how to build a computer - training guide (facilitator)

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2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014

Computer Hardware Installation Guide (Facilitator)

How to Build a Computer

2014

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ADDIE Model

The ADDIE Model was used in designing the current training program. The reason why this particular model was chosen is because it provides structured guidance for design, it includes a focus on implementation and evaluation, and it serves as a valuable checklist to complement individual design habits.

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Analyze

Completed a training needs assessment including target audience, design time table, cost,etc. This identifies the scope of the training and what issues need to be taken into consideation before designing the training program.

Design

Designed training program around the needs of the target audience and identified potenital issues such as performance gaps. Illustrated that the program only deals with the mechanical components of a computer and not different types of computer software.Identified 4 key performance objectives all trainees will meet from completing the training.

Develop

Identified the main hardware components to be used in the program and potential troubleshooting solutions in order to overcome any issues in facilitation. Created a hardware manual as a resource to help facilitate better understanding on how to build a computer.Developed guides for both facilitators and trainees to increase effectiveness of instruction and smoothly progress the session.

Implement

Training program is developed and administered to the participantsAfter the completion of the training program, trainees are asked to complete a short survey indicating what part of their training was most important to their learning, how the overall experience was, and a space in which trainees can provide other feedback.

Evaluat

e

Facilitators review the responses from the training evaluation survey from the trainees. This information could be used to evaluate the training program and indicate which parts of the facilitation went well, along with potential areas from improvement.

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ContentsIntroduction..................................................................................................................................................3

Targeted Audience.......................................................................................................................................3

Performance Objectives..............................................................................................................................3

Materials.......................................................................................................................................................4

Session Guide................................................................................................................................................5

Tips for Facilitation.....................................................................................................................................5

Preparation...................................................................................................................................................6

Introduction to How to Build a Computer.................................................................................................7

Defining Key Terms...................................................................................................................................8

Installing the Motherboard........................................................................................................................9

Installing the CPU...................................................................................................................................10

Installing the RAM...................................................................................................................................11

Installing the CD/DVD/Blu-Ray Drive....................................................................................................12

Installing the Hard Drive.........................................................................................................................13

(Optional) Installing the Graphics Processing Unit................................................................................14

Installing the Power Supply.....................................................................................................................15

Hardware Manual......................................................................................................................................18

Key Components - Definitions, Variations and Things to Consider........................................................18

Computer Case.....................................................................................................................................18

Power Supply Connectors....................................................................................................................18

Motherboard........................................................................................................................................18

Graphic Processing Unit.....................................................................................................................19

Central Processing Unit......................................................................................................................19

Random Access Memory......................................................................................................................20

Troubleshooting.......................................................................................................................................20

** All Content for Trainee Guides begins a page prior. (20 ->19)

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Introduction

Computers are important parts of our daily lives. It seems as though everyone living in today’s society uses a computer at least once a day, either at home, work or school. Although most individuals know how to operate a computer, not many know the physical components that make up a computer, leaving them to rely on purchasing pre-built devices and outside technical support services. In recent years however, many consumers and those with an interest in technology have begun to understand the value in a more do-it-yourself (DIY) model. Making their own selections of component that fit their needs, and installing them to create a personal computer, in the truest sense of the word. This change is the issue that this training will address. Specifically, this guide and manual is to educate individuals who are looking to enhance their knowledge of computer hardware, those who are using this training for future employment in the field, and those who simply want to build or repair their home computers. By understanding how a computer works and learning how they are built, this guide will enable a person to be able to better understand the functions of a computer and how to make repairs and/or upgrades in the hardware. Also, to an extent, it can prepare someone to do their own troubleshooting before contacting a professional, all of which could save money. The benefit of this resource is the ability to provide individuals the understanding of how the internal components of a computer work, what parts can be replaced to increase function, and most importantly, how to fix a hardware problem themselves without spending top dollar for repairs at a shop.

This manual provides information and instruction regarding the physical components, or hardware that makes up a computer. It provides information about computer hardware and its purpose, and therefore an understanding of how the devices work. However, the manual does not offer information on software training. Furthermore, this training does not detail how to install hardware connected outside of a computer tower (e.g. monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, speakers). This means that it cannot be expected for anyone reading this manual to understand specific software applications, how to troubleshoot software related issues, or how to install outside hardware components.

Targeted Audience

This training is directed to beginner and intermediate experience levels with computer hardware installation. It is not expected for trainees to know what the components are that make up a computer or their function. It is not expected for trainees to know any steps involved in building their own device. It is expected for trainees to understand the basic uses behind computers; surfing the internet, typing a document, playing a game, watching movies, listening to music, etc…

Performance Objectives

After completing this training all attendees will be able to perform the following objectives;

1. Describe how each component of a computer works; providing specific desired outcomes for an individual building their own computer.

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2. Given the proper parts of a computer, assemble a computer that turns on and operates correctly.

3. Given the various components of a computer, identify the processor, graphics card and other hardware with 100% accuracy.

4. List the hardware components that make up a computer and describe the purpose of each component with 100% accuracy.

Materials

In order to build a computer from scratch, you will need the following parts. Look at the appendices for more detailed information.

1) Computer Case (also called a tower)a) comes in various sizes: b) MicroATX/mini ATX (small case, up to 14” to 16” in height)c) ATX Mid tower (medium case, 18” in height)d) ATX Full (large case, 22” or more in height)

2) A power supply with appropriate wattage (W) a) 550W or higher recommended for a gaming computer (computer built to play mostly

newer and higher end video games)3) Motherboard

a) Will either be an Intel based motherboard, or AMD.i) Make sure it is a match for the case (MicroATX, Mid, or Full)

4) Central Processing Unit (CPU), a) Will either be Intel based or AMDb) Make sure it matches the motherboard (Intel motherboard uses an Intel CPU and vice

versa)5) A Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

a) Comes in two main forms:i) HDD - cheaper, but slower than a Solid State Drive (SSD)ii) SSD - higher cost, but faster and more reliable than a HDD

6) A CD/DVD/Blu-Ray drivea) Will vary depending on needs

7) Random Access Memory (RAM)a) Amount of RAM needed varies on the desired use for the computer, but at least 4

gigabytes (GB) recommended.b) Make sure RAM type is compatible with motherboard

8) Thermal Pastea) sometimes comes with your CPU/heatsink combo, otherwise you will have to buy some

9) Optional: Graphical Processing Unit (GPU)a) If the primary purpose of the computer is to play modern video games, this is highly

recommended to have in it. b) See Manual for more details

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10) Phillips Head Screwdriver11) Needle Nose Pliers

a) Used to straighten bent pins on CPU (only if needed!)

Session Guide

Duration: 2 hour session

Tips for Facilitation

Prior to beginning training session ensure that you are familiar with the training content and guide so that it is not a crutch during facilitation.

Utilize notes for facilitators in each section of the training to assist with smooth and thorough progress through the guide.

Reference the manual in the back of the guide to receive more detail about hardware components and answer possible questions from trainees.

Carefully watch each trainee to ensure proper handling and installation of each component. Learning by doing: this training is hands-on, allow each trainee to learn from the experience of

building their own computer piece by piece. No rush: adjust speed of training to suit experience levels and progress of trainees Have Fun: engage each trainee on a personal level tying how this content can benefit them in

their daily activities. Use stories from your own background and experiences.

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3:00pm - 3:10pm (10min)Training Wrap-up

Trainee Exeperience Survey

1:35pm - 3:00pm (1 hr 20min)Hardware Installation Training

12:30pm - 1:30pm (30min)Introduction to Training

Defining Key Terms

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Preparation

There are a few things that should be done before working on a computer, whether you are building one from scratch, or simply replacing a part.

1) Make sure you have an open, clean workspace. a) Putting a computer together can take up a lot of space.b) Try to make sure the environment is as clean as possible with little dust

i) Dirt/dust can cause issues with certain parts of the computer before they are placed on the motherboard.

c) Keep any liquids/food a good distance from the components when installing them.2) Ground yourself; get rid of any static built up on your person.

a) Touch something metal that is not the computer to discharge any static electricity as the electricity can damage components within the computer.

3) Lay out all of the components in an organized fashion.a) Might not be necessary if you are simply replacing a component or two.b) It is easy to lose track of screws and smaller components.

4) Make sure nothing is close to an edge (such as the edge of the table you are working on).a) Dropping a component is an easy way to break it!

5) Always make sure the computer is turned off and unplugged when working on it.a) Trying to replace a part with the computer on is not only dangerous, but an easy way to

cause damage to not only the computer, but anything you might have stored on the computer.

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Delivery Method/Time

Introduction to How to Build a ComputerNotes for Facilitators

Discussion

20 min SAY: Welcome to the How to Build a Computer! This training is on computer hardware installation, so specifically what components makeup a computer, what they are for, and most importantly how do we put them together. To begin let’s quickly go around the room and find out what experience levels we have here. Start Before/After activity;

Before/After:o Go around the room asking each trainee to

answer the following three questions; 1. First name 2. How experienced are you with computer hardware (beginner, intermediate, expert)? 3. What do they hope to gain from the training?

Ok, so it seems that most of us are beginners or maybe only have some experience with computer hardware. Well that means you’re in the right place. This training will cover everything you need to know about basic computer hardware installation.

State Performance Objectives:

o What will the trainees be able to do after

completing this training?

Go over the session guide

o Walk through the structure of the training

o Reference the manual to be used as a resource

throughout and after the training

Go over notes for preparation

o Ensure all trainees have proper materials and

that workspaces are clear before starting session.

Be outgoing and enthusiastic about the training. Let them feel you are excited to be there.

Don’t stick to the script. Add in your own personal experience, why learning this skill is useful to you.

Feel free to alter or modify an activity to suit each session.

Identify if there is a significant difference between experience levels of trainees. Some may require more guidance than others.

Consistently reiterate component names and functions throughout session.

Supporting Materials

Guide

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Defining Key TermsNotes for Facilitators

Discussion

10 min SAY: So the first thing we are going to do is make use of our hardware manual, which is found after our guide. Turn to page 12 now. ~ On this page all of our key terms are defined. Each hardware component that we will use is listed here, along with more in-depth information for you all to take advantage of after this training ends. Let’s review these terms now;

Review the definitions for each hardware component.o Allow trainees to participate by reading

definitions.o After stating a definition, ask the class how that

specific component affects day-to-day computer use.

Review why knowing the functions of components are useful.o If purchasing a pre-built computer, knowing what

you will use the computer for is only half the battle. You should also know which components are most important to fitting your needs. This will allow you to make more accurate and satisfying decisions as consumers.

Make sure that you familiarize yourself with each component before conducting training.

Be prepared to answer or direct any possible questions.

Keep it simple: Make sure trainees get the basic understanding of each hardware component.

Use practical examples to ensure understanding of each component’s function.


Guide

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Delivery Method

Installing the MotherboardNotes for Facilitators

Guided Instruction

15 min

Note: Sometimes you might want to install the power supply before the motherboard and the rest of the components, sometimes you might want to install it last, or sometimes somewhere in the middle of the process. Cases are built differently, and different styles of cases might make one method easier to do than the other. It is up to your discretion and what you think would be easiest with your case.

1) Make sure your motherboard fits your case (e.g. microATX, ATX)

2) Remove the side panels from the computer case for easier access to the areas needed to install the motherboard.a) Some cases have a motherboard tray (something the

motherboard sits on) that can be removed. If your case has this, remove it for easier installation.

3) Remove the I/O panel shield on the back of the case. This is either a plastic or metal piece where the connectors for the motherboard extend out for your monitor, USB devices, and other peripherals.a) Now that the I/O shield is removed, replace it with the

one that came with the motherboard (if one came with your motherboard).

b) Apply equal pressure to the corners of the panel and it should snap into place.

c) Make sure the panel is installed correctly; compare it to the connectors on the motherboard to make sure it is installed correctly.

4) Now, find the standoffs for your motherboard. Most motherboards will come with their own standoffs, sometimes your case might come with them, too. It is recommended to use the ones that come with the motherboard first.a) These are peg-like screws that have a hole for a screw

on one side and a screw/peg for the other. They keep the motherboard above the case to aid in cooling and to

See Key Terms for more information on the motherboard

Ensure that all workspace is clear, adhering to rules for preparation

Review component definition/function. Give this information to trainees before installation, and then ask for this information from trainees after.


Case Motherboard Screw Driver

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ground the motherboard.5) Install the standoffs in the motherboard tray. Match up the

holes in the tray with the holes in the motherboard to figure out where the standoffs need to be installed. Screw in (or push in if the standoffs are a peg) the standoffs in the motherboard tray.a) Not all motherboards will need every available hole

located in the motherboard tray. Only make sure you use standoffs where there is a hole available on the motherboard. Never use extra standoffs.

6) Now place the motherboard on the standoffs. The holes on the motherboard should line up with the standoffs you installed. If your motherboard tray does not come out of the case, you might need to gently force the motherboard against the I/O panel on the back of the case to fit it. Start to secure the motherboard with screws.a) CAUTION: Do NOT over tighten the screws on the

motherboard. Make sure it is firm but not too tight. Also, do not use an electric screwdriver.

b) If there is a hole that does not have metal around it, a cardboard washer might be needed. If you can, avoid those types of holes altogether.

7) Now that the motherboard is in place, it is time to install the CPU.


Installing the CPUNotes for Facilitators

Guided Instruction

15 min

1) As previously stated, be sure that you have the correct CPU for your motherboard (see appendix under CPU for more details).

2) Ground yourself. Make sure you have no static build up before you remove the CPU from its packaging. A static discharge could damage it.

3) Remove the CPU from its packaging.4) Unlatch the socket cover.

a) Typically a metal cover that has a latch on the side of the CPU socket.

5) Line up the notches or triangle on the CPU with the socket on the motherboard.

See Key Terms for more information on the CPU.

Review component definition/function.


CPU

Thermal Paste

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a) Depending on the CPU, it may either have several notches in one corner, or a triangle to help guide you in correctly installing the CPU.

6) Gently lay the CPU in the socket. Once you have ensured that the CPU is oriented correctly, gently place the CPU directly in the socket. Make sure it is going straight down, never at an angle.a) You should never have to force the CPU into place.

Doing so might bend the pins on the CPU and could potentially ruin the CPU.

7) Relatch the socket cover. Once the CPU is in its socket, close the socket cover and relatch it so the CPU is securely held into place.

8) Apply thermal paste to the CPU. Place a small amount of thermal paste (about the size of a pea) on the top, middle of the CPU.

9) Secure the CPU cooler/heatsink. This process will vary with the type of CPU you have (Intel or AMD).a) Typically, Intel heatsinks attach to the motherboard via

pegs, whereas AMD heatsinks have metal tabs that are installed at an angle.

10) Make sure to plug in the CPU cooler into the CPU_FAN connector on your motherboard. This powers the fan on the cooler and if not connected your computer will shut down from the CPU overheating within minutes.


Installing the RAMNotes for Facilitators

Guided Instruction

15 min

1) Locate your RAM slots on the motherboard. Most motherboards typically have 2 or 4 RAM slots which are usually located near the CPU, though the location may vary based on manufacturer of your motherboard.a) If you are upgrading, remember to remove old RAM to

free up the sockets.2) Remove your RAM from its packaging, making sure to grip

it from the sides to prevent from touching the contacts on the bottom of the RAM.

3) Insert the RAM into the RAM slot. Make sure to line up the notch in the RAM with the break in the slot. Apply equal pressure onto the stick of RAM until the clamps on the side click and lock the RAM in. Pressure will be required, but never force the RAM in.

See Key Terms for more information on the RAM

Review component definition/function


RAM

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Screw Driver a) Repeat this process for each stick of RAM.


Installing the CD/DVD/Blu-Ray DriveNotes for Facilitators

Guided Instruction

10 min

1) Some cases might have a drive bay cover. This is a cover that is removable and is located on the front of your computer case.a) You will have to remove these before installing your

drive.b) Varies by case, typically they will pop out if pressure

is applied to them from the inside of the case.2) Slide your CD/DVD/Blu-Ray drive into the drive bay on

the computer3) Some cases will have tool-free installation, you will know

if your case is such one if it has plastic clamps on the side of the drive bay in your case. If it does not have these, you will need to use screws to secure the drive in place.

4) Most new drives will require a SATA cable to be connected from the drive to a SATA port on the motherboard.a) Older drives will need what is called an IDE connector.

5) Once the SATA cables are connected, connect the power supply to the drives (see power supply section).

See Key Terms for more information on the Optical Drive

Review component definition/functionSupporting

Materials

Optical Drive

Screw Driver

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Installing the Hard DriveNotes for Facilitators

Guided Instruction

15 min

1) If you are replacing a hard drive, you must first remove your old hard drive.a) Make sure all the cables are disconnected from the

hard drive to the power supply and motherboard.b) Unscrew the screws on the sides (or unclamp/slide to

unlocked position the tool free clamps if your case has them) and slide the hard drive out of the housing.

2) Insert your new drive. Remove it from its packaging and slide it into the hard drive housing of your case. The drive should slide directly in and the holes should line up with the screw guides in the housing.a) If you have tool-free clamps, the hard drive should

slide in. Then slide the clamps into the locked position. Skip parts b and c if you had tool-free clamps.

b) Secure the hard drive. Once you have inserted the hard drive, use the screws that came with it to secure it into place. Ideally, you should use screws in both sides.

c) Do not over tighten the screws as this could cause damage.

3) Connect the hard drive to the motherboard. SATA cables resemble USB cables and can be connected in either direction.a) As shown in the CD/DVD section, most new hard

drives will use SATA connectors and power connectors, whereas older drives might use IDE.

b) Make sure to connect your main hard drive into the SATA0 or SATA1 (varies with motherboards) channel, and subsequent hard drives in the channels that follow.

4) Connect the power supply to the hard drive. See Installing the Power Supply for details.

5) Once you are finished building your computer, and it powers on, you will need to install an operating system on your computer in order to use it.a) Examples of operating systems are: Windows 7, 8,

See Key Terms for more information on the Hard Drive



Hard Drive

Screw Driver

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Apple OSX Yosemite, Linux.

Delivery Method

(Optional) Installing the Graphics Processing UnitNotes for Facilitators

Guided Instruction

10 min1) Make sure your motherboard will support your GPU. See

appendix under GPU for details.a) Also make sure your power supply will support your

GPU. Typically the GPU will state the minimum Wattage power supply needed for it to run smoothly and the needed amount of PCI-E connectors.

2) Remove your GPU from its packaging. Make sure to not touch the contacts running along the bottom.

3) Insert the new card directly into the PCIe slot (see appendix under GPU for details).a) Apply even, firm pressure onto the GPU. You should

hear the tab at the base of the PCIe slot click when the card is in place.

b) You may have to remove the neighboring panel on the rear of your case if your new GPU requires two bays.

c) Make sure the screw holes line up with the ones on the chassis.

d) Also make sure that there will be no other cables or other components in the way of the GPU when you are inserting it.

4) Secure the GPU with the provided screws. There will be a hole in the case and one on the chassis of the GPU that should line up for you to insert the screw to secure the GPU into place.a) It is important that the card is securely installed as it

will be lying horizontally when the case is standing and a secure connection will help prevent damage.

5) Plug in the power supply connectors to the GPU.a) Will require one or two 6/8-pin PCI-E connectors.

6) Connect your monitor(s) to one of the display ports on the back of the GPU.a) Will vary based on your monitor (HDMI, DVI, VGA

See Key Terms for more information on the GPU



GPU

Screw Driver

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type connection).7) When you finish building your computer, installing your

preferred operating system, you will need to install the drivers for your GPU. Most GPUs come with a CD that can be used to install the drivers, but you can also visit the manufacturer’s respective website for the drivers (either AMD or nVidia).

Delivery Method

Installing the Power SupplyNotes for Facilitators

Guided Instruction

10 min

1) The purpose of the power supply is a simple yet important one: it will power all of the components of the computer.a) Because of this, make sure that your power supply is

powerful enough to power all of your components or your computer might not run at all.

b) Also make sure you have enough of the proper connectors on the power supply (see appendix under power supply connectors).

c) Make sure it matches your computer case (e.g. ATX mid power supply for an ATX mid case).

2) Place your computer case on its side. This will allow for the easiest access and installation of the power supply.a) Once on its side, open the side panel of the case...

3) Mount the power supply in the case. Most cases have only one way to allow you to slide the power supply into its housing. Make sure any fans on the power supply are not blocked, as this would indicate it is installed incorrectly.a) If there are places to screw in the power supply

(typically on the back of the case) use the screws provided by the power supply to secure it into place.

4) Plug in the connectors. Once you have secured the power supply it is time to start plugging in the many connectors into the various components of the computer.a) Take the 20/24 pin connector (the biggest one of the

power supply) and plug it into the motherboard. This will power the motherboard. Newer motherboards will take a 24-pin, while older ones will take a 20-pin.

b) Now, connect the 12V power to the motherboard. Newer boards will usually take and 8-pin connector, while older boards will take a 4-pin. The job of this connector is to power the computer’s processor and should be clearly marked by either the power supply or

See Key Terms for more information on the Power Supply

Review component definition/functionSupporting

Materials

Power Supply

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the power supply’s documentation.c) Connect the graphics card of your computer (if you

have one). It will require at least one 6 or 8-pin PCI-E connector, which will be labeled as PCI-E by the power supply. Some higher end graphics cards might require two PCI-E connectors.

d) Now connect your drives (SDD, HDD, CD/Blu-Ray). Most will require a SATA power connector. Older drives might require ATA power connectors (check appendix to identify the power connectors).

e) Make sure your USB connectors and case switches are plugged into the motherboard.

f) Finally, connect the fans in your case to your power supply.

5) Once everything is connected, close up the computer case. Plug the power supply into the wall outlet (or surge protector if you use one). Make sure the power supply switch is set to on.

6) Power up the computer. If everything was connected properly, the computer should power up.

CONGRATULATIONS ON BUILDING YOUR OWN COMPUTER!

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Wrapping-up the SessionNotes for Facilitators

Discussion

10 min SAY: Congratulations, you have all just built your own computer! You all did a great job today following my instructions and your guides. Remember that those are yours to keep, take advantage of them as a resource to maintain proper procedure when installing computer hardware components. Again, you all did really great work today. To wrap-up our training, I first want to ask; are there any final questions about the training, installing hardware, a specific component’s function, or anything else from today?

Great. Now, If you turn to the last page of your guides, you will see a survey. This survey is to get some of your thoughts from today’s session. Take your time on these so we can continue to improve our training design and content. Your responses hold a lot of weight in our evaluations. After finishing the survey, take it out of the guide and bring it up to me. After that you are free to go. I hope you all enjoyed yourselves, and thank you for attending today’s training!

Collect the Training Survey from each trainee

Each session will be different. Modify your closing to suit each session respectively.

Thank each trainee for attending as they turn in survey. Answer any final questions.


Guide

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Hardware Manual

The purpose of this manual;

To clearly define terms associated with each hardware component. To provide relevant information regarding variations in types/models for each

component. To provide more in depth information for purchasing and combining hardware

components. To offer solutions and suggestions to common troubleshooting problems associated with

hardware installation.

Use this manual as a resource together with the guide to ensure thorough and accurate working knowledge of computer hardware and installation.

Other resources include; www.logicalincrements.com – a great website for anyone interested in computer building. Has well organized information for beginners and experts.

Key Components - Definitions, Variations and Things to Consider

Computer Case – Also called a tower or box, the computer case physically contains all of the actual components inside of a computer.

Power Supply Connectors - Used for connecting to modern hard drives and CD/DVD drives to power them.

SATA power connectors

1) Older components might require a 4-pin peripheral connector

a) Fans in your case will, typically, also require these types of connectors.

b) If you are putting a GPU into the computer, your power supply will need to have PCI-E power connectors.

c) Some GPUs require two PCI-E connectors

Motherboard – the motherboard connects all of the parts of a computer together.1) Know your motherboard type

a) Intel make or AMD make.

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b) This will tell you what CPU to put in it (either Intel CPU or AMD)

2) Your motherboard will only supports certain types of RAM

a) For example, a motherboard might only support RAM that is 240-pin, DDR3 with speeds of 1866, or 1333.

b) It is important to know this otherwise the RAM you buy might not fit into the motherboard, or not run to its full potential resulting in a slower computer.

Graphic Processing Unit (GPU) – is a specialized electronic circuit designed to rapidly manipulate and alter memory to accelerate the creation of images in a frame buffer intended for output to a display. 1) This will be the biggest part of the computer, make sure you have room in your case for it!

2) Depending on how new it is, will require different slots on motherboard (PCI-E 3.0, 2.0, 1.0).

a) Luckily, they are backwards compatible meaning if your GPU uses PCI-E 3.0, it will work on a PCI-E 2.0 motherboard slot. The only downside is it might run slower.

3) Also make sure your motherboard has the PCI-E slot you need (e.g. PCIe x16)

Central Processing Unit – is responsible for interpreting and executing most of the commands from the computer’s hardware and software.1) Make sure your CPU matches the motherboard (Intel CPU with Intel motherboard, AMD

with AMD).

2) Also check the socket type of your motherboard and CPU.

a) For example, an AMD CPU might say it is an AM3 socket. Make sure you buy a motherboard that supports the AM3 socket type.

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3) Make sure the heatsink you buy is compatible with your CPU

a) If you spend a few extra dollars, you can get a CPU/heatsink combo that takes the guessing out of the whole process.

Random Access Memory (RAM) – is the “working memory” in a computer. RAM allows a computer to work with more information at the same time, which determines total system performance.1) Make sure your RAM is supported by your motherboard, as stated in the motherboard section

of the appendix.

2) Motherboards will only support a certain amount of RAM.

a) E.g. some motherboards will state that the max RAM supported is 16 GB.

Hard Disk Drive - is the main, and usually largest, data storage hardware device in a computer. Most files are stored on the HDD, designated as the “C” drive on most computers by default.

Optical Disc Drive – retrieves and/or stores data on optical discs like CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.

*Definitional information found at; http://pcsupport.about.com/od/termshm/g/hardware.htm

TroubleshootingUnfortunately, especially when working with computers, not everything goes as planned. Even if you are a seasoned veteran when it comes to building a computer, things can go wrong. This section is to try and help with some possible issues that might arise.

Motherboard seems unstable after installing it.

1) Check to make sure all of the standoffs you installed have a screw in them to secure the motherboard.

2) Make sure that every screw is tight, but remember not to make them too tight.3) Make sure you have the correct motherboard for your case.

CPU won’t slide into the socket.

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1) Check that you have the proper CPU for the motherboard you have.

2) Make sure that the notch/triangle on the CPU lines up with the notch/triangle on the socket.

3) Check the CPU pins to see if any were bent.

a) If you see a bent pins, use needle nose pliers to straighten them out.

b) Be careful when doing this, the pins are delicate and can be easily broken, ruining the CPU.

RAM will not fit into the sockets.

1) Look to see if the notch in the RAM is lining up with the break in the motherboard.

2) Make sure the type of RAM you have is supported by your motherboard.

Finished installing everything but computer will not power up.

1) Make sure the computer is plugged in and the power supply switch is set to ON.

2) Make sure everything in the computer is plugged into the power supply, starting with the motherboard.

Computer powers up for a few minutes but then turns off unexpectedly

1) Check to see if the CPU cooler is connected to power.

2) Make sure no wires are in the way of the CPU cooler’s fan.

a) Wires can get caught in the fan, causing it to stop working and overheating the CPU.

3) Make sure the fans in your case are connected to the power supply.

Computer starts up, makes a sequence of beeps then either turns off, enters into a restart loop, or sits at a black screen.

1) Unfortunately, this could be a variety of things.

2) Certain sequences of beeps mean different things from bad RAM, to a failed hard drive, to various other issues.

3) You will have to look up your motherboard on Google and what the beeps it made means.

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