Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) PDF

Chapter 1 Install System Hardware Component Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 1  Objectives 1.1 Explain the features and functions of computer components. 1.2 Outline the importance of Workplace Safety & Health Act. 1.3...

Chapter 1 Install System Hardware Component Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 1  Objectives 1.1 Explain the features and functions of computer components. 1.2 Outline the importance of Workplace Safety & Health Act. 1.3 Explain the safety issues, measures and procedures for installation. 1.4 Describe the procedure for installing computer components. 1.5 Explain the importance of Basic Input Output System (BIOS) / Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) Settings. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 2  Chapter 1.1 Features and functions of computer components Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 3  Topics 1.1 Explain the features and functions of computer components. 1.1.1 Cases and Power Supplies 1.1.2 Motherboards 1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) 1.1.4 Types of memory 1.1.5 Adapter cards and Expansion slots 1.1.6 Hard disk drives and SSDs 1.1.7 Optical storage drives 1.1.8 Internal storage drive interfaces 1.1.9 Internal converter, power and data cables Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 4  What is Computer? A computer system consists of hardware and software components. Hardware is the physical equipment such as 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. Personal computer is a small computer designed for use by a single user at a time. Desktops and Laptops are two types of Personal computer. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 5  Desktop A physical computer unit that consists of a monitor, CPU, keyboard and a mouse. Designed for regular use at one location. Requires main power supply so it can not be portable. It has wide range of screen size. It can have multiple internal drives. It is large in size. Repairing of desktops is easy as compared to laptops. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 6  Laptops Laptops are portable computers that usually run full versions of operating systems such as Microsoft Windows, iOS or Linux. Laptops can have the same computing power and memory resources as desktop computers. Laptops integrate a screen, keyboard, and a pointing device, such as a touchpad, in one portable device. Laptops can be run from an internal battery or from an electrical outlet. They offer connectivity options such as wired or wireless Ethernet networking and Bluetooth. Laptops offer device connection options such as USB and HDMI but may lack the expansion capability of desktops. In order to make laptops more portable, some peripheral connection options may require additional hardware, such as a dock or port replicator. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 7  1.1.1 Cases and Power Supplies Cases Also referred as Computer chassis. The case houses the internal components such as the power supply, motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), memory, disk drives, and assorted adapter cards. The term form factor refers to the physical design and look of a case. Common desktop computers are available in form factors including: ▪ Tower (Mini, Mid-size, Full-size) ▪ Small Form Factor (SFF) case ▪ Slim Line case Slim Line Desktop ▪ Desktop case ▪ All-in-one All-in-one Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 8  1.1.1 Cases and Power Supplies Power Supply Unit (PSU) Computers uses a power supply to convert AC power into a lower voltage DC power required by internal components. Desktop computer power supply form factors include: ▪ Advanced Technology (AT) – Original power supply for legacy computer systems. Considered obsolete. ▪ AT Extended (ATX) – Updated version of the AT. Considered obsolete. ▪ ATX12V – the most common power supply on the market today. It includes a second motherboard connector to provide dedicated power to the CPU. ▪ EPS12V – originally designed for networks servers but is now commonly used in high-end desktop models. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 9  1.1.1 Cases and Power Supplies Common PSU Connectors Type Description Illustration P1 A 20-pin or 24-pin connector that provides power to the motherboard. On some PSUs, the P1 is split into one 20-pin connector and one 4-pin connector which can be combined if required to form a 24-pin connector. ATX12V A 4-pin or 8-pin power connector that goes to the motherboard in (or P4) addition to a 20-pin P1 to supply power to the processor. Molex A 4-pin peripheral power connector that supplies power to IDE disk drives and CD-ROM/DVD drives. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 10  1.1.1 Cases and Power Supplies Common PSU Connectors Type Description Illustration Berg A 4-pin power connector that supplies power to the floppy disk drive (or Mini- (it can also be used as an auxiliary connector for AGP video cards). Molex) Serial ATA This is a 15-pin power connector mainly used for SATA hard drives. PCIe power A 6-pin or (more recently) 8-pin power connector used for PCI Express connector graphics cards. Some 8-pin connections allow for either a 6-pin or an 8-pin card to be connected by using two separate connectors on the same cable (one with 6 pins and another with 2 pins). Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 11  1.1.1 Cases and Power Supplies Power Supply Voltage The different connectors in a power supply also provide different voltages. The most common voltages supplied are 3.3 volts, 5 volts, and 12 volts. The 3.3 volts and 5 volts supplies are typically used by digital circuits, while the 12 volts supply is used to run motors in disk drives and fans. Power supplies can also be single rail, dual rail, or multi rail. A rail is the printed circuit board (PCB) inside the power supply to which the external cables are connected. A computer can tolerate slight fluctuations in power, but a significant deviation can cause the power supply to fail. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 12  1.1.1 Cases and Power Supplies Power Supply Voltage Settings On the back of some power supplies is a small switch called the voltage selector switch. ▪ This switch sets the input voltage to the power supply to either 110V / 115V or 220V / 230V. Dual Voltage Power Supply ▪ A power supply with this switch is called a dual Capacitors voltage power supply. ▪ If a power supply does not have this switch, it automatically detects and sets the correct voltage. CAUTION: Do not open a power supply. Electronic capacitors located inside of a power supply can hold a charge for Power Supply Capacitors extended periods of time. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 13  1.1.1 Cases and Power Supplies Wattage and Voltage There are four basic units of electricity that a computer technician must know: ▪ Voltage (V) – Measured in Volts (V) – The measure of work required to move a charge. ▪ Current (I) – Measured in Amperes(A) – The measure of the amount of electrons moving through a circuit per second. ▪ Resistance (R) – Measured in Ohms (O) – Refers to the opposition to the flow of current in a circuit. ▪ Power (P) – Measured in Watts (W) –The measure of the work required to move electrons through a circuit multiplied by the # of electrons going through the circuit per second. A basic equation, known as Ohm's Law, expresses how voltage is equal to the current multiplied by the resistance: V = IR. In an electrical system, power is equal to the voltage multiplied by the current: P = VI. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 14  1.1.1 Cases and Power Supplies “80 Plus” Certification Voluntary certification program intended to promote efficient energy use in computer power supply units (PSUs). Certifies products that have more than 80% energy efficiency at 20%, 50% and 100% of rated load. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 15  1.1.2 Motherboard The main printed circuit board. Contains the buses, or electrical pathways found in a computer. ▪ Buses allow data to travel among the various components. Also known as the system board, or the main board. Accommodates CPU, RAM, expansion slots, heat sink/fan assembly, chip set, sockets, BIOS, internal and external connectors, various ports, and the embedded wires that interconnect the motherboard components. All devices communicate with CPU on motherboard. A peripheral devices link to motherboard via cable. Input/Output (I/O) ports ▪ Keyboard, mouse, parallel, USB ports, sound ports. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 16  1.1.2 Motherboard Example of a Motherboard - Top View Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 17  1.1.2 Motherboard Example of a Motherboard – Side View (Shows different types of computer interface ports that used to connect various peripheral devices) Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 18  1.1.2 Motherboard Laptop/Desktop Motherboard The compact nature of laptops requires a number of internal components to fit in a small amount of space. ▪ The size restrictions result in a variety of form factors for a number of laptop components, such as the motherboard, RAM, CPU, and storage devices. ▪ Some laptop components, such as the CPU, may be designed to use less power. Desktop motherboards have standard form factors. ▪ The standard size and shape allow motherboards from different manufacturers to fit into common desktop cases. ▪ Laptop motherboards vary by manufacturer and are proprietary. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 19  1.1.2 Motherboard Motherboard Form Factors The form factor of motherboards pertains to the size and shape of the board. It also describes the physical layout of the different components and devices on the motherboard. There are three common motherboard form factors. Advanced Technology eXtended(ATX), Micro-ATX and ITX. The choice of motherboard form factor determines how individual components attach to it, the type of power supply required, and the shape of the computer case. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 20  1.1.2 Motherboard Motherboard Form Factors Advanced Technology eXtended (ATX) - This is the most common motherboard form factor. The ATX case accommodates the integrated I/O ports on the standard ATX motherboard. The ATX power supply connects to the motherboard via a single 20-pin connector. Micro-ATX – This is a smaller form factor that is designed to be backward- compatible with ATX. Micro-ATX boards often use the same Northbridge and Southbridge chipsets and power connectors as full-size ATX boards and therefore can use many of the same components. Generally, Micro-ATX boards can fit in standard ATX cases. However, Micro-ATX motherboards are much smaller than ATX motherboards and have fewer expansion slots. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 21  1.1.2 Motherboard Motherboard Form Factors ITX - The ITX form factor has gained in popularity because of its very small size. There are many types of ITX motherboards; however, Mini-ITX is one of the most popular. The Mini-ITX form factor uses very little power, so fans are not needed to keep it cool. A Mini-ITX motherboard has only one PCI slot for expansion cards. A computer based on a Mini-ITX form factor can be used in places where it is inconvenient to have a large or noisy computer. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 22  1.1.2 Motherboard Motherboard Chipset A set of chips on the Motherboard that manages the data flow between the processor, memory and peripherals. The chipset and motherboard must be compatible with the CPU to prevent system failover. Modern CPUs include memory controllers on the CPU. Chipset manufacturers: AMD, Intel, Nvidia, VIA Technologies, SiS Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 23  1.1.2 Motherboard Motherboard Chipset Most chipsets consist of the following two types: ▪ Northbridge – Controls high speed access to the RAM and video card. ▪ Southbridge – Allows the CPU to communicate with slower speed devices including hard drives, Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, and expansion slots. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 24  1.1.2 Motherboard Motherboard Chipset Memory Controller - The well-known Sandy/Ivy Bridge line of Intel CPUs includes the memory controller on the CPU, but some older chipsets had a separate controller for this. More recent Intel CPUs have integrated the Northbridge and Southbridge into a single controller, called the PCH (platform controller hub), which is effectively a unified Southbridge. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 25  Review Questions: 1 Which power supply form factor that was originally designed for network servers but is now commonly used in high-end desktop? (A) AT (C) EPS12V (B) XT (D) ATX12V 2 Which types of personal computer that can be run from an internal battery or from an electrical outlet? 3 Which power connector would be used to power an IDE hard drive? (A) Molex (C) P1 (B) Mini (D) P8/P9 4 The red wire in Serial ATA connection is rated for what voltage? (A) 12 volts (C) 3.3 volts (B) 5 volts (D) 24 volts Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 26  Review Questions: 5 Which device tests multiple wires of a power supply at the same time? (A) Multimeter (C) Line conditioner (B) Power supply tester (D) Surge protector 6 The diagram shows part of a circuit. What is the reading displayed on the voltmeter? 7 The set of electrical pathways which moves information between the basic components on the motherboard, including between RAM and the CPU? (A) System bus (C) Processor bus (B) Control unit bus (D) Connector bus Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 27  Review Questions: 8 Motherboard are manufactured in a variety of shapes and sizes called ____________. (A) RMS factor (C) Form factor (B) True factor (D) Design factor 9 The _____________ connects to lower-speed peripheral buses. 10 Specific pair of chips on the motherboard is known as ____________. (A) Sockets (C) Slots (B) Buses (D) Chipset 11 A Motherboard is also called ____________. 12 What form factor of motherboard is designed for small devices such as thin client and set-top boxes? Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 28  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) What is CPU? The central processing unit (CPU) is responsible for interpreting and executing commands. It handles instructions from the computer's other hardware, such as a keyboard, and software. The CPU interprets the instructions and outputs the information to the monitor or performs the requested tasks. The CPU is a small microchip that resides within a CPU package. The CPU package is often referred to as the CPU. CPU packages come in different form factors, each style requiring a particular socket on the motherboard. Common CPU manufacturers include Intel and AMD. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 29  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) CPU Socket The CPU socket is the connection between the motherboard and the processor. Modern CPU sockets and processor packages are built around the following architectures: PGA Package of Pentium 4 ▪ Pin Grid Array (PGA) - In PGA architecture, the pins are on the underside of the processor package and is inserted into the motherboard CPU socket using zero insertion force (ZIF). ZIF refers to the amount of force needed to install a CPU into the motherboard socket or slot. ▪ Land Grid Array (LGA) - In an LGA architecture, the pins are LGA 775 Package of in the socket instead of on the processor. Pentium 4 Prescott Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 30  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Common Types of Sockets Pin Grid Array (PGA) Socket - Usually, a square package made up of a number of holes in an array. The CPU itself has the pins that insert into the socket. The arrangement of pins on the CPU must correspond to the slots on the socket; if not, the CPU will not connect properly to the board. If you do not line up the pins properly, you may bend or damage them. PGA Package of Intel PGA Package of AMD Socket 478 or mPGA478B Socket AM4 for AMD Pentium 4 Processor Ryzen 7 Processor for Intel Pentium 4 Ryzen 7 PGA Package Processor Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 31  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Common Types of Sockets Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) Socket - An extension of a PGA socket, with pins on the CPU. With a ZIF socket, you don’t have to press down on the CPU to lock it in place. Instead, you simply place the CPU into the socket, then lock it in using a lever or slider on the side of the socket. This results in less risk of you damaging the CPU when you try to insert or remove it from the socket. PGA-ZIF used in Socket PGA-ZIF used in Socket 478 or mPGA478B for AM4 for AMD Ryzen 3, 5, Intel Pentium 4 Processor 7 Processor Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 32  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Common Types of Sockets Land Grid Array (LGA) Socket - Type of surface-mount packaging for integrated circuits (ICs) that is notable for having the pins on the socket rather than the integrated circuit. LGA sockets are less fragile overall than PGA sockets. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 33  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) CPU Architectures A program is a sequence of stored instructions, and a CPU executes these instructions by following a specific instruction set. There are two distinct types of instruction sets that CPUs may use: ▪ Reduced Instruction Set Computer (RISC) - This architecture uses a relatively small set of instructions. RISC chips are designed to execute these instructions very rapidly. ▪ Complex Instruction Set Computer (CISC) - This architecture uses a broad set of instructions, resulting in fewer steps per operation. While the CPU is executing one step of the program, the remaining instructions and the data are stored nearby in a special, high-speed memory, called cache. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 34  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Enhancing CPU Operation a. Intel processors use Hyper-Threading to enhance the performance of some of their CPUs. ▪ With Hyper-Threading, multiple pieces of code (threads) are executed simultaneously in the CPU so a single CPU performs as though there are two CPUs. b. AMD processors use HyperTransport to enhance CPU performance. ▪ HyperTransport is a high-speed connection between the CPU and the Northbridge chip. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 35  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Enhancing CPU Operation c. The power of a CPU is measured by the CPU speed and the amount of data that it can process. ▪ The speed of a CPU is rated in cycles per second, such as millions of cycles per second, called megahertz (MHz), or billions of cycles per second, called gigahertz (GHz). Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 36  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Enhancing CPU Operation ▪ The amount of data that a CPU can process at one time depends on the size of the Front Side Bus (FSB). This is also called the CPU bus or the processor data bus. Higher performance can be achieved when the width of the FSB increases, much like a roadway can carry more cars when it has many lanes. The width of the FSB is measured in bits. A bit is the smallest unit of data in a computer. Current processors use a 32-bit or 64-bit FSB. d. Overclocking is a technique used to make a processor work at a faster speed than its original specification. ▪ Overclocking is not a recommended way to improve computer performance and can result in damage to the CPU. e. CPU throttling is the opposite of overclocking. It is a technique used when the processor runs at less than the rated speed to conserve power or produce less heat. 37 Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP)  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Enhancing CPU Operation f. CPU virtualization is a hardware feature supported by AMD and Intel CPUs that enables a single processor to act as multiple processors. ▪ With CPU virtualization multiple operating systems can run in parallel on their own virtual machines as if they were running on completely independent computers. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 38  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Multicore Processors Multicore processors have two or more processors on the same integrated circuit. Integrating the processors on the same chip creates a very fast connection between them. ▪ Multicore processors execute instructions more quickly than single- core processors. Instructions can be distributed to all the processors at the same time. ▪ RAM is shared between the processors because the cores reside on the same chip. ▪ Multicore processors conserve power and produce less heat than multiple single-core processors, thus increasing performance and efficiency. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 39  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Multicore Processors Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 40  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Multicore Processors Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 41  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Multicore Processors Another feature found in some CPUs is an integrated graphics processing unit or GPU. The GPU is a chip that performs the rapid mathematical calculations required to render graphics. A GPU can be integrated or dedicated. ▪ Integrated GPUs are often directly embedded on the CPU and is dependent on system RAM while the dedicated GPU is a separate chip with its own video memory dedicated exclusively for graphical processing. ▪ The benefit of integrated GPUs is cost and less heat dissipation. ▪ Integrated GPUs are good at less complex tasks like watching videos and processing graphical documents but are not best suited for intense gaming applications. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 42  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Cache Memory A cache is a smaller, faster memory, closer to a processor core, which stores copies of the data from frequently used main memory locations. Divided into three main levels: ▪ Level 1 (L1) cache. Fastest memory that is present in a computer system. In terms of priority of access, L1 cache has the data the CPU is most likely to need while completing a certain task. ▪ Level 2(L2) cache. Slower than L1 cache, but bigger in size. Its size typically varies between 256KB to 8MB. Holds data that is likely to be accessed by the CPU next. ▪ Level 3 (L3) cache. It feeds information to the L2 cache, which then forwards information to the L1 cache. Slower compared to L2 cache, but is still faster than the main memory (RAM). Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 43  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) CPU Cooling Mechanisms Case Fan ▪ A case fan is used to increase the air flow in the computer case and allows more heat to be removed. ▪ Some cases have multiple fans with cool air being brought in, while another fan is blowing out hot air. CPU Heat Sink ▪ A heat sink has a large surface area with metal fins in order to draw heat away from the CPU and dissipate it into the surrounding air. ▪ Thermal compound should be applied to the CPU to ensure the CPU has maximum contact with heatsink and improved heat dissipation. A CPU heat sink without a fan is known as “passive cooling”. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 44  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) CPU Cooling Mechanisms CPU Fan ▪ It is common to install a fan on top or within a heat sink in order to move heat away from the metal fins. ▪ A CPU heat sink with a fan is known as “active cooling”. Graphics Card Cooling System Graphics Card Cooling System ▪ Video adapter cards have a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) that generates excessive heat. Water Cooling System ▪ A metal plate is placed over the processor and water is pumped over the top to collect the heat the processor generates. ▪ The water is pumped to a radiator to disperse the heat into the air and then the water is recirculated. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 45  1.1.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU) CPU Cooling Mechanisms Thermal Design Power (TDP) ▪ Sometimes called thermal design point. The TDP number tells you the maximum heat a computer chip, such as a CPU or GPU, use in watts. It also is often used as a basic indicator of power consumption. ▪ More watts equals better performance, but also higher temperatures and more power consumption. PC OEMs can sometimes lower the TDP on a chip to Increase battery life on a laptop or raise it up to boost speed. ▪ When buying CPU, check out your CPU’s TDP to determine what kind of CPU cooler you need and to make sure you have a PSU (power supply unit) that provides enough power. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 46  1.1.4 Types of Memory A computer might use different types of memory chips. All memory chips 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) Is nonvolatile which means that the contents are not erased when the computer is powered off. An essential computer chip is the read-only memory (ROM) chip. ROM chips are located on the motherboard and other circuit boards and contain instructions that can be directly accessed by a CPU. The instructions stored in ROM include basic operation instructions such as booting the computer and loading the operating system. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 47  1.1.4 Types of Memory Types of ROM Types Description Read Only Memory Information is written to a ROM chip when it is manufactured. A ROM chip (ROM) that cannot be erased or re-written is now obsolete. Programmable Read Information on a programmable read-only memory chip is written after it is Only Memory (PROM) manufactured. PROMs are manufactured blank and then can be programmed by a PROM programmer when needed. Generally, these chips cannot be erased and can only be programmed once. Erasable Programmable Is non-volatile but can be erased by exposing it to strong ultraviolet light. Read Only Memory EPROMs usually have a transparent quarts windows on the top of the chip. (EPROM) Constant erasing and reprogramming could ultimately render the chip useless. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 48  1.1.4 Types of Memory Types of ROM Types Description Electrically Erasable Information is written to an EEPROM chip after it is manufactured and without Programmable Read removing it from the device. It also called Flash ROMs since its contents can Only Memory (EEPROM) be “flashed” for deletion. EEPROMs are often used to store a computer system’s BIOS. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 49  1.1.4 Types of Memory Random Access Memory (RAM) Temporary working storage for data and programs that are being accessed by the CPU. RAM is volatile memory More RAM means more capacity to hold and process large programs and files, as well as enhance system performance. Adding more RAM in a computer enhances the system performance. However, the maximum amount of RAM that can be installed is limited by the motherboard. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 50  1.1.4 Types of Memory Types of RAM Types Description Dynamic RAM Older technology, popular until the mid-1990s. (DRAM) Used for main memory. DRAM gradually discharges energy so it must be constantly refreshed with pulses of electricity in order to maintain the stored data in the chip. Synchronous DRAM that operates in synchronous with the memory bus. Dynamic RAM Able to process overlapping instructions in parallel – e.g. It can process a read before a write has been completed. (SDRAM) Higher transfer rates. Double Data Transfers data twice as fast as SDRAM. Rate SDRAM Able to support two writes and two reads per CPU clock cycle. Connector has 184 pins and a single notch. (DDR SDRAM) Uses lower standard voltage (2.5 V). Family: DDR2, DDR3, DDR4 Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 51  1.1.4 Types of Memory Types of RAM Types Description DDR2 Also transfers data twice as fast as SDRAM. SDRAM Runs at higher clock speeds than DDR (553 MHz vs. DDR at 200 MHz). Improves performance by decreasing noise and crosstalk between signal wires. Connector has 240 pins. Uses lower standard voltage (1.8 V). DDR3 Expands memory bandwidth by doubling the clock rate of DDR2. SDRAM Consumes less power than DDR2 (1.5 V). Generates less heat. Runs at higher clock speeds (up to 800 MHz). Connector has 240 pins. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 52  1.1.4 Types of Memory Types of RAM Types Description DDR4 Quadruples DDR3 maximum storage capacity. SDRAM Consumes less power than DDR3 (1.2 V). Runs at higher clock speeds (up to 1600 MHz). Connector has 288 pins. Available with advanced error correction features such as error-correcting code memory (ECC memory) to detect multiple bit errors. GDDR The “G” stands for Graphics. SDRAM RAM specifically designed for video graphics. Used in conjunction with a dedicated GPU. Family: GDDR, GDDR2, GDDR3, GDDR4, GDDR5. Each family member improves performance. Each family member lowers power consumption. Processes massive amounts of data but not necessarily at the fastest speeds. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 53  1.1.4 Types of Memory Types of RAM Types Description Static RAM Requires constant power to function. (SRAM) Often used for cache memory. Uses lower power consumption. Much faster than DRAM. More expensive than DRAM. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 54  1.1.4 Types of Memory Memory Modules Memory chips are soldered to a circuit board to create a memory module which is placed into a memory slot on the motherboard. Types of Memory Modules: DIP – Dual Inline Package is an individual memory chip. A DIP has dual rows of pins used to attach it to the motherboard. SIMM – Single Inline Memory Module is a small circuit board that holds several memory chips. SIMMs have 30-pin or 72-pin configurations. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 55  1.1.4 Types of Memory Types of Memory Modules: DIMM – Dual Inline Memory Module is a circuit board that holds SDRAM, DDR SDRAM, DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM, and DDR4 SDRAM chips. SDRAM Packages: ▪ DIMM 168-pin (SDRAM) ▪ DIMM 184-pin (DDR SDRAM) ▪ DIMM 240-pin (DDR2 SDRAM & DDR3 SDRAM) ▪ DIMM 288-pin (DDR4 SDRAM) Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 56  1.1.4 Types of Memory Types of Memory Modules: SODIMM – Small Outline DIMM is a Smaller version of DIMM, commonly used in laptops, all-in-ones, and other small form factor PCs. SODIMM SDRAM Packages: ▪ 144-pin used for SODIMM SDRAM ▪ 200-pin used for SODIMM DDR SDRAM and SODIMM DDR2 SDRAM ▪ 204-pin used for SODIMM DDR3 SDRAM ▪ 260-pin used for SODIMM DDR4 SDRAM Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 57  1.1.4 Types of Memory Memory Error Checking Methods Memory errors occur when the data is not stored correctly in the memory chips. The computer uses different methods to detect and correct data errors in memory. Different Types of Error Checking Methods include: ▪ Nonparity – Nonparity memory does not check errors in memory. ▪ Parity – Parity memory contains 8 bits for data and 1 bit for error checking. ▪ ECC – Error Correction Code memory can detect multiple bit errors in memory and correct single bit errors in memory. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 58  1.1.4 Types of Memory Memory / DIMM Slots Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 59  1.1.4 Types of Memory Dual Channel Memory Architecture (Multi-Channel Memory) Requires a dual-channel-capable motherboard and two or more DDR, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4 memory modules. The memory modules are installed into matching banks, which are usually color-coded on the motherboard. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 60  1.1.4 Types of Memory Dual Channel Memory Architecture (Multi-Channel Memory) Dual-channel-enabled memory controllers in a PC system architecture utilize two 64-bit data channels by combining it into a single 128-bit bus. Identical memory modules are not required but are often recommended for best dual-channel operation. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 61  1.1.4 Types of Memory RAM Speed/Frequency The amount of time that it takes RAM to receive a request from the processor and then read or write data. Generally, the faster the RAM, the faster the processing speed. With faster RAM, you increase the speed at which memory transfers information to other components. Meaning, your fast processor now has an equally fast way of talking to the other components, making your computer much more efficient. RAM speed is measured in Megahertz (MHz), millions of cycles per second, so that it can be compared to your processor's clock speed. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 62  1.1.4 Types of Memory RAM Speed/Frequency Some examples of designation of DDR Modules Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 63  Review Questions: 1 Which type of memory is volatile and therefore loses its contents if not continuously powered by electricity? (A) RAM (C) CPU (B) ROM (D) BIOS 2 Which of the following types of ROM cannot be changed once the program has been stored there? (A) RAM (C) EEPROM (B) PROM (D) All of the above 3 Which level of cache is the fastest but has the smallest capacity? (A) Level 1 (C) Level 3 (B) Level 2 (D) Level 4 4 How is the core speed of a processor measured? (A) Gigabytes (GB) (C) Millions of Instructions Per Second (MIPS) (B) Gigahertz (GHz) (D) Gigabits per second (Gbps) Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 64  Review Questions: 5 If you find a 240-pin DIMM, what kind of RAM can you assume it is? (A) SDR (C) DDR (B) DDR2 (D) DDR3 6 An example of an active cooling system is a _________________. (A) Case Fan (C) Water Cooling System (B) Heat sink with Fan (D) Graphics card cooling system 7 What is the technique used when the processor runs at less than the rated speed to conserve power or produce less heat? (A) Overclocking (C) CPU Virtualization (B) Hyper-Threading (D) CPU Throttling 8 How many instructions per second can a CPU with a clock speed of 2.5 GHz process? (A) 2.5 Million (C) 3.0 Trillion (B) 2.5 Billion (D) 2,000,000 Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 65  1.1.5 Adapter Cards and Expansion Slots Adapter Cards Adapter cards increase the functionality of a computer by adding controllers for specific devices or by replacing malfunctioning ports. ▪ Sound adapter – Provides audio capability. ▪ Network Inteface Card (NIC) – Connects a computer to a network using a network cable. ▪ Wireless NIC – Connects a computer to a network using radio frequencies. ▪ Video Adapter – Provides video capability. ▪ Capture card – Sends a video signal to a computer so that the signal can be recorded to a storage drive with video capture software. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 66  1.1.5 Adapter Cards and Expansion Slots Adapter Cards ▪ TV tuner card – Provides the ability to watch and record television signals on a PC by connecting a cable television, satellite, or antenna to the installed tuner card. ▪ Universal Serial Bus (USB) controller card – Provides additional USB ports to connect the computer to peripheral devices. ▪ eSATA card - Adds additional internal and external SATA ports to a computer through a single PCI Express slot. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 67  1.1.5 Adapter Cards and Expansion Slots Adapter Cards Sound Adapter NIC eSATA card Video Adapter Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 68  1.1.5 Adapter Cards and Expansion Slots Expansion Slots Refers to any of the slots on a motherboard that can hold an expansion card to expand the computer's functionality, like a video card, network card, or sound card. ▪ PCI – Peripheral Component Interconnect is a 32- bit or 64-bit expansion slot. Become mostly obsolete. ▪ Mini-PCI – Smaller version of PCI found in some laptops. It has three different form factors: Type I, Type II, and Type III. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 69  1.1.5 Adapter Cards and Expansion Slots Expansion Slots ▪ PCI-X – PCI eXtended is an updated version of the standard PCI. It uses a 32-bit bus with higher bandwidth than the PCI bus. It can operate up to four times faster than PCI. Become mostly obsolete. ▪ Riser card – Provides additional expansion slots for more expansion cards. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 70  1.1.5 Adapter Cards and Expansion Slots Expansion Slots ▪ AGP – Accelerated Graphics Port was a high- speed slot for attaching an AGP video card. The AGP has been superseeded by PCI. ▪ PCIe – Uses a serial bus that has higher throughput and many other improvements over the older expansion slots. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 71  1.1.5 Adapter Cards and Expansion Slots Expansion Slots ▪ PCIe – PCIe has x1, x4, x8, x16 slots which vary in length from shortest to longest, respectively. PCIe X1. Connections have one data lane. PCIe X4. Connections have four data lanes. PCIe X8. Connections have eight data lanes. PCIe X16. Connections have sixteen data lanes. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 72  1.1.5 Adapter Cards and Expansion Slots Expansion Slots ▪ PCIe Performance Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 73  1.1.5 Adapter Cards and Expansion Slots Adapter cards and Expansion slots Different sized cards support different maximum PCI-Express lanes. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 74  1.1.6 Types of Storage Devices Data drives provide non-volatile storage of data, meaning that when the drive loses power, the data is retained and available the next time the drive is powered on. Data storage devices can be classified according to the media on which the data is stored; magnetic like HDD and tape drives, solid state, or optical. Hard Disk Drive Optical Drive Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 75 Solid State Drive Tape Drive  1.1.6 Types of Storage Devices Magnetic Media Storage One type of storage represents binary values as magnetized or non- magnetized physical areas of magnetic media. Mechanical systems are used to position and read the media. Common Types of Magnetic Media Storage Drives: ▪ Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Traditional Magnetic disk devices. Storage capacity ranges from GBs to TBs. Speed is measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). 3.5 inch 2.5 inch 1.8 inch Common hard drive spindle speeds include 5400, 7200, 10,000 and 15,000 RPM. HDD Form Factors HDDs come in 1.8, 2.5, and 3.5 inch form factors. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 76  1.1.6 Types of Storage Devices Magnetic Media Storage Common Types of Magnetic Media Storage Drives: ▪ Tape Drive Magnetic tapes are most often used for archiving data. Tape backups are still use in enterprise networks. Common storage capacities vary between a few GBs to TBs. Data retrieval can be fast, locating specific data is slow because the tape must be wound on a reel until the data is found. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 77  1.1.6 Types of Storage Devices Semiconductor Storage Solid-State Drives (SSD) store data as electrical charges in semiconductor flash memory. This makes SSDs much faster than magnetic HDDs. SSD storage capacity ranges from around 120 GBs to TBs. No moving parts, make no noise, more energy efficient, and produce less heat than HDDs. More reliable than HDDs because it has no moving parts. Three form factors: ▪ Disc drive form factor – The semiconductor memory is in closed package that can be mounted in computer cases like an HDD. Sizes can be 2.5, 3.5 and 1.8 inches. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 78  1.1.6 Types of Storage Devices Semiconductor Storage Three form factors: ▪ Expansion cards Plugs directly into the motherboard and mounts in the computer case like other expansion cards. ▪ M.2 modules SSD Adapter card Requires no power and data cables, making installation complete without the need for cable management. The M.2 modules are 22-mm wide and come in a number of lengths, including 30, 42, 60, 80 and 110-mm. Motherboards can usually handle different-length M.2 modules, but 80 mm is the typical size for a flash memory module. Supports both SATA and PCIe interfaces. M.2 is a standard for computer expansion cards. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 79  1.1.6 Types of Storage Devices Semiconductor Storage The Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) specification was developed specifically to allow computers to take greater advantage of the features of SSDs by providing a standard interface between SSDs, the PCIe bus, and operating systems. NVMe allows compliant SSD drives to attach to the PCIe bus without requiring special drivers. Solid State Hybrid Drives (SSHDs) are a compromise between a magnetic HDD and an SSD. ▪ They are faster than HDD but less expensive than SSD. ▪ They combine a magnetic HDD with onboard flash memory serving as a non-volatile cache. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 80  1.1.7 Types of Storage Devices Optical Storage Devices Optical drives are removable media storage devices that use lasers to read and write data on optical media. They were developed to overcome the storage capacity limitations of removable magnetic media such as floppy discs. There are three types of optical drives: ▪ Compact Disc (CD) - audio and data ▪ Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) - digital video and data ▪ Blu-ray Disc (BD) - HD digital video and data Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 81  1.1.7 Types of Storage Devices Optical Storage Devices CD, DVD, and BD media can be pre-recorded (read only), recordable (write once), or re-recordable (read and write multiple times). DVD and BD media can also be single layer (SL) or dual layer (DL). Dual layer media roughly doubles the capacity of a single disc. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 82  1.1.8 Internal Storage Drive Interfaces Storage Device Interfaces Storage devices inside a computer connect to the motherboard using Serial AT Attachment (SATA) connections. The legacy interface is Parallel ATA (EIDE). The interface standards define the way that data is transferred, the transfer rates, and physical characteristics of the cables and connectors. There are three main versions of the SATA standard: SATA 1, SATA 2, and SATA 3. The data cables and connectors are the same, but the data transfer speeds are different. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 83 Connectors  1.1.8 Internal Storage Drive Interfaces Storage Device Interfaces Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) is another interface between motherboards and data storage devices. It is an older standard that originally used parallel, rather than serial, data transfers. A new version of SCSI known as Serially Attached SCSI (SAS) has been developed. SAS is a popular interface used for server storage. SAS connectors Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 84  1.1.8 Internal Storage Drive Interfaces Storage Device Interfaces M.2 Key – An M.2 SSD is keyed in order to prevent incorrect insertion of an M.2 SSD to an incompatible socket on the host industrial motherboard. M.2 SSD typically use three common keys: B, M and B+M key. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 85  1.1.8 Internal Storage Drive Interfaces Storage Device Interfaces M.2 SSD Common Key Types: ▪ B Key – Has a six pins gap at the left side of the card, and the right side is the host controller. Common usage: SATA, PCIe x2, and SSD Interface support: PCIe x2, SATA, USB 2.0/3.0, UIM, HSIC, SSIC, I2C, and SMBus ▪ M Key – Has a five pins gap at the right side of the card, and the left side is the host controller. Common usage: PCIe x4 and NVMe SSD Interface support: PCIe x4, SATA, and SMBus Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 86  1.1.8 Internal Storage Drive Interfaces Storage Device Interfaces M.2 SSD Common Key Types: ▪ B+M Key – Combination of both B Key and M Key with 6 pins gap at the left, 5 pins gap at the right side of the card, and the center is the host controller. B+M Key is compatible with both the B key and M key slots on the motherboard M.2 interface. Because of the physical design, B+M Key cards are limited to PCIe x2 speeds. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 87  1.1.8 Internal Storage Drive Interfaces Storage Device Interfaces M.2 Slot – Some motherboard M.2 slots support either SATA-bus or PCI Express-bus M.2 drives on the same slot. Others support only SATA M.2 drives, and others support only PCIe M.2 drives. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 88  1.1.9 Internal converter, power and data cables Power and Data Cables Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE) – IDE cable is a ribbon cable used to connect storage drives inside the computer. The two most common types of IDE ribbon cables are the 34-pin cable used for floppy drives and the 40-pin cable for hard drives and optical drives. It uses Molex to power the drive. Serial AT Attachment (SATA) – SATA cable connects SATA devices to the SATA interface using a 7-pin data cable. SATA connectors have an L-shaped slot so the cable only fits in one orientation. This cable does not supply any power to the SATA device. A separate SATA power cable provides power to the drive. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 89  1.1.9 Internal converter, power and data cables Converter/Adapter Molex to SATA adapter – This is used to connect a SATA drive to a Molex power cable. Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 90  Review Questions: 1 This adapter sends a video signal to a computer so that the signal can be recorded. (A) Video adapter (C) Capture card (B) TV Tuner (D) Screen recorder 2 This expansion slot has x1, x4, x8 and x16 slots. (A) PCI (C) PCI-X (B) PCIe (D) ePCI 3 Which one is a card that adds additional expansion slots to a computer? (A) USB (C) Riser (B) SATA (D) eCard 4 Which one is a laptop expansion slot that has Type I, Type II, and Type III form factors? (A) Mini-PCI (C) AGP (B) ISA (D) PCI-X Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 91  Review Questions: 5 A user has a backup file that is 8.6GB and wants to save the entire file on one disc. Which of the following types of discs is the MINIMUM required to save the entire file? (A) DVD-R (C) BD-R (B) Single-layer DVD (D) Dual-layer DVD 6 Which of the following M.2 SSD key types supports PCIe x4 interfaces? (A) A Key (C) E Key (B) B Key (D) M Key 7 The SSD technology that allows compliant SSD drives to attach to the PCIe bus without requiring special drivers is called _____________. (A) SSHD (C) NVMe (B) SATA (D) AHCI 8 What does the “2280” on M.2 module means? Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 92  Revision History Version Date Revision Author Summary of Changes 1.0 29/01/2022 Benjamin Muico Nil 1.1 24/06/2022 Benjamin Muico Added revision questions Computer Maintenance (SN43001FP) 93