computer systems maintenance for computer

computer systems maintenance for computer

1. Computer Systems Maintenance

2. Lecture 1 - Sections & Objectives 1.1 Personal Computer Systems Explain how personal computer systems work together 1.2 Select Computer Components Select appropriate computer components 1.3 Configurations for Specialized Computer Systems Explain how hardware is configured for task-specific computers Computer Systems Maintenance 2

3. What Is A Computer?

4. What Is A Computer? A computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions (software) stored in its own memory unit, that can accept data (input), manipulate data (process), and produce information (output) from the processing. Generally, the term is used to describe a collection of devices that function together as a system. Computer Systems Maintenance 4

5. Basic Personal Computer System A computer system consists of hardware and software components. Hardware is the physical equipment such as the case, storage drives, keyboards, monitors, cables, speakers, and printers. Software is the operating system and programs. The operating system instructs the computer how to operate. Programs or applications perform different functions. Computer Systems Maintenance 5

6. Computer Cases and Power Supplies Computer case Provides protection and support for internal components. Should be durable, easy to service, and have enough room for expansion. The size and layout of a case is called a form factor. NOTE : Select a case that matches the physical dimensions of the power supply and motherboard. Power supply Converts AC power from the wall socket into DC. Provides power to all computer components. Must be chosen based on current and future needs. Deliver different voltage levels to meet different internal component needs. Computer Systems Maintenance 6

7. System Case Overview Computer Systems Maintenance 7

8. Four Basic Units of Electricity Voltage (V) is a measure of the force required to push electrons through a circuit. Voltage is measured in volts (V) . A computer power supply usually produces several different voltages. Current (I) is a measure of the amount of electrons going through a circuit. Current is measured in amperes, or amps (A) . Computer power supplies deliver different amperages for each output voltage. Power (P) is voltage multiplied by current. The measurement is called watts (W) . Computer power supplies are rated in watts. Resistance (R) is the opposition to the flow of current in a circuit. Resistance is measured in ohms ( Ω ) . Lower resistance allows more current to flow through a circuit. Computer Systems Maintenance 8

9. Internal PC Components Motherboards Backbone of the computer Interconnects computer components CPU The brain of the computer Most processing is done by the CPU Cooling Systems Dissipates the heat generated by computer components. Memory (ROM and RAM) RAM: Stores data temporarily, aiding processing ROM: Stores data permanently; often storing firmware and low level programs. Computer Systems Maintenance 9

10. Internal PC Components (Cont.) Adapter Cards and Expansion Slots Adapter Cards extend computer functionality Adapter Cards connect to the motherboard through Expansion Slots Storage Devices Designed to permanently store user data, user applications and the Operating System Can be internal or external to the computer Video Ports Connects a video system to an external display device such as a monitor or projector Video systems are often designed as an adapter card. General Ports Provide connectivity between the motherboard and various external devices such as printers, external storage and video cameras. Computer Systems Maintenance 10

11. External Ports and Cables Video Ports and Related Cables A few different standards govern video traffic between the computer and external video devices. HDMI and displayPort are examples of video ports that require a specific cable to operate. Other Ports and Related Cables Motherboards have a number of other ports used for device connectivity; USB is a common example. Adapters and Converters Adapters and converters can be a solution if a motherboard does not have the proper port to connect to a device. Adapters do not usually process the signal; they simply redirect it to another pin. Converters are more likely to process and transform the signal, converting it to be accepted by an existing port. Computer Systems Maintenance 11

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13. Motherboard Components Computer Systems Maintenance 13

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19. Memory Modules Memory modules are memory chips that have been soldered on to a special circuit board for easy installation and removal. Dual Inline Package ( DIP ) is an individual memory chip. Single Inline Memory Module ( SIMM ) is a small circuit board that holds several memory chips. Dual Inline Memory Module ( DIMM ) is a circuit board that holds SDRAM, DDR SDRAM, and DDR2 SDRAM chips. RAM Bus Inline Memory Module ( RIMM ) is a circuit board that holds RDRAM chips. Small Outline DIMM ( SODIMM ) is a smaller, more condensed version of DIMM which provides random access data storage that is ideal for use in laptops, printers, and other devices where conserving space is desirable. The speed of memory has a direct impact on how much data a processor can process because faster memory improves the performance of the processor. As processor speed increases, memory speed must also increase. Computer Systems Maintenance 19

20. Adapter Cards Adapter cards increase the functionality of a computer by adding controllers for specific devices or by replacing malfunctioning ports. Examples of adapter cards: Sound adapter and video adapter USB, parallel, and serial ports Network Interface Card (NIC), wireless NIC, and modem adapter Types of expansion slots: Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) Advanced Graphics Port (AGP) PCI-Express Mini PCI (laptops)

21. Optical Drives, Flash Drives and Drive Interfaces An optical drive is a storage device that uses lasers to read data on the optical media. The three types are CD, DVD, and BD (Blu-ray). A flash drive is a removable storage device that connects to a USB port. A flash drive uses a type of memory that requires no power to maintain the data. Common drive interfaces are: Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE) Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics (EIDE) Parallel ATA (PATA) Serial ATA (SATA) and External SATA ( eSATA ) Small Computer System Interface (SCSI)

22. Internal Cables Power supply connectors- SATA, Molex, and Berg. Front panel cables connect the case buttons and lights to the motherboard. Data cables connect drives to the drive controller. Floppy disk drive (FDD) data cable PATA (IDE) data cable (40 conductor) PATA (EIDE) data cable (80 conductor) SATA data cable SCSI data cable

23. Video Ports and Cables A video port connects a monitor cable to a computer. Video ports and connector types : DVI, Displayport , RCA, DB-15, BNC, RJ-45, MiniHDMI , Din-6 Display cables transfer video signals from the computer to display devices. Display cable types : High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), DVI, Video Graphics Array (VGA), Component/RGB, Composite, S-Video, Coaxial, Ethernet,

24. Ports and Cables Serial ports transmit one bit of data at a time. A telephone cable (RJ11) is used to connect a modem to a telephone outlet. USB is a standard interface for connecting hot-swappable peripheral devices to a computer. Some devices can also be powered through the USB port. FireWire is a high-speed, hot-swappable interface that can support up to 63 devices. Some devices can also be powered through the FireWire port. A parallel cable is used to connect parallel devices, such as a printer or scanner, and can transmit 8 bits of data at one time.

25. Ports and Cables (Continued) A SCSI port can transmit data at rates in excess of 320 Mbps and can support up to 15 devices. SCSI devices must be terminated at the endpoints of the SCSI chain. A network port , also known as an RJ-45 port, connects a computer to a network. The maximum length of network cable is 328 feet (100 m). A PS/2 port connects a keyboard or a mouse to a computer. The PS/2 port is a 6-pin mini-DIN female connector. An audio port connects audio devices to the computer. A video port connects a monitor cable to a computer.

26. Test : Computer Care and maintenance Attempt the following questions a) write short notes about the following internal components of a personal computer Mother board (4 marks) Central processing unit (4 marks) Memory (4 marks) b) using a table outline the difference between video ports, adapters and converters (8 marks) 2) Explain the purpose of safe working conditions and procedures (10 marks)

27. 1.2 Select Computer Components

28. Select PC Components Select the Motherboard, CPU, Case and Memory CPU, memory, motherboard and case choices are inter-related. The motherboard should support all customer required applications and still fit properly in the case. The case should host the motherboard, the proper power supply and provide good airflow for the internal components. The CPU must be compatible with motherboard CPU slot and voltage; it should be compatible with the chosen memory speed for maximum performance. The memory must also be compatible with motherboard memory slots and voltage. The amount of memory will depend on the type of applications requested by the customer.

29. Select PC Components (Cont.) Select the Case and Fans Case and fans must be chosen to maximize internal airflow. The fans must fit the case and be within the power limits provided by the power supply. Select the Power Supply The power supply should be selected based on the maximum amount of power required by all the internal components. Remember that some components will draw more power while under heavy load. Select Adapter Cards Make sure the motherboard has compatible expansion slots to support the adapter cards. The motherboard must also have enough expansion slots to receive all the required adapter cards. Customer needs will define what adapter cards must be procured and installed.

30. Select PC Components (Cont.) Select Hard Drives Important hard drive factors to be considered are speed, storage space and communication interface type. The drive’s underlying technology (HDD vs SSD) directly impacts speed. Select a Media Reader The media reader must be compatible with customer media. Select Optical Drives Make sure the drive is compatible with customer media. Other factors to consider are speed, communication interface type and the ability to write to the media.

31. Select PC Components (Cont.) Select External Storage Important factors when selecting external storage are storage space, speed and communication interface. Make sure the computer has enough ports to accommodate the external devices and peripherals. Note: Some external devices do not require an external power supply but rely on a second USB port for power. Select I/O Devices The selection of I/O devices is application specific and will depend on customer requirements. Make sure the computer has enough communication ports and that they are compatible with the types required by the I/O devices.

32. Computer Systems Maintenance 32 1.3 Configurations for Specialized Computer Systems

33. Specialized Computer Systems Thick and Thin Clients Thin clients have little processing power and are designed to act as a terminal to a server (thick client). Thick clients have more powerful CPUs, more memory and their own storage. They serve as processing stations for thin clients. CAx Workstations Designed to support CAD and CAM applications. Plenty of RAM, fast disks, powerful CPU and special input devices are common resources. Audio and Video Editing Workstations Common editing workstation resources include much RAM, fast disks, powerful CPU and special adapter cards such as audio and video capture. Computer Systems Maintenance 33

34. Specialized Computer Systems (Cont.) Virtualization Workstations These workstations are designed to run virtual computers Virtual computers use and share the workstation’s physical resources such as CPU, memory and disks. The selection of physical resources will depend on the number and purpose of the virtual machines. Gaming PCs Due to high resource requirements of modern games, gaming PCs are very resource demanding. A few requirements of gaming PCs are: top end CPU, lots of fast RAM, fast disks, high performance input devices and audio systems. Home Theatre PCs These computers must be able to play various media formats and, in some cases, receive TV signals. Common HTPC requirements include powerful CPU, fast RAM, large disks, fast NIC and video card with TV input. Computer Systems Maintenance 34

35. Safe Lab Procedures and Tool Use Lecture 2

36. Lecture 2 Objectives Explain the purpose of safe working conditions and safe lab procedures Identify tools and software used with personal computer components and their purposes Demonstrate proper tool use Computer Systems Maintenance 36

37. Safe Lab Procedures The workplace should have safety guidelines to : Protect people from injury. Protect equipment from damage. Protect the environment from contamination. Stay current on issues related to safety and health in the workplace. Computer Systems Maintenance 37

38. Characteristics of a Safe Workplace Clean, organized, and properly lit workspace Proper procedures for handling equipment Proper disposal or recycling of components containing hazardous materials Safety guidelines Most companies require reporting any injuries, including description of safety procedures not followed. Damage to equipment may result in claims for damages from the customer. Types of safety guidelines: General, Electrical, Fire. Computer Systems Maintenance 38

39. Safe Lab Procedures Procedures to Protect People General Safety Make sure a first-aid kit is available. Unsecured cables create tripping hazards. Food and drinks should not be in the workspace. Remove jewelry. Electrical Safety Computer power supplies are dangerous when disassembled. Watch for printer areas that are hot or that use high voltage. Check the voltage output of AC adapters and chargers before connecting them to devices. Fire Safety Turn off the power and unplug equipment before performing service. Different types of fires require different types of fire extinguishers; make sure to use to correct one. Be alert for odors emitting from computers and electronic devices. Computer Systems Maintenance 39

40. Safe Lab Procedures Procedures to Protect Equipment and Data ESD can cause damage to computer equipment if not discharged properly. ESD can build up on you as you walk on a carpeted floor. EMI distorts the signals, degrading computer communication. EMI can be generated by large motors, power lines, electrical storms, or any other source of electromagnetic energy. Wireless networks are affected by RFI. RFI is caused by radio transmitters transmitting in the same frequency. Environmental temperature and humidity levels also affect computers Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) and Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Computer Systems Maintenance 40

41. Safe Lab Procedures Procedures to Protect Equipment and Data (Cont.) Power Fluctuation Types Power fluctuations may impact the operation of computer components. Blackouts, brownouts, noise, spike and power surge are types of power fluctuations that can cause data loss or hardware failure. Power Protection Devices Surge suppressors, UPSs, SPSs are devices designed to protect computer systems from power fluctuations. Laser printers should not be plugged to UPSs Computer Systems Maintenance 41

42. The types of AC power fluctuations can cause data loss or hardware failure : Blackout : Complete loss of AC power. A blown fuse, damaged transformer, or downed power line can cause a blackout. Brownout : Reduced voltage level of AC power that lasts for a period of time. Brownouts occur when the power line voltage drops below 80 percent of the normal voltage level. Overloading electrical circuits can cause a brownout. Noise : Interference from generators and lightning. Noise results in poor quality power, which can cause errors in a computer system. Spike : Sudden increase in voltage that lasts for a short period and exceeds 100 percent of the normal voltage on a line. Spikes can be caused by lightning strikes but can also occur when the electrical system comes back on after a blackout. Power surge : Dramatic increase in voltage above the normal flow of electrical current. A power surge lasts for a few nanoseconds, or one-billionth of a second . Computer Systems Maintenance 42

43. Safe Lab Procedures Procedures to Protect the Environment Safety Data Sheet Use an SDS to obtain information about a material, including procedures for proper disposal. The SDS contains information on the material’s composition, how it can affect personal health, fire hazards, and first-aid requirements. It also includes protective measures for the safe handling and storage of materials and spill, leak, and disposal procedures. Equipment Disposal Computer equipment contains hazardous materials and should be properly disposed. Follow regulations to protect the environment and avoid fines. Batteries, monitors, toner kits, cartridges, developers, chemical solvents and aerosol cans are examples of equipment that must be properly disposed. Computer Systems Maintenance 43

44. Lecture 3 Proper Use of Tools Computer Systems Maintenance 44

45. Proper Use of Tools Hardware Tools Hardware tools are grouped into: ESD (electrostatic discharge) Tools Antistatic wrist strap and antistatic mat Hand Tools Include screwdrivers, flashlights and pliers. Cable Tools Include wire cutters and strippers, crimpers and punch down tool. Cleaning Tools Include special cloths, chemicals and cable ties. Diagnostic Tools Include digital multimeters , loopback adapters, WiFi analyzer, external HDD enclosure Computer Systems Maintenance 45

46. Proper Use of Tools Software Tools Like hardware tools, software tools are task-specific. Used to diagnose problems, maintain hardware, and protect the data stored on a computer. Disk Management Tools Used for disk management, formatting, error checking, drive optimization, disk cleanup and more. Protection Software Tools Malicious software can damage or compromise operating systems, applications, and data. Software protection tools include antivirus, antispyware, firewalls and update manager software. Computer Systems Maintenance 46

47. Proper Use of Tools Organizational Tools It is important that a technician document all services and repairs for future reference. Personal Reference Tools Include troubleshooting guides, manufacturer manuals, quick reference guides, and repair journals. History of repairs and a notepad can be extremely useful as a technician performs troubleshooting and repairs. The Internet can be a great reference tool by providing access to specialized forums, search engines, manufacturer’s FAQs, and more. Miscellaneous Tools Additional secondary items can be added to the toolkit. Masking tape, a working computer and even pencil eraser can be very useful additions to a technician’s kit. Computer Systems Maintenance 47

48. Lecture 4: Computer Assembly

49. Lecture 4 Objectives Open the case Install the power supply Attach the components to the motherboard and install the motherboard Install internal drives and drives in external bays Install adapter cards Install and connect all internal cables Re-attach the side panels and connect external cables to the computer Boot the computer for the first time Configure BIOS 49 Computer Systems Maintenance

50. Lecture 4 Objectives Describe reasons for upgrading computer components Select and install replacement or upgraded motherboard, CPU, heat sink and fan, and RAM Upgrade and configure BIOS Select and install replacement or upgraded hard drives Select and install replacement or upgraded input and output devices 50 Computer Systems Maintenance

51. Assemble the Computer Open the Case and Connect the Power Supply Open the Case Prepare the workspace before opening the computer case. There are also different methods for opening cases. Consult the case’s documentation to learn how to open a particular computer case. Install the Power Supply Modern cases include a specific area for the power supply. Consult the case and power supply’s manuals for more information. Secure the power supply to the case using the proper screws. Make sure that all the screws are in place and tightened correctly. Use a cable tie to secure all the cables out of the way. 51 Computer Systems Maintenance

52. Open the Case Computer assembly is a large part of a technician's job. Prepare the workspace before opening the computer case. There are different methods for opening cases. Consult the user manual or manufacturer's website. 52 Computer Systems Maintenance

53. Install the Power Supply Power supply installation steps include the following: Insert the power supply into the case. Align the holes in the power supply with the holes in the case. Secure the power supply to the case using the proper screws. 53 Computer Systems Maintenance

54. Attach Components to the Motherboard CPU on Motherboard The CPU and motherboard are sensitive to electrostatic discharge. The CPU is secured to the socket on the motherboard with a locking assembly . CAUTION: When handling a CPU, do not touch the CPU contacts. Thermal compound Helps keep the CPU cool. To install a used CPU, clean it and the base of the heat sink with isopropyl alcohol to remove the old thermal compound. Heat Sink/Fan Assembly The Heat Sink/Fan Assembly is a two-part cooling device. The heat sink draws heat away from the CPU. Install RAM RAM provides temporary data storage for the CPU and should be installed in the motherboard before the motherboard is placed in the computer case. 54 Computer Systems Maintenance

55. The Motherboard After installing the previous components, the motherboard is now ready to install in the computer case. Plastic and metal standoffs are used to mount the motherboard and to prevent it from touching the metal portions of the case. 55 Computer Systems Maintenance

56. Install Internal Drives Drives that are installed in internal bays are called internal drives. A hard disk drive ( HDD ) is an example of an internal drive. HDD installation steps: Position the HDD so that it aligns with the 3.5-inch drive bay. Insert the HDD into the drive bay so that the screw holes in the drive line up with the screw holes in the case. Secure the HDD to the case using the proper screws. 56 Computer Systems Maintenance

57. Install Drives in External Bays Drives in external bays allow access to the media without opening the case. Some devices that are installed in this type of drive are: An optical drive is a storage device that reads and writes information to CDs, DVDs, or BDs. A floppy disk drive ( FDD ) is a storage device that reads and writes information to a floppy disk. 57 Computer Systems Maintenance

58. Install Adapter Cards Adapter cards are installed to add functionality to a computer. Some examples of these adapters are: A Network Interface Card (NIC) which enables a computer to connect to a network. It uses PCI and PCIe expansion slots on the motherboard. A wireless NIC enables a computer to connect to a wireless network. Wireless NICs use PCI and PCIe expansion slots on the motherboard. Some wireless NICs are installed externally with a USB connector. A video adapter card is the interface between a computer and a display monitor. An upgraded video adapter card can provide better graphic capabilities for games and graphic programs. Video adapter cards use PCI , AGP , and PCIe expansion slots on the motherboard. 58 Computer Systems Maintenance

59. Connect Internal Cables Power cables are used to distribute electricity from the power supply to the motherboard and other components. ATX AUX Berg SATA Molex 59 Computer Systems Maintenance

60. Connect Internal Cables Data cables transmit data between the motherboard and storage devices, such as hard drives. Some of examples of this type of cables are: PATA cable SATA cable Floppy drive data cable Additional cables connect the buttons and link lights on the front of the computer case to the motherboard. 60 Computer Systems Maintenance

61. Complete Physical Installation Now that all the internal components and the power supply have been installed and connected to the motherboard, the following tasks should be completed: Re-Attach the side panels: Most computer cases have two panels, one on each side. Some computer cases have one three-sided cover that slides down over the case frame. Connect the External Cables: These cables are normally connected to the back of the computer. Here are some common external cable connections: Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, USB, Ethernet, Power. 61 Computer Systems Maintenance

62. Boot the Computer 62 Computer Systems Maintenance

63. Boot the Computer POST, BIOS, UEFI BIOS Beep Codes and Setup As the computer boots, it checks its own critical components (POST). The firmware (BIOS or UEFI) uses beep codes to indicate any errors. Critical components include: video card(s), memory and I/O devices. A POST card can be used to help debugging POST problems. BIOS and CMOS BIOS is a firmware; all motherboards need a firmware to operate. Some aspects of BIOS can be configured by the user. BIOS settings are stored in CMOS to survive reboots. 63 Computer Systems Maintenance

64. Boot Computer for the First Time When the computer is booted, the basic input/output system ( BIOS ) will perform a power-on self test ( POST ) to check on all of the internal components. The BIOS contains a setup program used to configure settings for hardware devices. The configuration data is saved to a special memory chip called a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) or can be saved in nonvolatile memory which does not need power to retain settings. POST checks to see that all of the hardware in the computer is operating correctly. If a device is malfunctioning, an error or a beep code alerts the technician that there is a problem. 64 Computer Systems Maintenance

65. What Is BIOS? BIOS = Basic Input Output System BIOS is firmware that Identifies connected system devices. CPU RAM Keyboard Mouse CD-ROM Display Tests system devices (Power-On Self-Test) Initializes the system devices 65 Computer Systems Maintenance

66. BIOS Configuration Technicians use the BIOS information to learn about installed components: CPU – Manufacturer and speed RAM - Manufacturer and speed Hard Drive - Manufacturer, size, and type Optical Drive - manufacturer and type Technicians use BIOS to: Set Time and Date Disable Devices Set Boot Order Adjust Clock Speed Enable Virtualization 66 Computer Systems Maintenance

67. BIOS Configuration Technicians can set the following BIOS security features BIOS passwords Drive encryption Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Lojack Lock the computer remotely. Display a message so that a lost computer can be returned to the owner. Delete sensitive data on the computer if stolen. Locate the computer using geotechnology. 67 Computer Systems Maintenance

68. BIOS Configuration Bios Built-in Hardware Monitoring Temperatures Fan Speeds Voltages Clock and Bus Speeds Intrusion Detection Built-in Diagnostics Start test, Hard drive test, Memory test 68 Computer Systems Maintenance

69. There are several ways to determine who the BIOS manufacturer is: Watch the monitor when the computer boots. Check the computer or motherboard manual. Remove the cover of the computer and look at the chip. Reboot the computer and hold down several keys at once or unplug a drive. 69 Computer Systems Maintenance

70. BIOS Settings and Screens Common methods to access the BIOS/CMOS editor during bootup: Esc Del F1 F2 F10 Ctrl+Alt+? Most system splash screens provide information on which key to press. When in doubt, consult the motherboard manual. 70 Computer Systems Maintenance

71. Motherboard Component Upgrades If the motherboard is upgraded or replaced, the CPU may need to be replaced CPU architectures are installed in these common socket connection designs: Zero-Insertion Force (ZIF) Land Grid Array (LGA) Pin Grid Array (PGA) Single-Edge Connector (SEC) – no longer commonly used Low-Insertion Force (LIF) - no longer commonly used 71 Computer Systems Maintenance

72. Upgrading the CPU The new CPU must: fit into the existing CPU socket. be compatible with the motherboard chipset. operate with the existing motherboard and power supply. must operate with the existing RAM. The RAM may need to be upgraded or expanded to take advantage of the faster CPU. might require a different heat sink and fan assembly. 72 Computer Systems Maintenance

73. Upgrading RAM Prior to upgrading or replacing the RAM, answer the following questions. What type of RAM does the motherboard currently use? Can the RAM be installed one module at a time or must it be grouped into matching banks? Are there available RAM slots? Does the new RAM chip match the speed, latency, type, and voltage of the existing RAM? 73 Computer Systems Maintenance

74. Storage Devices Reasons for installing an additional drive: Install a second operating system Provide additional storage space Provide a faster hard drive Hold the system swap file Back up the original hard drive Increase fault tolerance When two PATA hard drives are connected to same data cable, one drive must be jumpered as the master, other drive must be jumpered as the slave drive.  Each SATA hard drive has its own data cable, therefore, there is no master-slave relationship between drives 74 Computer Systems Maintenance

75. RAID A Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) installation can provide data protection or increased performance when connecting multiple hard drive. 75 Computer Systems Maintenance

76. Input and Output Devices Replacement and/ or upgrade examples: Change to an Ergonomic keyboard or mouse Add privacy and antiglare filters to a monitor Add additional monitors Use the existing expansion slots or sockets. May use a USB connection. Add USB connections by installing a USB adapter card or add a USB hub. Install  drivers if necessary. 76 Computer Systems Maintenance

77. Preventive Maintenance and the Technician 77 Computer Systems Maintenance

78. Lecture 5 Objectives Preventive Maintenance Why preventive maintenance must be performed on personal computers. Troubleshooting Process How to troubleshoot computer problems. 78 Computer Systems Maintenance

79. The Purpose of Preventive Maintenance Reduce the possibility of hardware or software problems by implementing a preventive Maintenance Plan based on at least two factors: Computer location Computer use Benefits of Preventive Maintenance are: Reduced computer down time and repair costs. Increased data protection. Extended life of the components. Increased equipment stability. Preventive Maintenance can be divided into: Hardware maintenance Software maintenance 79 Computer Systems Maintenance

80. Preventive Maintenance Tasks Hardware Maintenance Check the condition of cables, components, and peripherals. Repair or replace any components that show signs of excess wear. Keep components clean to reduce the likelihood of overheating. Software Maintenance Verify current version. Review security, software, and driver updates. Update virus definition files. Scan for viruses and spyware. Remove unwanted programs. Scan hard drives for errors. Defragment hard drives. 80 Computer Systems Maintenance

81. Preventive Maintenance PC Preventive Maintenance Overview (Cont.) Clean the Case and Internal Components Dust or dirt can accumulate inside the computer. Accumulated dirt and dust block airflow inside the case. Use a low-air-flow ESD vacuum cleaner Make sure to keep the following internal components clean: Heat sink and fan assembly, RAM, adapter cards, motherboard, fans, power supply and internal drives. Inspect Internal Components Examine the computer on a regular schedule. The main components to inspect are: CPU heat sink and fan assembly, RAM, storage devices, adapter cards, screws, cables, power devices, keyboard and mouse. 81 Computer Systems Maintenance

82. Preventive Maintenance PC Preventive Maintenance Overview (Cont.) Environmental Concerns Computers should not be operated in harsh environmental conditions. Due to their mobile nature, laptops are subject to various environmental conditions. Guidelines to help ensure optimal computer operating performance include: Do not obstruct vents or airflow to the internal components. Keep the room temperature between 45 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (7 to 32 degrees Celsius). Keep the humidity level between 10 and 80 percent. 82 Computer Systems Maintenance

83. The Troubleshooting Process Follow an organized and logical procedure. Eliminate variables one at a time. Troubleshooting skills get better with experience. Before troubleshooting, protect user data. Step Troubleshooting Process 1 Identify the Problem 2 Establish a Theory of Probable Cause 3 Test the Theory to Determine Cause 4 Establish a Plan of Action to Resolve the Problem and Implement the Solution 5 Verify Full System Functionality and, if Applicable, Implement Preventive Measures 6 Document Findings, Actions, and Outcomes 83 Computer Systems Maintenance

84. Troubleshooting Process Troubleshooting Process Steps Identify the Problem Ask the customer questions and be respectful. Use both open-ended and closed-ended questions. Listen to beep codes. Use BIOS or UEFI to identify POST problems. Use Event Viewer, Device Manager, Task Manager and other diagnostics tools to help identifying the problem. 84 Computer Systems Maintenance

85. Troubleshooting Process Troubleshooting Process Steps (Cont.) Establish a Theory of Probable Cause Create a list of the most common reasons for the error.  List the easiest or most obvious causes at the top and more complex causes at the bottom. Research the symptoms. Test the Theory to Determine Cause Test your theories one at a time. If none of the theories can be confirmed, create new ones. Establish a Plan of Action to Resolve the Problem and Implement the Solution Write down a plan to solve the identified problem. May require simple or complex procedures. 85 Computer Systems Maintenance

86. Troubleshooting Process Troubleshooting Process Steps (Cont.) Verify Full System Functionality and, if applicable, Implement Preventive Measures The troubleshooting process is not over until full system functionality is confirmed. If the system is working properly, implement preventive measures if needed. Document Findings, Actions and Outcomes Explain the problem to the customer, both verbally and in writing. The customer should try to reproduce the problem after the solution has been implemented. Document the entire process for future reference. 86 Computer Systems Maintenance

87. Troubleshooting Process Common Problems and Solutions PC Common Problems and Solutions Computer problems can be attributed to hardware, software, networks, or some combination of the three. Common PC hardware problems include: Storage device problems Motherboard and internal components problems Power supply problems CPU and memory problems 87 Computer Systems Maintenance

88. PC Common Problems and Solutions Storage device problems - loose or incorrect cable connections, incorrect drive and media formats, and incorrect jumper and BIOS settings. Motherboard and internal component problems -incorrect or loose cables, failed components, incorrect drivers, and corrupted updates. Power supply problems - faulty power supply, loose connections, and inadequate wattage. CPU and memory problems - faulty installations, incorrect BIOS settings, inadequate cooling and ventilation, and compatibility issues. 88 Computer Systems Maintenance

89. Lecture 5 Summary Regular preventive maintenance reduces hardware and software problems. Before beginning any repair, back up the data on a computer. The troubleshooting process is a guideline to help solve computer problems in a logical and efficient manner. Document every solution that is tried, even if it fails. The documentation that is created will become a useful resource. 89 Computer Systems Maintenance

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