1.1 - Laptop Hardware: Professor Messer

Exam Objectives

Given a scenario, install and configure laptop hardware and components.

• Hardware/device replacement: challenging due to hyper-specific manufacturing to form factors; some laptops are easier to fix than others/you may gain experience with specific laptops. Manufacturers will typically provide documentation/repair information.

  • Battery: Power source when unplugged; some are modular/removable, and other batteries are inside the laptop’s case.

    • Typically Lithium-ion (Li-ion) or Lithium-ion polymer (LiPo)

    • Provide no memory effect - charging doesn’t make a limit on the capacity of the battery.

    • Charging does gradually diminish battery capacity - batteries eventually need to be replaced

    • Laptops have varying form factors and replacement batteries need to be the exact form factor required for the device

  • Keyboard/keys: Most-used laptop component and primary computer input

    • Composed of a few screws + a ribbon cable IN MOST CASES

      

    • Often include function keys for smaller spaces (i.e., keys that can add alternate inputs when combined with the Fn key).

    • Some repairs may require key cap removal/replacement - be delicate and consult manufacturer instructions

  • Random-access memory (RAM)

    • SO-DIMM (Small Outline Dual In-line Memory Module) is a type of RAM designed specifically for laptops, allowing for a smaller form factor/easier replaceability.

      

    • Some laptop memory is soldered to the system board; a full replacement must be done for those.

• Physical privacy and security components

  • Hard disk drive (HDD): Magnetic spinning disk drive - 2.5” form factors for laptops and 3.5” for desktops

    • Benefits: Cheaper, typically more storage space, longer lifespans

  • Solid-state drive (SSD): Non-magnetic disk drive; all memory and no moving parts.

    • Benefits: Silent, faster data access, less latency

  • SSD migration: SSDs can be inserted in the exact same place as HDDs, provided they have the same form factor (i.e., size).

  • M.2 SSD: Smaller form factor with no SATA connections/power cables - easy to install & replace

  • HDD/SSD replacement: Typically modular drives - open the laptop, unscrew the internal storage, and slide the drive out

    

    • M.2 drives are easier - remove a single screw and slide the drive out; similar to RAM installation

  • HDD/SSD migration: Aim to transfer user data from one drive to another:

    • Method 1: Install on OS on the SSD/second drive, move documents between drives, and install any required applications on the SSD (more time-consuming).

    • Method 2: Image/clone the previous drive and move everything from one drive to another.

      PROJECT IDEA: Copying an HDD to an SSD using VM software (CloneZilla for Linux and Disk2VHD for Windows)

      • Need imaging software - multiple vendors available; both open-source and commercial, can be included with the SSD

      • Some orgs use a single image file and copy that to multiple drives

    • Method 3: Drive-to-drive transfer - copy everything from the previous drive sector-by-sector to the new drive

  • Wireless card: Supports 802.11 (Wi-Fi) and Bluetooth connections - built-in to a laptop’s motherboard for newer laptops; older laptops typically have attachable Mini PCI or Mini PCI Express (Mini PCIe) cards to gain network connectivity.

  • Biometrics: Authentication method based on something we are (i.e., physical qualities, such as fingerprints/facial features) - requires additional hardware/configuration in an OS.

    • Relatively secure - face/fingerprints are difficult to duplicate and provide more security.

    • May be combined with a PIN or password for multi-factor authentication

  • Near-field communication (NFC) features: Short-distance networking that allows data transfer/authentication without touching a device.

    • Common on mobile phones and smartwatches.

    • Useful for authentication without passwords, such as hospital workstations or warehouses.

Troubleshooting Laptops

• Challenges in Repairing:

  • Unique computing environments designed for specific form factors.

  • Involves difficulties in accessing internal components for changes.

• Manufacturer Variability:

  • Laptops from different manufacturers vary in repairability.

  • Technicians often develop expertise in specific brands based on organizational purchases.

• Service Information:

  • Most manufacturers provide manuals detailing replacements for keyboards, displays, and internal components.

Power Sources for Laptops

• Battery Types:

  • Laptops generally include modular batteries, which can be easily replaced without disassembling the laptop.

  • Some laptops feature batteries soldered inside, making them non-modular.

• Battery Technologies:

  • Primarily lithium-ion and lithium-ion polymer batteries.

  • No memory effect; partial discharges are safe.

  • Capacity diminishes over years, often requiring battery replacement specific to make and model.

• Modular Battery Example:

  • A diagram showing a modular battery configuration that locks into place and can be easily replaced while traveling.

Laptop Keyboard Considerations

• Primary Input Device:

  • The keyboard is the most frequently used component, essential for operating systems interaction.

  • Integrated keyboards are usually connected with a ribbon cable.

• External Keyboards:

  • Can be used as a workaround for integrated keyboard issues through USB connections.

• Keyboard Layout Challenges:

  • Smaller laptop designs often lead to condensed layouts; function keys may be combined with other functions.

• Keycap Fragility:

  • Keycaps are delicate and require careful handling during replacement or repairs.

  • Importance of following manufacturer guidelines to prevent damage to delicate mechanics underneath.

Memory Upgrades and SO-DIMM

• Memory Management:

  • All operating system programs run in memory, which may need upgrading over time.

• SO-DIMM Overview:

  • Small Outline Dual In-Line Memory Module is used for laptops.

  • Modular design allows for easy installation/removal if a slot exists in the laptop.

  • Some manufacturers solder memory to the motherboard, necessitating full motherboard replacement for upgrades.

• Installing SO-DIMM:

  • Installation involves securing the memory module into the designated slot and ensuring it locks in place.

Laptop Storage Solutions

• Types of Storage:

  • Older laptops may use 2.5-inch magnetic disk hard drives, while newer models often feature solid-state drives (SSDs).

  • SSDs have improved speed and performance due to the lack of moving parts.

• Interface Types:

  • SATA for traditional hard drives and SSDs, M.2 for compact, modern SSDs.

  • Both types can be modular, allowing for easy upgrades.

• Storage Replacement Process:

  • For SATA drives: Open the back cover, disconnect old drive and replace with new one.

  • For M.2 drives: Removing with a single screw allows easy installation of a new drive.

Migration from Hard Drive to SSD

• Migration Strategies:

  • Installing a new operating system on the SSD and manually transferring user files/applications.

  • Creating a clone or image of the existing hard drive and transferring that to the SSD, preserving all user data and applications.

  • Software availability for disk imaging includes manufacturer-provided tools and third-party solutions.

Wireless Functionality in Laptops

• Modern Connectivity:

  • Newer laptops often feature built-in wireless functionality (802.11, Bluetooth) integrated into the motherboard.

  • Older models may support adding cards via Mini PCI or Mini PCI Express interfaces.

• Installation of Wireless Cards:

  • User-replaceable components, typically accessed via a removable cover on the laptop's back.

Authentication Options for Laptops

• Biometric Security:

  • Operating systems may support authentication through biometrics like facial recognition or fingerprint scanning.

  • Dual-factor authentication combining password with biometrics increases security.

• NFC Technology:

  • Near-field communication is becoming common for seamless authentication via mobile devices.

  • Allows quick access to laptops without traditional password input, particularly useful in environments like hospitals or warehouses.