CAT 2 November Answer Booklet

To be filled by Student before completing the CAT

STUDENT ID NUMBER…104-193……………………..
DEGREE/DIPLOMA/CERTIFICATE FOR WHICH THE CANDIDATE IS REGISTERED
e.g. BBA,BPH,BIRDS,LLB,BIT:…BIT……………………………….
YEAR OF STUDY……YEAR TWO (2)……………………………………………
MODULE CODE…… BIT223 ……………………………………………..
MODULE NAME… COMPUTER HARDWARE AND MAINTENANCE
……………………………………………….
SEMESTER……SEMESTER TWO(2)…………………………………………………...
VERY IMPORTANT
Only your student ID No. and not your Name should be typed on the answer booklet.
Ensure that you have typed your Student ID No, Module code and Module name correctly since
any mistake may result into misallocation of results /marks /grades.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE ONLINE EXAMINATION
Save the CAT Answer Booklet with the following name format:
[module code] [your SID number] Answer Booklet.
Example: LLB225 - 012345 Answer Booklet.
Write the answer to each question on a new page of the document.
Write the question number at the start of each question.
Remember to save the document regularly while you are working on it.
When you have finished typing your answers into the CAT Answer Booklet, check your work
and then save.
Submit your CAT Answer booklet by uploading it to Cavendish University Learning Platform -
Claned.
 CUU-CAT 2 November Answer booklet

Computer repair and maintenance

a)Explain any five possible causes of the computer becoming abnormally slow, (5 marks)
A computer can become abnormally slow due to various reasons. Here are possible causes:
Running too many background programs:
When you have too many programs running in the background, they can consume a lot of your
computer’s resources, such as memory, CPU, and disk space. This can slow down your computer
and affect its performance. To fix this issue, you can try closing any programs that you are not
using, or disable any unnecessary startup programs that run automatically when you turn on your
computer. You can also use Task Manager to check which programs are using the most resources
and end them if needed.
Hardware conflicts and outdated drivers:
Sometimes, your computer’s hardware components may not work well together, or they may
have outdated or incompatible drivers. This can cause errors, crashes, and slowdowns on your
computer. To fix this issue, you can try updating your drivers to the latest versions, or
uninstalling and reinstalling any problematic devices. You can also use Device Manager to check
for any hardware conflicts and resolve them.
Virus or malware infection:
If your computer is infected by a virus or malware, it can compromise your security and privacy,
as well as slow down your computer. Some malicious programs can run in the background, steal
your data, or display unwanted ads or pop-ups. To fix this issue, you can use an antivirus or anti-
malware software to scan your computer and remove any threats. You can also avoid clicking on
suspicious links or attachments, or downloading files from untrusted sources .
No free hard drive space:
If your hard drive is full or nearly full, it can affect your computer’s speed and performance.
When your hard drive is full, your computer has less space to store temporary files, cache data,
or swap memory. This can slow down your computer and cause errors or crashes. To fix this
issue, you can try freeing up some hard drive space by deleting any unnecessary files, such as
temporary files, duplicate files, or old downloads. You can also use Disk Cleanup or Storage
Sense to remove any unwanted files automatically.
Corrupt or fragmented hard drive:
If your hard drive is corrupt or fragmented, it can also slow down your computer. A corrupt hard
drive means that some of the data on your hard drive is damaged or unreadable, which can cause
errors or crashes. A fragmented hard drive means that the data on your hard drive is scattered
across different locations, which can make it harder for your computer to access or write data. To
fix this issue, you can try repairing or formatting your hard drive, or using a tool like CHKDSK

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or SFC to scan and fix any errors. You can also use Disk Defragmenter or Optimize Drives to
defragment your hard drive and improve its performance.

Other possible causes include:

Insufficient RAM (Random Access Memory): If your computer doesn't have enough RAM to
handle the tasks you're running, it will start using the hard drive as virtual memory, leading to a
significant slowdown.
High CPU Usage: Intensive processes or applications can consume a large portion of your CPU
resources, causing the system to slow down. Check the Task Manager (Windows) or Activity
Monitor (Mac) to identify resource-hungry applications.
Insufficient Storage Space: When your hard drive is almost full, it can slow down the
computer's overall performance. Ensure you have enough free space on your hard drive.
Malware or Viruses: Malicious software can significantly impact your computer's performance.
Regularly scan your system for malware and viruses using reputable antivirus software.
Background Processes and Startup Programs: Too many unnecessary background processes
and programs set to run at startup can slow down your computer. Disable or remove those that
are not essential.
Outdated Hardware: Older hardware may struggle to keep up with the demands of modern
software and applications. Upgrading components like the CPU, RAM, or storage can improve
performance.
Outdated Software or Operating System: Ensure your operating system and software are up-
to-date. Updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes.
Fragmented Hard Drive: Over time, files on your hard drive can become fragmented, leading
to slower read and write speeds. Regularly defragment your hard drive or use an SSD that doesn't
suffer from fragmentation issues.
Driver Issues: Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause performance problems. Make sure
your graphics, network, and other essential drivers are up-to-date.
Overheating: If your computer is overheating, it may throttle its performance to prevent
damage. Ensure proper ventilation, clean dust from fans, and consider using a cooling pad.
Too Many Browser Extensions: Browser extensions can consume a significant amount of
system resources. Disable or remove unnecessary extensions to speed up web browsing.
Network Issues: Slow internet connectivity or network problems can affect online tasks. Check
your network connection and consider contacting your internet service provider if necessary.

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To address a slow computer, it's often helpful to perform a combination of these solutions,
depending on the specific circumstances. Regular maintenance and monitoring can help prevent
and resolve performance issues.

b) Develop a computer repair kit that contains the right software, hardware tools and
spare parts needed to do any computer repairs. (5 marks)
Creating a comprehensive computer repair kit involves assembling the right combination of
software, hardware tools, and spare parts to address a variety of common computer issues.
To develop a computer repair kit that contains the right software, hardware tools and spare parts
needed to do any computer repairs, you will need to consider the following factors:

The type and model of the computer you are repairing. Different computers may have different
specifications, components, and compatibility issues. You will need to know the exact details of
the computer you are working on, such as the operating system, processor, memory, hard drive,
motherboard, graphics card, etc. You will also need to know the manufacturer and model number
of the computer, as well as the serial number and warranty status. This will help you find the
correct drivers, manuals, and replacement parts for the computer.
The common problems and issues that may affect the computer. Some of the common problems
that may require computer repairs are: hardware failures, software errors, virus or malware
infections, slow performance, overheating, data loss, network issues, etc. You will need to
diagnose the problem and determine the cause and solution. You will also need to backup any
important data before attempting any repairs.
The software tools that can help you with the computer repairs. Some of the software tools that
can help you with the computer repairs are: antivirus or anti-malware programs, disk cleanup and
defragmentation tools, system restore and recovery tools, diagnostic and testing tools, driver
update and installation tools, data backup and recovery tools, etc. You will need to have these
tools installed on a USB flash drive or a CD/DVD, so that you can boot the computer from them
and run the tools without affecting the system files.
The hardware tools that can help you with the computer repairs. Some of the hardware tools that
can help you with the computer repairs are: screwdrivers, pliers, tweezers, spudgers, suction
cups, anti-static wrist straps, anti-static mats, anti-static brushes, dust blowers, magnifying
glasses, flashlights, etc. You will need to have these tools in a portable and durable case, so that
you can easily carry them and use them safely. You will also need to have some spare parts, such
as screws, cables, connectors, adapters, etc., in case you need to replace any damaged or missing
components.

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A computer repair kit that contains the right software, hardware tools and spare parts needed to
do any computer repairs may look something like this:

A USB flash drive or a CD/DVD with the following software tools:

An antivirus or anti-malware program, such as Malwarebytes, Avast, or Kaspersky .
A disk cleanup and defragmentation tool, such as CCleaner, Disk Cleanup, or Defragged .
A system restores and recovery tool, such as Windows System Restore, Mac Time Machine, or
Linux Time shift .
A diagnostic and testing tool, such as CPU-Z, GPU-Z, or CrystalDiskInfo .
A driver updates and installation tool, such as Driver Booster, Driver Easy, or Snappy Driver
Installer .
A data backup and recovery tool, such as Ease US Todo Backup, Acronis True Image, or Recuva
.
A case with the following hardware tools and spare parts:
A set of screwdrivers, such as the iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit, which includes 64 bits for various
types of screws and an aluminum driver handle1.
A pair of pliers, such as the iFixit Precision Pliers Set, which includes needle-nose, bent-nose,
and diagonal cutters.
A pair of tweezers, such as the iFixit Precision Tweezers Set, which includes blunt, pointed, and
angled versions.
A set of spudgers, such as the iFixit Prying and Opening Tool Assortment, which includes
plastic, metal, and nylon spudgers for prying and opening enclosures.
A suction cup, such as the iFixit Suction Handle, which can help with lifting screens and glass
panels.
An anti-static wrist strap, such as the iFixit Anti-Static Wrist Strap, which can help protect your
electronics from accidental electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage.
An anti-static mat, such as the iFixit Anti-Static Project Tray, which can help prevent ESD
damage and organize your parts and tools.
An anti-static brush, such as the iFixit Anti-Static Brush, which can help clean delicate circuits
and hard-to-reach places.
A dust blower, such as the iFixit Dust Blower, which can help remove dust, dirt, and grime from
your devices.

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A magnifying glass, such as the iFixit Magnifying Glass, which can help you see small details
and components.
A flashlight, such as the iFixit Flashlight, which can help you see in dark or dim areas.
Some spare screws, cables, connectors, adapters, etc., depending on the type and model of the
computer you are repairing.
Software:
Bootable USB Drive:
Loaded with a versatile operating system like Hiren's Boot CD or a Linux distribution. This
allows you to boot into a different environment to troubleshoot and repair.
Diagnostic Software:
Tools like MemTest86 for RAM testing, CrystalDiskInfo for checking hard drive health, and
Prime95 for CPU stress testing.
Antivirus and Antimalware Tools:
Have reputable antivirus and antimalware programs for scanning and removing viruses,
malware, and spyware.
Data Recovery Software:
Tools like Recuva or TestDisk for recovering lost or deleted data.
System Utilities:
Programs like CCleaner for cleaning up temporary files and optimizing system performance.
Backup and Imaging Software:
Acronis True Image or Macrium Reflect for creating and restoring system backups.
Remote Desktop Software:
TeamViewer or Any Desk for remote assistance and troubleshooting.

Hardware Tools:
Screwdriver Set:
Phillips and flathead screwdrivers for opening and securing computer components.
Needle-nose Pliers:
Useful for handling small parts and cables.
Flashlight:

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A small, powerful flashlight for better visibility inside computer cases.

Anti-Static Wrist Strap:
Protects sensitive components from electrostatic discharge during repairs.
Cable Ties and Velcro Straps:
For organizing cables and ensuring a tidy workspace.
Multimeter:
Essential for checking power supply voltages and diagnosing electrical issues.
Power Supply Tester:
Quickly checks the functionality of power supplies.
USB Hub:
Useful for connecting multiple USB devices simultaneously.
Ethernet Cable Tester:
Verifies the integrity of network cables.
Label Maker:
Helps label cables and components for easy identification.

Spare Parts:
Power Supply Unit (PSU):
A spare PSU for testing and replacing if needed.
RAM Modules:
Different types and capacities to test and replace faulty RAM.
Hard Drives/SSDs
Spare drives for testing and data transfer.
CMOS Batteries:
Commonly needed for replacing old or dead CMOS batteries.
Thermal Paste:
Essential for reapplying to CPUs during heatsink installation.
Various Cables:

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SATA, power, and data cables for different types of drives.

Fans:
Replacement fans for cooling systems.
Motherboard Standoffs and Screws:
Handy for motherboard installations and replacements.
Having a well-organized and comprehensive computer repair kit ensures that you are prepared to
handle a wide range of issues efficiently. Regularly updating software and replacing expired or
used components will help maintain the kit's effectiveness over time.

c) A computer is displaying a “No Boot Device Found" error. Explain the potential causes
and the steps you would take to resolve this issue. (5 marks)
The "No Boot Device Found" error is a common issue that can be caused by various factors.
A computer displaying a “No Boot Device Found” error means that the computer cannot find or
access the hard drive or other device that contains the operating system. This can prevent the
computer from booting up and loading Windows or other operating systems. There are several
potential causes for this error, such as:

An incorrect boot order in the BIOS or UEFI settings. The boot order determines which devices
the computer tries to load the operating system from, such as the hard drive, the optical drive, the
USB drive, etc. If the boot order is not set correctly, the computer may try to boot from an empty
or unbootable device, resulting in the error. To fix this, you need to enter the BIOS or UEFI
settings menu and change the boot order to make sure that the hard drive or the device that
contains the operating system is in the first position.
A loose or damaged cable or connector. The hard drive or other device that contains the
operating system needs to be connected to the motherboard and the power supply with cables
and connectors. If these cables or connectors are loose, disconnected, or damaged, the computer
may not be able to detect or access the device, resulting in the error. To fix this, you need to open
the computer case and check the cables and connectors for any signs of damage or disconnection.
You may need to replace or reconnect them if necessary.
A corrupt or damaged hard drive or device. The hard drive or other device that contains the
operating system may have physical or logical damage, such as bad sectors, file system errors, or
virus infections. This can make the device unreadable or unbootable, resulting in the error. To fix
this, you need to use a different computer or device to scan and repair the hard drive or device,
using tools such as CHKDSK, SFC, or antivirus programs. You may also need to format or
replace the hard drive or device if the damage is severe.
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A missing or corrupt boot loader or system files. The boot loader is a program that loads the
operating system from the hard drive or other device. The system files are the essential files that
make up the operating system. If the boot loader or the system files are missing or corrupt, the
computer may not be able to load the operating system, resulting in the error. To fix this, you
need to use a Windows installation USB stick or DVD to repair or reinstall the boot loader or the
system files, using tools such as Startup Repair, System Restore, or Recovery Console

Potential Causes:
Disconnected or Faulty Cables:
Cause: Loose or damaged cables connecting the hard drive or SSD to the motherboard.
Resolution: Ensure cables are securely connected and replace damaged ones.
Failed Hard Drive or SSD:
Cause: The primary storage device may be faulty.
Resolution: Test the hard drive or SSD using diagnostic tools. If it's defective, replace it.
Incorrect Boot Order:
Cause: The BIOS or UEFI is set to boot from a non-bootable device.
Resolution: Access the BIOS/UEFI settings and set the correct drive as the primary boot device.
Corrupted Master Boot Record (MBR) or Boot Sector:
Cause: Damage to the MBR or boot sector.
Resolution: Use the Windows installation media to access Command Prompt and run bootrec
/fixmbr and bootrec /fix boot commands.
Corrupted Operating System:
Cause: Corruption in the operating system files.
Resolution: Attempt to repair the Windows installation using the Windows installation media
and choose the "Repair your computer" option.
Incorrect BIOS/UEFI Settings:
Cause: Incorrect BIOS/UEFI settings, such as RAID mode when it should be AHCI.
Resolution: Verify and adjust BIOS/UEFI settings, especially those related to disk controllers.
Faulty Motherboard or SATA Port:
Cause: Issues with the motherboard or SATA ports.
Resolution: Test with a different SATA port or try a spare motherboard if available.

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Corrupted Windows Boot Configuration Data (BCD):

Cause: Corruption in the BCD file.
Resolution: Use the Windows installation media to access Command Prompt and run bootrec
/rebuildbcd command.
Secure Boot Issues:
Cause: Secure Boot conflicts or misconfigurations.
Resolution: Disable Secure Boot in the BIOS/UEFI settings and see if the system boots.
Malware or Virus Infection:
Cause: Malware or viruses can corrupt system files.
Resolution: Run a thorough antivirus scan using a bootable antivirus tool or connect the hard
drive to another system for scanning.

Steps to Resolve:
Check Cables:
Ensure all cables are securely connected and not damaged.
Test Storage Device:
Use diagnostic tools to check the health of the hard drive or SSD.
Verify Boot Order:
Access BIOS/UEFI settings and set the correct boot order.
Repair MBR and Boot Sector:
Use the Windows installation media to run bootrec /fixmbr and bootrec /fix boot commands.
Repair Windows Installation:
Use the Windows installation media to repair the operating system.
Check BIOS/UEFI Settings:
Verify and adjust BIOS/UEFI settings, especially those related to disk controllers.
Test with Different SATA Port or Motherboard:
If available, try a different SATA port or motherboard.

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Rebuild BCD:
Use the Windows installation media to run bootrec /rebuildbcd command.
Disable Secure Boot:
Disable Secure Boot in the BIOS/UEFI settings.
Run Antivirus Scan:
Use a bootable antivirus tool to scan for malware or connect the drive to another system for
scanning.
Remember to back up important data before attempting any repair procedures to avoid potential
data loss. If you are unsure about any step, seek professional assistance.

d) Describe the differences between a solid-state drive (SSD) and a hard disk drive
(HDD) and how these differences impact computer performance. (5 marks)
A solid-state drive (SSD) and a hard disk drive (HDD) are two types of storage devices that can
store and retrieve data on a computer. However, they have different technologies, features, and
performance characteristics that can impact the computer’s speed, efficiency, and reliability.
Here are some of the main differences between SSDs and HDDs and how they affect the
computer performance:

SSDs use flash memory chips to store data, while HDDs use spinning metal disks with magnetic
coating. This means that SSDs have no moving parts, while HDDs have mechanical components
that can wear out or fail over time. SSDs are therefore more durable and less prone to physical
damage than HDDs.
SSDs can access and transfer data much faster than HDDs, because they do not have to wait for
the disk to spin or the read/write head to move. SSDs can also support more input/output
operations per second (IOPS) than HDDs, which means they can handle multiple tasks and
requests more efficiently. SSDs are therefore more suitable for applications that require high
performance, such as gaming, video editing, or multitasking.
SSDs are smaller and lighter than HDDs, which makes them more portable and flexible for use
in different devices, such as laptops, tablets, or smartphones. SSDs also consume less power than
HDDs, which means they can extend the battery life of the device and reduce the heat and noise
generated by the system. SSDs are therefore more energy-efficient and eco-friendly than HDDs.

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HDDs are cheaper and offer more storage capacity than SSDs, which makes them more cost-
effective and practical for storing large amounts of data, such as movies, music, or photos. HDDs
also provide easier data recovery in case of any damage, because the data can be retrieved from
the disk surface using specialized tools. SSDs, on the other hand, may have limited storage
capacity and lifespan, and may lose data permanently if the flash memory chips are corrupted or
erased
Here are other differences between SSDs and HDDs and how these variances influence
overall system performance:

1. Technology:
SSD: Uses NAND-based flash memory to store data.
HDD: Uses magnetic storage with spinning disks (platters) and read/write heads.
2. Speed:
SSD: Faster data access due to no moving parts; read and write speeds are significantly higher.
HDD: Slower data access due to mechanical parts; speed depends on the rotational speed
(measured in RPM) of the spinning platters.
3. Durability:
SSD: More durable since it has no moving parts; resistant to physical shocks and vibrations.
HDD: Susceptible to physical damage from drops or shocks due to moving components.
4. Noise:
SSD: Silent operation as it has no mechanical parts.
HDD: Audible noise from spinning disks and moving read/write heads.
5. Power Consumption:
SSD: Lower power consumption; more energy-efficient.
HDD: Higher power consumption, especially during spin-up and spin-down.
6. Heat Generation:
SSD: Generates less heat due to no moving parts.
HDD: Generates more heat as a result of the spinning disks and moving components.
7. Form Factor and Size:
SSD: Smaller and lighter; available in various form factors, including M.2 and SATA.
HDD: Larger and heavier; limited form factors.

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8. Cost:
SSD: Generally more expensive per gigabyte compared to HDDs.
HDD: More cost-effective for large storage capacities.
9. Capacity:
SSD: Limited in terms of maximum storage capacity, especially for consumer-grade drives.
HDD: Offers larger storage capacities, making them suitable for mass storage.
10. Fragmentation:
SSD: Not affected by fragmentation; data access is equally fast across the drive.
HDD: Prone to fragmentation, which can impact performance over time.
11. Lifespan and Wear Leveling:
SSD: Limited write cycles; however, wear leveling algorithms distribute write cycles evenly
across the drive, extending lifespan.
HDD: No such limitations based on write cycles.
12. Boot Time and Application Launch:
SSD: Faster boot times and quicker application launches due to faster read/write speeds.
HDD: Slower boot times and application launches, especially with larger and more data-
intensive applications.

Impact on Computer Performance:

1.Faster Boot Times and Application Launches:
SSDs significantly reduce the time it takes for a computer to boot up and for applications to
launch.
2.Improved System Responsiveness:
SSDs provide quicker response times, making the overall system feel more responsive during
multitasking and heavy workloads.
3.Reduced Loading Times:
Games and large files load faster on SSDs, improving the user experience, particularly in gaming
and media applications.
4.Energy Efficiency:

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SSDs consume less power, contributing to better energy efficiency and longer battery life in
laptops.
5.Reliability and Durability:
SSDs are less prone to physical damage, providing a more reliable storage solution, especially in
portable devices.
In summary, the choice between an SSD and an HDD depends on factors such as performance
requirements, budget, and storage needs. SSDs excel in speed, durability, and energy efficiency,
while HDDs offer larger storage capacities at a lower cost per gigabyte. Many modern systems
use a combination of SSDs for speed and HDDs for bulk storage in a configuration known as a
hybrid drive or use SSDs as the primary drive for operating systems and frequently used
applications with an additional HDD for mass storage.

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