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IT Essentials Lab 2: Computer Assembly ​

Power Supply ​

The power supply converts electrical power from an outlet (AC) into usable power (DC) for the internal components of the computer.

Motherboard ​

The motherboard is the computer's main circuit board. It includes several essential components:

  • Central Processing Unit (CPU): Executes instructions and processes data.
  • Random Access Memory (RAM): Temporary memory for active tasks.
  • Read Only Memory (ROM): Stores permanent data for system functions.
  • Cooling Components:
    • Fans: Releases the heat away from the motherboard.
    • Heat Sink: Draws heat away from the CPU.
  • Expansion Slots: For additional hardware.
  • Chipset: Controls communication between CPU, memory, and peripherals.

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) ​

BIOS is firmware that initializes hardware during the boot process (power-on startup). It is the first software to run upon powering on the system. Access the BIOS setup by pressing keys such as F1, F2, F10, Del, or Esc.

Cooling System ​

  • Heat Sink: Directly attached to the CPU to absorb and release the heat from the CPU away.
  • Fan: Mounted above the heat sink to further cool down the CPU.

CPU (Central Processing Unit) ​

The CPU, also called the processor, is the brain of the computer. It fits into a socket on the motherboard, with two primary types:

  • Pin Grid Array (PGA): Pins on the CPU connect to holes in the socket.
  • Land Grid Array (LGA): Pins are located on the socket, and the CPU has flat contact points.

Memory Types ​

  • Read-Only Memory (ROM): Permanent memory that permanently stores essential data.
  • Random Access Memory (RAM): Temporary memory used to temporarily store data for active processes.

Storage ​

  • HDD (Hard Disk Drive): A traditional, electro-mechanical data storage device with spinning disks.
  • SSD (Solid State Drive): A faster, more durable storage option with no moving parts, up to 5x faster than HDDs.
  • M.2 SSD: An advanced storage interface utilizing PCI Express, ideal for high-speed storage.

Expansion Slots and Adapter Cards ​

Expansion slots allow for adding hardware to the motherboard:

  • PCI: Peripheral Component Interconnect.
  • AGP: Advanced Graphics Port.
  • Mini PCI: Commonly used in laptops.

Adapter Cards:

  • Video Card: Enhances graphical performance.
  • NIC (Network Interface Card): For wired network connectivity.
  • Wireless NIC: For wireless network connectivity.

Software Installation ​

  • Baidu Spark Browser: Install for specific browsing needs.
  • IT Essentials Virtual Desktop: Install for lab and practical applications.

Computer Assembly Steps ​

  1. Open the Case.
  2. Install the Power Supply.
  3. Attach Components: Connect CPU, RAM, and other components to the motherboard.
  4. Install Motherboard: Secure the motherboard in the case.
  5. Install Internal and External Drives: Add HDDs, SSDs, optical drives, etc.
  6. Install Adapter Cards: Add video, network, or other adapter cards.
  7. Connect Internal Cables: Power, data, and peripheral cables.
  8. Reattach Side Panels: Close the case and connect external cables for monitor, keyboard, mouse, etc.