-proof a computer as software evolves and is more resource-intensive
• Faulty or incompatible RAM: Replacement for faulty or problematic RAM modules
• RAM expansion: Allows for more memory-intensive tasks and applications to be run simultaneously
• System repair or upgrade: Required for repairing a computer with memory-related issues
• Compatibility with new operating systems: Ensures smooth operation and compatibility with new systems and software updates
• When installing or replacing RAM consult the computer or motherboard manufacturer's documentation

RAM Channels

• Refers to the number of memory modules the processor can access simultaneously
• Single-channel: One pathway between the CPU and RAM modules
• Dual-channel: Two separate pathways or channels, commonly found in mainstream laptops and desktops
• Triple-channel: Similar to dual-channel but with an additional channel, more common in older high-end systems
• Quad-channel: Offers the highest level of memory bandwidth and performance often related to video editing or 3D rendering