Computer Systems
"Tech Whiz! Hardware and Software servicing. Ready ka na bang maging computer technician? Let's learn the essentials!"
1. Computer Hardware Components š„ļø
Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer that you can touch. Understanding each component is essential for servicing.
| Component | Function | Key Specs |
|---|---|---|
| CPU (Processor) | Brain of computer, processes instructions | GHz speed, cores, threads |
| Motherboard | Main circuit board, connects all parts | Form factor (ATX, mATX, ITX) |
| RAM (Memory) | Temporary storage for active programs | GB capacity, DDR type, MHz speed |
| Storage (HDD/SSD) | Permanent data storage | GB/TB, read/write speed |
| PSU (Power Supply) | Converts AC to DC power | Watts, 80+ rating |
| GPU (Graphics Card) | Renders images and video | VRAM, CUDA cores |
HDD vs SSD:
HDD: Spinning disk, slower, cheaper, larger capacity. SSD: Flash memory, faster, more expensive, no moving parts.
2. Assembly and Disassembly š§
Proper handling and ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) protection is crucial when working with computer components.
Safety Precautions
- ESD Wrist Strap: Ground yourself
- Anti-static mat: Safe work surface
- Power off: Unplug before opening
- Handle by edges: Don't touch circuits
- Organize screws: Don't lose them!
Tools Needed
- Phillips screwdriver: #1 and #2
- Flathead screwdriver: For prying
- Tweezers: For small parts
- Compressed air: For cleaning
- Thermal paste: For CPU heatsink
Assembly Order (Recommended)
- Install CPU on motherboard (align triangle marker)
- Apply thermal paste and mount CPU cooler
- Install RAM (push until clips lock)
- Mount motherboard in case (use standoffs)
- Install storage drives (HDD/SSD)
- Install PSU and connect cables
- Install GPU (if separate)
- Connect front panel cables
3. BIOS/UEFI Configuration āļø
BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI is firmware that initializes hardware before the OS loads.
BIOS vs UEFI
- BIOS: Legacy, text-based, MBR boot
- UEFI: Modern, graphical, GPT boot
- UEFI: Faster boot, Secure Boot
- UEFI: Supports drives >2TB
Common BIOS Keys
- Del / F2: Enter BIOS setup
- F12 / F11: Boot menu
- F8: Safe mode (Windows)
- Esc: Exit/cancel
Common BIOS Settings:
- Boot Order: USB first for OS installation
- Date/Time: System clock settings
- Secure Boot: Enable/disable for Linux
- Virtualization: Enable for VMs
4. Operating System Installation šæ
Installing an Operating System (OS) is a core skill for computer technicians.
Windows Installation Steps
- Create bootable USB (use Media Creation Tool)
- Enter BIOS and set USB as first boot device
- Boot from USB and select language/region
- Click "Install now"
- Enter product key (or skip)
- Choose Custom Install for clean install
- Select/create partition and format
- Wait for installation and reboot
- Complete initial setup (account, settings)
- Install drivers and updates
File Systems
- NTFS: Windows default (supports large files)
- FAT32: USB drives (4GB file limit)
- exFAT: Cross-platform, large files
- ext4: Linux default
Partition Types
- Primary: Bootable partition
- Extended: Container for logical drives
- MBR: Max 4 primary, 2TB limit
- GPT: Unlimited partitions, no size limit
5. Troubleshooting Common Issues š
A good technician can diagnose and fix common computer problems systematically.
| Problem | Possible Causes | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| No power | PSU failure, loose cables | Check outlet, test PSU, reseat cables |
| No display | GPU issue, cable, RAM | Reseat GPU/RAM, check monitor cable |
| Blue Screen (BSOD) | Driver, RAM, HDD failure | Boot Safe Mode, run memtest, chkdsk |
| Slow performance | Low RAM, malware, full storage | Add RAM, scan virus, clean up disk |
| Overheating | Dust, bad thermal paste, fan failure | Clean, reapply paste, replace fan |
POST Beep Codes:
1 short beep: Normal boot. Continuous beep: RAM issue. Long-short beeps: Check motherboard manual for meaning.
6. Networking Basics š
Basic networking knowledge is essential for setting up and troubleshooting internet connections.
Network Components
- Router: Connects networks, assigns IPs
- Switch: Connects devices in LAN
- Modem: Converts ISP signal
- NIC: Network Interface Card
- Ethernet Cable: Cat5e, Cat6
IP Addressing
- IPv4: 192.168.1.1 (4 octets)
- Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
- Gateway: Router IP address
- DNS: Domain Name System
- DHCP: Auto IP assignment
Useful CMD Commands:
- ipconfig: View IP settings
- ping 8.8.8.8: Test connection
- ipconfig /release /renew: Get new IP
- netstat: Network connections
7. Practice Questions & Exam Tips š
Test Your Knowledge:
1. What does RAM stand for and what is its function?
Show Answer
Random Access Memory - Temporary storage for running programs. Data is lost when power is off.
2. What is the difference between HDD and SSD?
Show Answer
HDD uses spinning magnetic disks (slower, cheaper). SSD uses flash memory (faster, more expensive, no moving parts).
3. What key is commonly used to enter BIOS setup?
Show Answer
Delete (Del) or F2 - Press during boot before OS loads.
4. What is ESD and why is it important?
Show Answer
Electrostatic Discharge - Static electricity that can damage sensitive components. Use ESD wrist strap to ground yourself.
5. What Windows file system supports files larger than 4GB?
Show Answer
NTFS (New Technology File System) - Default for Windows. FAT32 has 4GB file size limit.
Exam Tips! CPU (brain), RAM (temp memory), HDD/SSD (storage), PSU (power)
Test Your Knowledge! š§
Ready ka na ba? Take the practice quiz for Computer Systems to reinforce what you just learned.
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