11

COMPUTER SYSTEMS
SERVICING
Quarter 1
Week 6 & 7
Assemble Computer Hardware:
Assembling and Disassembling A
Computer Unit
 COMPUTER SYSTEMS SERVICING (CSS) 11
Quarter 1 - Week 6 & 7

Topic: Installing and Configuring Computer Systems (TLE_IACSS912ICCS-Ia-e-28)

Performance Standard: The learners shall be able to install and configure computer systems based
on established procedures and system requirements.

Target Competency: LO 1. Assemble Computer Hardware: Assembling and Disassembling A

Computer Unit

Objectives: At the end of the lesson, you are expected to:

1. identify the different tools and equipment used in computer systems and networks;
2. determine the different use and functions of these tools and equipment;
3. determine and follow the correct procedure in the computer hardware
assembling and disassembly.

Information Sheet:

Welcome to the Computer Systems Servicing 11 Self Learning Module (SLM) on Installing and
Configuring Computer System (ICCS) – Assembling and Disassembling A Computer Unit! This is a
self-paced learning material in which you should comply before the deadline of submission is about
to end.

PC assembly and disassembly appear to be difficult tasks; however, once you get used to it,
you will realize that it is easier said than done. After reading this article, you should be able to assemble
and disassemble a computer on your own. As a result, you believe that assembling and disassembling a
PC is within your comfort zone. You must be careful to place the correct parts in the correct locations
and ensure that all screws are properly tightened. PC assembly and disassembly appear to be difficult
tasks; however, once you get used to it, you will realize that it is easier said than done. After reading
this article, you should be able to assemble and disassemble a computer on your own. As a result, you
believe that assembling and disassembling a PC is within your comfort zone. You must be careful to
place the correct parts in the correct locations and ensure that all screws are properly tightened.

ACTIVITY 1
Let us check on your prior learning about this topic. Please take the Pre-assessment below.
Directions: Read the following statements carefully then choose the best answer from the given
choices. Write only the letter of your answer in your activity notebook.
1. What part of your computer has a physical structure, like the monitor keyboard and other
peripherals?
A. hardware C. operating system
B. Microsoft office D. software

2. What part of the computer is shown in the picture?

A. floppy disk drive C. Optical disk drive
B. microprocessor D. system Unit

3. From what location are the first computer instructions available on boot up?
A. boot.ini C. CPU
B. config.sys D. ROM BIOS

4. What type of computer uses battery or AC-powered that are more portable than desktop computers,
allowing you to use them almost anywhere?
A. desktop C. personal computer
B. laptop D. server

5. Which of the following are types of computer hardware?

A. video card, motherboard, printer, monitor
B. laptop, USB Flash drive, Microsoft office Tools, & mouse
C. opera, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer
D. Microsoft office, Adobe Photoshop, Wondershare Filmora, Kotobee

6. Suppose that you have the maintenance package that identifies several possible field replaceable
units (FRUs) to resolve the problem, what should you do first after turning off the power?
A. Replace all the indicated FRUs at once and return the machine
to the customer if the problem is resolved.
B. Replace the system board first. If multiple RFUS indicated, then possibly the software is
source of the problem.
C. Replace all the indicated FRUs twice and return the machine to
the customer if the problem is unresolved.
D. Replace the indicated parts, one at a time in the recommended sequence, until the problem
is resolved; return unused FRUs to storage area.

7. Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) would cause the most damage to which component?
A. expansion board C. monitor
B. keyboard D. power supply

8. Most PCs give a single beep on bootup to indicate that hardware is okay. What should you check
first if you boot your PC and do not get a beep?
A. microprocessor C. power supply
B. motherboard D. speaker

9. It is a handheld hardware input device that controls a cursor in a GUI (graphical user interface)
and can move and select text, icons, files, and folders on your computer.
a. keyboard b. flash drive c. mouse d. monitor

10. What computer hardware converts high voltage alternating current (AC) power into the lower
voltage direct current (DC) power that the motherboard and drives need?
 A. hard Disk C. motherboard
B. memory D. power supply

Reminder: Taking an independent study course is very different from taking a course in a
classroom. Instead of relying on the teacher to tell you to complete a learning activity or an
assignment, you must tell yourself to be responsible for your learning and for meeting deadlines.

Before carrying out a well-planned computer assembly and disassembly, it is critical to be

familiar with the various tools and equipment used in computer systems and networks. Furthermore,
the concept of how these tools and equipment are properly used, as well as another important
consideration in computer system installation.

Before we proceed, let us have first a short review of our previous topic.

ACTIVITY 2. Naming Computer Parts. Identify or name the following pictures of computer
parts given. Write your answer in your CSS Activity Notebook.

PORTS / CONNECTORS NAME

1.
6.

2. 7.

3.
8.

9.
4.
 5. 10.

Observe the image below. What tools and equipment do you notice? Is she hadling the computer
parts in the correct manner?

Image 1.2.a Computer Assembling. Image Source: https://www.fieldengineer.com/skills/what-is-a-pc-technician

Be guided with the following questions when assembling and disassembling a computer
unit.

1. How do you choose the best tool for the job?

2. Which component of the computer should be removed first?
3. What safety precautions should be taken?

To complete the assembly and disassembly of the computer system, a toolkit containing all of the
necessary tools is required. And you are well-versed in the proper disassembly and assembly
procedures. It is also critical to understand the safety precautions when participating in the activity.

❖ Preparing for the task to be undertaken includes proper tool selection

How do you choose the right tool for the job?

1. First, know and fully comprehend the scope of work to be completed. Plan the scope while
keeping the task sequence in mind.
 2. Choosing the best tool for each task necessitates tool training, field experience, and adhering
to the manufacturer's guidance and instructions for that specific tool.
3. When purchasing the tools, all associated tools and consumable parts recommended by the
manufacturer must be included. Furthermore, related consumable parts must be chosen and
used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

❖ Tool safety is essential.

When you've decided on a tool, use it for the purpose it was designed for. Although not
all tools come with detailed instructions, there are certain requirements to consider for your safety. If
there are set-up or use options, the operator's decision must always be based on what is the safest way
to use the tool.

❖ Environmental Safety and Health Program requires the following:

• All tools must be kept in good condition with regular maintenance.
• The right tool should be used for the job.
• Each tool must be examined before use and damaged or defective tools should NOT be
used.
• Tools must be operated according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• The right protective equipment for the tool and activity be used.

You will learn which tools should be available for different types of jobs as you gain experience.
Hardware tools are classified into four types:
1. Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) instruments;
2. Hand tools;
3. Cleaning tools; and
4. Diagnostic tools.

1. Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) Instruments

Friction on carpets, tile flooring, clothing, hair, fabric, and other surfaces easily generates static
electricity. The friction of moving air alone will charge suspended particles and cause static electrical
charges to accumulate on people and objects in the environment. Grounded antistatic work mats
combined with antistatic wrist straps are the most basic method for controlling electrostatic discharge.
ESD Tool Examples:
 Anti-static wrist strap – used to prevent ESD damage to
computer equipment.

Anti-static mat – used to stand on or place hardware on to

prevent static electricity from building up.

2. Hand Instruments

A hand tool is a device that is used to perform work on a material or a physical system with only
one's hands. Hand tools can be used manually by applying force or electrically by applying current.
Hand Tool Examples:

Flat head screwdriver – used to loosen or tighten slotted screws.

Philips head screwdriver – used to loosen or tighten cross- head

screws.

Torx screwdriver - used to loosen or tighten screws that have a star-

like depression on the top, a feature that is mainly found on laptop.

Hex driver – sometimes called a nut driver, is used to tighten nuts in

the same way that a screwdriver tightens screws.

Wire cutter – used to strip and cut wires.

 Tweezers – used to manipulate small parts.

Part retriever – used to retrieve parts from location that are to small
for your hand to fit.

Flashlight – used to light up areas that you cannot see well.

k_to_12_pc_hardware_servicing_learning_module /Exploratory Course 7/8

3. Cleaning Tools

When maintaining or repairing computers, having the proper cleaning tools is critical.
Using these tools ensures that no computer components are damaged during the cleaning process.
Examples:

Lint-free cloth – used to clean different computer

components without scratching or leaving debris.

Compressed air – used to blow away dust and debris from different
computer parts without touching the components.

Cable ties – used to bundle cables neatly inside and outside

of a computer.

Parts organizer – used to hold screw, jumpers, fasteners and other

small parts and prevents them from getting mixed together.

k_to_12_pc_hardware_servicing_learning_module /Exploratory Course 7/8

 4. Diagnostic Tools

Computers are easier to use and more dependable with each new generation of hardware
and operating system update, but that doesn't mean they're problem-free. Here's the most
popular tools for diagnosing your computer problems:

Multimeter – used to test the integrity of circuits and the

quality of electricity in computer components.

Loopback Adapter – used to test the functionality of

computer ports.

k_to_12_pc_hardware_servicing_learning_module /Exploratory Course 7/8

ASSEMBLING AND DISASSEMBLING A COMPUTER UNIT

PC assembly and disassembly appear

to be difficult tasks; however, once you get
used to it, you will realize that it is easier said
than done. After reading this article, you
should be able to assemble and disassemble a
computer on your own. As a result, you believe
that assembling and disassembling a PC is
within your comfort zone. You must be careful
to place the correct parts in the correct
locations and ensure that all screws are
properly tightened.

❖ What is assembling a PC?

Assembling a PC means connecting different components of a computer so that users can use
the PC or computer.
❖ Is it safe to take apart a computer?
We are generally afraid of assembling and disassembling a computer system on our own, and I
am no exception before. This happened to me with my first gaming computer.
 I needed to disassemble my gaming PC in order to clean my system. But I was unable to do so.
However, I am now capable of assembling and disassembling a computer system on my own. I
can easily unplug a computer and then rebuild a computer system. As a result of my experiences, I'd
like to share the steps for assembling and disassembling a computer with you.

NOTE: It is safe to dismantle or disassemble a computer if you follow the strict procedure for
dismantling or disassembling a computer.

HOW TO ASSEMBLE AND DISASSEMBLE A COMPUTER

5. Steps in Assembling and Disassembling a Computer.

You will learn how to connect various computer components here. I divided the entire
assembly process into two parts so you could easily understand the PC assembly process step by step.

To begin with, in the first part, you will learn the CPU assembly process with various CPU
components.
In the second section, you will learn how to assemble a computer using standard computer system
devices.

You can read to know more about different parts of the CPU and the basic parts of the computer
system.

❖ The most important things to practice to assemble and disassemble a computer.

Ordinarily, people do not practice assembling and disassembling a computer system.

Typically, the human body generates static electricity, which can harm electronic components in your
computer. As a result, you must neutralize your body's static electricity.

❖ How to neutralize static electricity

The easiest way is you can hold any metal body for a few
seconds. Thus, you can neutralize your body’s static electricity. This quick tip
you need to practice to assemble and disassemble a computer system. But you
should always wear a grounding strap to handle electronic devices. It is the
best practice you should follow before assembling a computer.
 ➢ Part1: How to assemble a CPU step by step

This part is all about CPU assembling.

Specifically, you have to be very careful
with this process.

Following are the steps to assemble CPU:

1. Take Inventory
2. Make space and time
3. Prepare your CPU case
4. Install motherboard
5. Install the processor
6. Install the processor heat sink
7. Install the RAM
8. Install SMPS
9. Install the HDD
10. Install CD/DVD drive
11. Connect Expansion cards
12. Install SYS/Rear cooling fan
13. Bus cable connection
14. Power Cable connection

k_to_12_pc_hardware_servicing_learning_module /Exploratory Course 7/8

You must take great care, especially when installing the motherboard. First, remove the motherboard of
its packaging and put it on top of the antistatic bag it came in. Remember, you always want to safeguard
your components from potentially hazardous static electricity.

a. You need to secure the motherboard onto the PC case/chassis and inspect carefully for any
visible defects.
b. Next, review the motherboard handbook, to make sure you are familiar with the motherboard
layout and understand which socket is which. Manuals are immensely helpful, usually easy to
read, and include illustrations instructions.
c. Check the layout of the sockets on the motherboard. And confirm that the ports on your
motherboard’s back panel match the holes on the case’s Input/output (I/O) shield installed in
your case. If it is necessary, then remove the old I/O shield by tapping it firmly a few times with
the thicker end of a screwdriver. And then replace it with the shield that came with the new
motherboard.
d. You need carefully position the motherboard on top of the brass standoffs. After that line up all
the holes, use the screws that accompanied the case to fasten down the motherboard.
e. Don’t forget to place the CMOS in the proper position.

5. INSTALL THE PROCESSOR

(CPU):

a. Use the unlocking mechanism to

open the CPU socket which is, usually
a lever.

b. Carefully line up the pins and place

the chip in its socket; it will fit only when oriented correctly. An arrow or a missing pin on one corner
of the chip will show you how to line things up.

c. Align with the triangular symbol with the processor and socket key marks, as shown in the Figure.

d. Lower the lever to lock the CPU into place.

6. INSTALL THE CPU HEAT SINK:

You should follow the manufacturer instructions

to install the heat sink and the cooling fan. If you
bought an OEM CPU and a separate heat sink,
then you need to spread a thin layer of the thermal
grease over the chip. The thermal grease ensures
proper transfer of heat.

There are some heat sinks that come with this grease already applied. In that case, you don’t need to
use thermal grease over the chip.

a. Attach the clip that holds the heat sink in place, keeping in mind that it may require a fair amount
of force. Again, follow the instructions that came with the heat sink. They will show you how to fit
it correctly. If you are in doubt, you can visit the manufacturer’s website for more information.
b. Plug the CPU fan’s power connector into the proper connector on the motherboard

7. Install RAM Module

a. Unlock the two tabs from both ends

of the RAM slot.
b. To install the RAM, insert them into
the proper sockets and push down
firmly but evenly until the clips on
both sides of the socket pop into
place. If your motherboard supports
dual-channel memory, consult the
user manual to determine which
pairs of RAM sockets you should use.

8. Install the Power Supply Unit

(SMPS):
a. Place the SMPS inside the CPU
cabinet in the proper position. If you
are not able to find the correct
location, then check the manual.
 b. Final steps, to install SMPS, you need to tighten the screw to secure the SMPS to the case,

9. To install HDD:

a. You can see a 3.5 inch bay inside the CPU cabinet. If
you are unable to find it, then check the manual of the
case to identify the bay location.
b. Place the HDD inside the bay properly and tighten the
screw.

10. To install Optical Drive

You can see a 5.25 inch bay inside the CPU cabinet. If you are
unable to find it, check the manual of the case to identify the
bay location.

Place the CD/DVD inside the CPU cabinet to align with the
5.25-inch bay. And, finally, you need to tighten all the screws
to hold firmly.

11. To install Expansion Cards

Expansion cards help to increase the functionality of your computer. You can place Expansion cards
on the motherboard.

PCI compatible expansion cards can place on the PCI slots of the motherboard.

PCI-e compatible expansion cards can place on the PCI-e slots of the motherboard.

Video cards or graphics cards can place on the AGP slot of the motherboard.

You must know about various parts of a motherboard such that, you can effortlessly identify the
different connectors.
12. Install system / rear fan

Find the location where you can place the

Sys/Rear cooling Fan. Generally, SYS/Rear
cooling can place below the SMPS.

13. Bus Cable connection

If your motherboard has a SATA Bus connector, then you need to use SATA cables. AND if
your motherboard has a PATA Bus connector, then you can use PATA cable or IDE cable.

In general, two bus cables need to connect inside the CPU. First, Bus cable connects the HDD
and motherboard. And the second Bus cable connects the CD/DVD drive and motherboard.

14. Power cable connectors

This one is the final step of assembling a

CPU. You need to provide power to the
different parts of the CPU. Plug the ATX
power connector from your power supply
into the matching port on your motherboard.

1. You can find a 20/24 pins ATX

power connector port on the
motherboard. The 20/24 pins ATX
power connector cable coming from
SMPS needs to connect here.
 Check the lock system in both ends of the connector and the port, and place it properly. As
always, refer to your motherboard’s manual for the exact locations. There is another 4-pins
ATX power connector port, you can find on the motherboard. You can locate this port near
the processor socket. You must connect the 4-pins power connector in this port properly

15. Front Panel Connector Connection

Use your motherboard user manual and find the description of front-panel connectors.

First, Attach each of the tiny leads from the power and reset switches. After that, the hard-disk
activity lights, the PC speaker, and any front-panel USB to the corresponding pin on your
motherboard.

❖ Part 2: How to assemble PC

This one is the final part of assembling a computer system.

1. Check your keyboard connector port. If it is a USB connector, then connect your keyboard into
the proper USB port. And if it is a PS/2 connector, then connect to the correct, PS/2 port.
2. Same steps you need to follow to connect your mouse into the proper port.
 3. You require a VGA (Video Graphic Array) cable to connect the monitor and CPU. Find the 15
pins male connector on the backside of the CPU cabinet and your monitor. Use the VGA cable
to connect the CPU cabinet and the monitor. Finally, you need to tighten the lock screws.
4. If you have a speaker, you can connect the speaker on the backside of your CPU cabinet. To
get sound from the speaker, you need to plug the speaker’s cable with the Aux port.
5. And if you have a printer, you can connect the printer on the backside of your CPU cabinet.
These days, you can connect your speaker BUS cable on the USB port.

Finally, connects power to the various parts of your computer. You have to connect the power
cable with the CPU case, monitor, speaker, and printer

6. Check your PC Set-Up:

It's time to boot up your system and double-check your PC configuration. Check that the
keyboard, mouse, and monitor are all plugged into their respective ports on the PC's back. Reconnect
the power cord and turn on the machine. To boot a computer, you must have both hardware and
software. You've learned how to put assemble a computer up to this point. If you want to use that
computer, you must first install an operating system.

What is disassembling a PC?

Steps for disassembling a PC

Generally, people want to know

both assemble and disassemble steps
of a computer. Therefore I am
sharing my ideas to help you to
assemble and disassemble a
computer system.

1. Unplugged the AC power supply to the PC from the wall socket

2. Remove the Cover or chassis or case.
3. Unplugged bus cables and ATX power cables
4. Remove Adapter Cards if any
5. Now Remove the processor and the heatsink and fan
6. Remove hard disk and CD/ DVD drives
7. Next, remove the Memory Modules
8. Remove the Power Supply (SMPS)
9. Finally, Remove the Motherboard

https://www.crucial.com/articles/pc-builders/disassemble-and-rebuild-a-desktop-computer
 1. Unplugged the AC power supply to the PC from the wall
socket

This one is the first step to begin a PC disassemble process.

Always remember first disconnect all the power supply connected to your
computer system before starting to remove parts.

2. Remove the case covering

Loose the screws and remove the case covering to access the
inside parts of the CPU cabinet case.

3. Unplugged bus cables and ATX power cables and remove

the Power Supply Unit
Disconnect all the cables one by one inside the CPU case. First,
disconnect ATX power cables from the motherboard. After that,
disconnect power supply cables, bus cables from the HDD/SSD, and
motherboard.

4. Remove adapter cards if any

If any adapter is connected then, disconnect the card from the

motherboard.

5. Remove the processor and the heatsink and fan

Now its time to remove the heatsink from the motherboard. Generally,
the CPU fan and the heatsink attach together. If it is separated in that
case, you need to remove the fan first after that, you can remove the
CPU heatsink. In the final step, unlock the processor socket and
remove the processor from the motherboard carefully

6. Remove hard disk and CD/ DVD drives

Its time to remove the other parts of the computer

system. Remove the Hard disk drive or SSD from the
motherbo ard. You can also remove the CD/DVD drive
from the CPU case. Sometimes, to remove CD/DVD drive
from the CPU case, you need to remove the front cover of
the CPU cabinet case first. that, you can remove the ROM drives.
 7. Remove memory modules

this process, you do remove the RAM from the

motherboard. First, unlock the RAM from both ends and
pull the RAM carefully.

8. Remove the motherboard

The final step of the PC disassemble process is

this one. Carefully remove the motherboard from the
CPU cabinet case.

Image Sources:
https://qph.fs.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-ae24c7b3b4a83609a065315121ca757d.webp
https://www.lifewire.com/how-to-open-a-desktop-computer-case-2624589
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UYe5qyqDjxM
https://www.dummies.com/computers/pcs/how-to-install-a-video-card-in-your-computer/
https://www.shutterstock.com/video/clip-30333520-removing-replacing-cpu-cooler-on-modern-pc
https://www.online-tech-tips.com/computer-tips/how-to-extract-files-from-a-dead-hard-drive/
https://www.crucial.com/articles/about-memory/how-to-upgrade-desktop-memory
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UM-9wAUQCdU

Conclusion:

Assembling and disassembling a computer system is not a difficult task, but it does necessitate
careful observation and knowledge of the system's various components. When installing these
components, you must exercise extreme caution and ensure that they are not forcefully but firmly
installed. In the event of a hardware failure or the installation of new add-on cards, you must be able to
assemble and disassemble a computer system. After you've assembled your computer system, the next
step is to install the operating system so you can begin using it.

PERFORMANCE:

ACTIVITY 3. Make a video showing the steps on how to Assemble and Disassemble a
Computer unit. If you do not have any computer unit, you can use cut pictures or your
can draw computer parts and use it in your video. Edit your raw video and add some effects to
enhance it.

Rubrics:
Criteria Points
Being able to discuss the complete steps Assembling a Computer 10
Unit
 Being able to discuss the complete steps Disassemble a Computer 10
Unit
Video Content 10
Delivery / Presentation 10
Creativity 10
TOTAL 50

ACTIVITY 4. Direction: Read carefully the questions and write your answer in your CSS
Activity Notebook

_______1 . Which of the following does NOT belong to the group?

A. Remove the motherboard C. Remove the cables
B. Remove the PSU D. Remove the monito
_______2. Which of the following step is next to removing memory modules?
A. Remove the motherboard C. Remove the PSU
B. Remove the cards D. Remove the Heat sink and Fan
_______3. What is the first step in assembling the system unit?
A. Install Motherboard C. Install RAM modules
B. Connect expansion cards D. Take Inventory
_______4. What is the meaning of CPU?
A. Central Park Unit C. Central Processing Unit
B. Chief Processing Unit D. Chief Park Unit
_______5. What is the first step in disassembling the computer system?
A. Open the cover. C. Remove the adapter cards.
B. Detach the power cable. D. Unplug the power supply.
_______6. What do you call the wires that connect to the front panel?
A. SATA cable C. PATA cables
B. HDD cables D. Front panel connectors
_______7. Which of the following is the 2nd step in disassembling the system unit?
a. Unplug the AC power c. Remove the case
b. Remove the cables d. Remove the Motherboard
_______8. The following are the main purpose of attaching heat sink to the CPU, EXCEPT
a. It absorbs heat given off by the CPU c. It makes cool the CPU
b. It serves a design d. It prevents overheating of CPU
_______9. What tools or equipment you are going to use to prevent Electrostatic discharge?
a. Lint free cloth c. pressure air
b. Mat d. anti-static wrist strap
_______10. A tool used to loosen or tighten cross- head screws.
a. Torx b. hex c. Philips screw driver d. Flat head screw driver

References:

https://www.instructables.com/How-To-Assemble-A-Basic-Desktop-PC/

https://www.your10.co.in/components-of-a-computer/

https://www.your10.co.in/assemble-and-disassemble-a-computer/
k_to_12_pc_hardware_servicing_learning_module /Exploratory Course 7/8
Writer: JOSE GOCELA TAPOROC, JR., SST-III
School: Digos City National High School
Division: Digos City