Computer Hardware & Maintenance Notes (Sections 7-15)

🎯 Objectives: Computer Hardware & Maintenance Notes (Sections 7-15)

7. Power Supply & Cooling Systems

Power Supply Unit (PSU): This device provides power to all computer parts by converting AC electricity from the wall to the DC power the computer components use.
Example: Without a working PSU, your computer won’t turn on at all.
Fix: If your computer won’t power on, check the PSU connections and test with a known good PSU.
Cooling Fans: Fans move air to cool down components like the CPU and GPU to prevent overheating.
Example: CPU fans keep the processor from getting too hot during heavy tasks.
Fix: Clean dust off fans regularly and replace any that make noise or stop spinning.
Heat Sinks: Metal blocks that absorb and spread heat away from components like the CPU.
Example: A heat sink under the CPU helps keep it cool along with the fan.
Fix: Ensure thermal paste is applied properly between CPU and heat sink for effective heat transfer.
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): A backup battery that keeps your computer running during power outages.
Example: During a blackout, a UPS allows safe shutdown to prevent data loss.
Fix: Test the UPS battery regularly and replace if it cannot hold a charge.

Identifying Components: Know your parts — CPU, motherboard, RAM, power supply, storage, etc.
Example: You need to recognize the RAM sticks vs. the CPU cooler before installation.
Installing the Motherboard: Mount the motherboard inside the case carefully using screws and standoffs.
Fix: Avoid overtightening screws to prevent motherboard damage.
Connecting Cables and Drives: Plug in power, data cables, USB, and front panel connectors correctly.
Fix: Refer to motherboard manual for correct pin layout; wrong connections can cause boot issues.
Safety Precautions: Use anti-static wrist straps to prevent static damage to parts.
Fix: Work on a non-carpeted surface and touch a grounded metal before handling components.

Common Hardware Problems: Examples include no power, computer freezing, strange noises, or overheating.
Fix: Check power connections, clean dust, test individual parts by swapping or using diagnostic tools.
Diagnostic Tools: Software and hardware tools like BIOS tests, memtest86, or multimeters help find faults.
Example: Memtest86 checks RAM for errors.
Preventive Maintenance: Regular cleaning, updating drivers, and monitoring system temps.
Fix: Schedule dust cleaning every 3-6 months, update software to prevent issues.
Cleaning and Dust Removal: Dust clogs fans and heatsinks leading to overheating.
Fix: Use compressed air or soft brushes carefully; avoid liquid cleaners inside the case.

External Keyboards & Mice: Input devices that connect via USB or Bluetooth.
Fix: Replace batteries or update drivers if unresponsive.
Webcams: Cameras for video calls connected through USB.
Fix: Ensure privacy covers are closed when not in use and check permissions in software.
External Storage Devices: USB flash drives or external hard drives for extra storage.
Fix: Safely eject devices before unplugging to avoid data loss.
Game Controllers: Joysticks or gamepads connected via USB or Bluetooth.
Fix: Update controller drivers or reset pairing to fix connection issues.

Network Interface Cards (NIC): Connects your computer to a network via Ethernet or Wi-Fi.
Fix: Update NIC drivers or check cable connections for network issues.
Routers and Switches: Devices that direct traffic between computers in a network.
Fix: Restart router/switch to fix connectivity problems.
Modems: Connect computers to the internet through phone lines or cable.
Fix: Reset modem or check ISP status if internet is down.
Wireless Access Points: Devices that provide Wi-Fi access.
Fix: Position access points for good coverage and update firmware regularly.

Anti-Static Handling: Prevent static electricity from damaging sensitive components.
Fix: Always ground yourself or use an anti-static wrist strap before touching parts.
Proper Cable Management: Arrange cables neatly to avoid damage and improve airflow.
Fix: Use cable ties or Velcro strips and keep cables away from fans and heat sources.
Fire and Electrical Safety: Ensure power sources are safe to avoid accidents.
Fix: Use surge protectors and never overload power outlets.

Understanding BIOS: Basic software that starts your computer and manages hardware settings.
Example: BIOS lets you choose the boot device order.
Configuring BIOS Settings: You can change boot sequence, system time, enable or disable hardware.
Fix: Reset BIOS to default if computer won’t start properly after changes.
Updating Firmware: Installing new BIOS versions can fix bugs or add hardware support.
Fix: Always follow manufacturer instructions carefully to avoid bricking the motherboard.

Booting from Media: Starting your PC from USB or DVD to install an OS.
Example: Use a bootable USB with Windows 10 installation files.
Partitioning Drives: Dividing your hard drive into sections to organize data.
Fix: Back up data before partitioning to avoid loss.
Driver Installation: Drivers help the OS communicate with hardware like printers and video cards.
Fix: Download latest drivers from manufacturer websites for best performance.
System Configuration: Setting preferences like user accounts, time zones, and updates.
Example: Setting a strong password during Windows setup.

IoT Devices: Internet-connected devices like smart home gadgets and wearables.
Example: Smart thermostats that you can control via your phone.
Wearable Technology: Gadgets worn on the body like smartwatches and fitness trackers.
Fix: Keep firmware updated for security and better performance.
Embedded Systems: Specialized computers built into devices like cars, appliances, and industrial machines.
Example: The computer controlling an anti-lock braking system (ABS) in a car.

📖 Reference Book: N/A

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