Types of Hardware Tools PDF

LESSON 1 Types of Hardware Tools  Definition: Physical instruments for assembling, disassembling, repairing, maintaining, and troubleshooting computer systems.   Classifications: 1. Hand Tools 2. Diagnostic Tools 3. Cleaning Tools 4. Elect...

LESSON 1 Types of Hardware Tools  Definition: Physical instruments for assembling, disassembling, repairing, maintaining, and troubleshooting computer systems.   Classifications: 1. Hand Tools 2. Diagnostic Tools 3. Cleaning Tools 4. Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Tools A. Hand Tools  Description: Manual instruments for maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting.  Functions: o Ensure accurate repairs. o Prevent damage to delicate components. o Improve efficiency in troubleshooting and assembly.  Key Hand Tools: 1. Screwdriver: Tightens or loosens screws in components. 2. Pliers: Grips, bends, or cuts wires and components. 3. Tweezers: Handles small screws and connectors in tight spaces. 4. Parts Retriever: Picks up small components. 5. Punch-Down Tool: Connects wires in networking tasks. 6. Crimping Tool: Attaches connectors to cables. 7. Wire Stripper: Removes insulation from wires. B. Diagnostic Tools  Purpose: Identify and troubleshoot hardware malfunctions and software errors.  Benefits: Reduces downtime and improves efficiency.  Key Diagnostic Tools: 1. Multimeter: Measures electrical properties such as voltage, current, and resistance.. 2. Power Supply Tester: Checks PSUs. 3. POST Card: Displays error codes during booting. 4. Cable Tester: Tests network cables. 5. Loopback Plug: Tests network ports. C. Cleaning Tools  Purpose: Remove dust and debris from components.  Benefits: Prevents overheating and extends device lifespan.  Key Cleaning Tools:  1. Compressed Air Can: Blows dust from hard-to-reach areas. 2. Soft Brush: Gently removes dust from components. 3. Lint-Free Cloth: Cleans surfaces without scratches. 4. Isopropyl Alcohol: Cleans thermal paste and grime. 5. Vacuum Cleaner (ESD-Safe): Removes dust without static. 6. Cleaning Gel or Putty: Picks up debris from keyboards. D. ESD Tools  Description: Tools to prevent static electricity damage.  Function: Protect sensitive components from static discharge.  Key ESD Tools: 1. Anti-Static Wrist Strap: Grounds the technician. 2. Anti-Static Mat: Provides an ESD-safe workspace. 3. Anti-Static Bags: Store and transport sensitive parts safely. 4. ESD-Safe Gloves: Protect components during handling. 5. ESD Grounding Plug: Grounds mats and straps. 6. Ionizer: Neutralizes static charges in the air. LESSON 2 Terminating and Connecting Electrical Wiring and Electronic Circuits Conductor and Insulator Materials  Conductors: Materials allowing free electron flow (e.g., Silver, Copper, Aluminum).  Insulators: Materials that block electron flow (e.g., Rubber, Plastic). Electrical Wires and Cables  Wires: Single conductor, typically copper or aluminum.  Cables: Two or more insulated wires wrapped together. Types of Electrical Wires  Solid Wire: A single, bare or insulated conductor.  Stranded Wire: Comprises multiple thin strands twisted together; offers enhanced flexibility. Types of Electrical Cables  1. Twisted Pair Cable: Reduces electromagnetic interference; ideal for LANs. 2. Multi-conductor Cable: Contains multiple insulated conductors; protects signal integrity. 3. Coaxial Cable: Inner conductor surrounded by an outer foil conductor; used for video transmission. 4. Fiber Optics Cable: Transmits data via glass threads; greater bandwidth than metal cables. Example Applications  Networking in an Office: Twisted pair cables recommended due to their cost-effectiveness and ability to reduce interference.  High-Speed Internet for a Data Center: Fiber optics cables suggested for their capacity to handle large data transfers over long distances.  Surveillance Camera Installation: Coaxial cables provide minimal signal loss, ensuring durability and reliable performance. Electrical Terminations/Connections Methods  Electrical Termination: A defined endpoint for a conductive device. Types of Termination Methods 1. Soldered Terminations o Advantages: Excellent electrical conductivity, low resistance, suitable for compact designs. o Disadvantages: Time-consuming, vulnerable to thermal stress, not ideal for high-current situations. 2. Crimped Terminations o Advantages: High mechanical strength, quick process, gas-tight connection. o Disadvantages: Requires special tools, potential inspection challenges. 3. Compression Terminations o Advantages: Minimal resistance, reusable, ideal for high-current and voltage applications. o Disadvantages: Time-consuming, requires skillful installation. 4. Wire Wrap Terminations o Advantages: No soldering required, ideal for prototyping.  o Disadvantages: Limited current capacity, prone to signal degradation. 5. Insulation Displacement Terminations (IDTs) o Advantages: Quick installation, no insulation stripping needed. o Disadvantages: Possible signal attenuation, requires careful handling of conductors. Example Applications for Termination Methods  Assembling a Desktop PC: Recommended crimped terminations for reliability and mechanical strength.  Terminal for Patch Panel in a Server Room: IDTs suggested for efficiency and maintaining signal integrity.