Disassemble and reassemble a desktop computer safely while identifying external ports and major internal components
Disassemble and reassemble a laptop computer safely while identifying external ports, slots, and major laptop components
Understand how to approach hardware tasks methodically and safely to protect equipment and users
Exploring a Desktop Computer
Basic premise: every IT technician should know how to take a computer apart and put it back together
Slides cover the skill of disassembling and reassembling desktops, including identification of ports and major components inside
Step 1: Planning and Organizing Your Work and Gathering Your Tools (1 of 3)
Do backtracking notes to trace steps if needed
Remove loose jewelry to prevent catching on parts
Stay organized by keeping small parts in one place
Do not stack boards on top of each other
Do not touch board chips with bare hands or a magnetized screwdriver
Fingerprints on edge connectors may cause corrosion later
Never touch inside of a turned-on computer
Treat monitor and power supply as “black boxes” (do not assume you know their internals by sight)
Never remove the case cover or touch inside when powered
Watch out for sharp edges that can cut
Step 1: Planning and Organizing Your Work and Gathering Your Tools (2 of 3)
Essential tools used by a computer hardware technician:
ESD strap (ground bracelet)
Flat-head screwdriver
Phillips-head (cross-head) screwdriver
Torx screwdriver set (size T15)
Insulated tweezers
OS recovery CD or DVD
Many other non-essential tools exist
Use a toolbox to house tools
Step 1: Planning and Organizing Your Work and Gathering Your Tools (3 of 3)
Figure 1-1 shows tools used by IT support technicians when maintaining, repairing, or upgrading computers
Step 2: Opening the Case (1 of 23)
A computer case (also called the chassis) houses the power supply, motherboard, processor, memory modules, expansion cards, hard drive, optical drive, and other drives
Cases can be tower, desktop, all-in-one, or mobile
Step 2: Opening the Case (2 of 23)
This slimline tower case supports a microATX motherboard
Step 2: Opening the Case (3 of 23)
Loopback plugs:
Used to test a network port in a computer or other device to ensure the port is working
May also be used to test the throughput or speed of a port
Step 2: Opening the Case (4 of 23)
Figure 1-5 shows a loopback plug testing a network port and network cable
Step 2: Opening the Case (5 of 23)
Step-by-step opening procedures:
1) Back up important data
2) Power down the system and unplug it (unplug other peripherals as well)
3) Press and hold the power button for about 3 seconds to drain the power supply
4) Have a plastic bag or cup handy to hold screws
5) Open the case cover (some cases require removing the faceplate first)
6) Remove a side panel
7) Locate screws or clips holding the side panel and remove
Step 2: Opening the Case (6 of 23)
Figure 1-7: Decide which side panel to remove
Step 2: Opening the Case (7 of 23)
Figure 1-8: Locate the screws that hold the side panel in place
Step 2: Opening the Case (8 of 23)
Figure 1-9: On this system, clips hold the side panel in place
Step 2: Opening the Case (9 of 23)
Step 2: Opening the Case – slide the panel to the rear of the case after removing clips/screws
Step 2: Opening the Case (10 of 23)
Clip your ESD strap to the side of the computer case
After opening you will see the main components: power supply, motherboard, drives
Follow cables from motherboard to the component to know the purpose of each cable
Step 2: Opening the Case (11 of 23)
Figure 1-12: Inside the computer case
Step 2: Opening the Case (12 of 23)
Main components installed in the case (internal components):
Motherboard, processor (CPU), and cooler
The motherboard is also called the main board, system board, or mobo and contains a socket to hold the CPU
Processor processes data/instructions for the entire system and generates a lot of heat, so a fan and heat sink might be installed on top (processor cooler)
Step 2: Opening the Case (13 of 23)
All hardware components are either located on the motherboard or connected to it because they must communicate with the CPU
Step 2: Opening the Case (14 of 23)
Main components (continued):
Expansion cards (also called adapter cards): provide more ports than those provided by the motherboard; today most ports are provided by motherboards
Memory modules – random access memory (RAM): temporary storage for data/instructions as they are processed by the CPU
Dual inline memory module (DIMM) slots hold memory modules
Step 2: Opening the Case (15 of 23)
Figure 1-15: The easiest way to identify this video card is by looking at the ports on the end of the card
Step 2: Opening the Case (16 of 23)
A DIMM holds RAM and is mounted directly on a motherboard
Step 2: Opening the Case (17 of 23)
Main components installed in the case (continued):
Hard drives and other drives: hard drives (HDDs) are permanent storage; all drives sit in drive bays at the front of the case
Power supply (PSU): receives and converts house current to power internal components; many supplies include a dual-voltage selector switch to switch input voltage from 115extV to 220extV
Step 2: Opening the Case (18 of 23)
Figure 1-17: Two types of hard drives (magnetic HDD and smaller solid-state drive SSD) and a DVD drive
Step 2: Opening the Case (19 of 23)
Figure 1-18: A power supply with attached power cables
Step 2: Opening the Case (20 of 23)
Form factors: standards that describe the size, shape, screw hole positions, and major features of computer cases, power supplies, and motherboards
Two form factors used by most desktop and tower computers: ATX and microATX
Step 2: Opening the Case (21 of 23)
ATX (Advanced Technology Extended): most commonly used form factor today; originally developed by Intel; open, nonproprietary industry specification
An ATX power supply has a variety of power connectors; power connectors have evolved as new technologies require more power
4-pin and 8-pin auxiliary connectors: provide additional 12 V power for evolving CPUs
24-pin or 20+4-pin P1 connector: older 20-pin P1 connector can still work; supports PCIe slots
6-pin and 8-pin PCIe connectors connect directly to the video card; video cards draw the most power in a system
Step 2: Opening the Case (22 of 23)
microATX(mATX) form factor: a major variation of ATX
Reduces total system cost by reducing the number of expansion slots and power to the board, enabling a smaller case
Uses a 24-pin P1 connector; not as many extra wires/connectors as standard ATX power supplies
Step 2: Opening the Case (23 of 23)
Figure 1-26: This microATX motherboard by Biostar is designed to support an AMD processor
Step 3: Removing Expansion Cards (1 of 2)
If removing components: draw a diagram of all cable connections to the motherboard, expansion cards, and drives
To remove expansion cards:
Remove any wire or cable connected to the card
Remove the screw holding the card to the case
Grasp the card with both hands and remove it by lifting straight up (can also rock slightly end-to-end)
Do not touch edge connectors or touch a chip
Best practice: store cards in an antistatic bag
Step 3: Removing Expansion Cards (2 of 2)
Figure 1-29: Hold the retention mechanism back as you remove a video card from its expansion slot
Step 4: Removing the Motherboard (1 of 3)
Depending on the system, you may need to remove drives and/or power supply to access the motherboard
To remove motherboard:
Unplug power supply lines
Unplug SATA cables connected to the motherboard
Disconnect front-panel wires from the motherboard (front panel connectors); make a diagram before disconnecting
Disconnect any other cables or wires connected to the motherboard
Remove screws that hold the motherboard to the case
Spacers (standoffs) separate the board from the case
The motherboard should be free to remove from the case
Step 4: Removing the Motherboard (2 of 3)
Figure 1-33: Remove the motherboard from the case
Step 4: Removing the Motherboard (3 of 3)
Post Diagnostic Cards: help discover/report computer errors and conflicts at power-on self test (POST)
Firmware: programs and data stored on the motherboard; includes older BIOS firmware and newer UEFI firmware; usually referred to as BIOS/UEFI
POST: a series of tests performed by the startup BIOS/UEFI
If a boot problem suggests hardware issue: install the POST card in an expansion slot; the card monitors the boot process and reports errors
Step 5: Removing the Power Supply (1 of 4)
To remove the power supply from the case:
Look for screws that attach the power supply to the case
Do not remove screws that hold the power supply housing together
Some power supplies are attached to the case underside by recessed slots; turn the case over and slide to free it
Step 5: Removing the Power Supply (2 of 4)
Figure 1-36: Remove the power supply mounting screws
Step 5: Removing the Power Supply (3 of 4)
Figure 1-37: Use a power supply tester to test the output of each power connector on a power supply
Step 5: Removing the Power Supply (4 of 4)
Figure 1-38: A digital multimeter can measure voltage, resistance, or continuity
Step 6: Removing the Drives (1 of 5)
A drive receives power from the power supply and communicates data via a motherboard-attached cable
Most hard drives and optical drives today use the Serial ATA (SATA) standard
Tips to remove drives:
Look for screws on each side attaching the drive to the drive bay
Some drives have a catch underneath; lift up while sliding the drive forward
Some drive bays have a clipping mechanism to hold the drive in the bay; release the clip and pull forward
Some drives must be removed through the front of the case; front panel removal may be required
Some cases have a removable bay for smaller drives
Step 6: Removing the Drives (2 of 5)
Figure 1-40: A SATA cable connects to a SATA connector in only one direction; use red connectors on the motherboard first
Step 6: Removing the Drives (3 of 5)
Figure 1-42: Some cases require removing the front panel before removing the optical drive
Step 6: Removing the Drives (4 of 5)
Figure 1-43: Push down on the clip and slide the removable bay forward and out of the case
Step 6: Removing the Drives (5 of 5)
Figure 1-44: Drives in this removable bay are held in place with screws on each side of the bay and drive
Steps to Put a Computer Back Together (1 of 7)
Refer to diagrams made during disassembly
Install components in this order: power supply, drives, motherboard, and cards
When installing drives, it may be easier to connect cables to the drives before sliding them into the bay
Steps to Put a Computer Back Together (2 of 7)
Place motherboard inside the case; ensure ports and screw holes line up
Steps to Put a Computer Back Together (3 of 7)
Connect power cords from the power supply to the motherboard
Always need the main P1 power connector and may also need the 4-pin auxiliary connector for the processor
Steps to Put a Computer Back Together (4 of 7)
Figure 1-47: The auxiliary 4-pin power cord provides power to the processor
Steps to Put a Computer Back Together (5 of 7)
4. Connect wire leads from the front panel of the case to the front-panel header on the motherboard
To orient larger connectors, look for a triangle on the connector that marks pin 1; line up pin 1 with pin 1 on the motherboard
If labels on the motherboard are unclear, consult the user guide for help
5. Connect wires to front-panel ports (audio, USB, etc.)
Steps to Put a Computer Back Together (6 of 7)
Figure 1-48: Seven connectors from the front panel connect to the motherboard
Steps to Put a Computer Back Together (7 of 7)
6. Install the video card and other expansion cards
7. Double-check each connection
8. Plug in keyboard, monitor, and mouse
9. In a classroom environment, have the instructor check the work
Turn on power and verify the PC is functioning properly; if not, a loose connection is the likely cause
First Look at Laptop Computers (1 of 6)
A laptop (notebook) is designed for portability and can be as powerful as a desktop
Laptops use the same technology as desktops but are modified to use less power, take up less space, and operate on the move
Varieties include:
Touch-screen with stylus for handwriting
Rotating/removable screen to use as a tablet
Netbook: smaller, less expensive version with fewer features
All-in-one computer: monitor and case built together, sharing components with both laptop and desktop
First Look at Laptop Computers (2 of 6)
Ports common to laptops: USB, network, and audio ports
Video ports may include VGA, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, or HDMI
Most laptops include a lock connector for a cable lock
Most laptops include slots for flash memory cards
When a laptop misses a port/slot, USB dongles can add capacity (e.g., USB to RJ-45 for wired network or USB to Wi-Fi for wireless)
First Look at Laptop Computers (3 of 6)
Figure 1-56: Ports and slots on a laptop computer
First Look at Laptop Computers (4 of 6)
Figure 1-57: Use a cable lock system to secure a notebook to a desk to prevent theft
First Look at Laptop Computers (5 of 6)
Figure 1-58: USB-to-RJ-45 dongle provides a network port to connect to a wired network
First Look at Laptop Computers (6 of 6)
Figure 1-60: USB device providing cellular network connectivity (e.g., USB cellular dongle)
Special Keys, Buttons, and Input Devices on a Laptop
Buttons/switches may be above the keyboard
Most settings controlled by hardware buttons can also be changed via Windows tools
Some laptops have a docking port to connect to a docking station
A docking station provides ports to connect to a full-sized monitor, keyboard, AC power adapter, and other peripherals
A port replicator (universal docking station) provides ports to connect a laptop to peripherals without being brand-specific
How to use:
Plug peripherals into the docking station/port replicator
Connect the laptop to the station
No software needed
Docking Stations and Port Replicators (2 of 3)
Figure 1-65: A docking station for a Lenovo ThinkPad
Docking Stations and Port Replicators (3 of 3)
Figure 1-66: A port replicator with USB 3.0, USB 2.0, HDMI, DVI, and network ports
Special Considerations When Supporting Laptops (1 of 5)
Laptops and parts cost more than desktops
Consider factors that apply more to laptops: OEM warranty, service manuals, diagnostic software provided by manufacturer, OS customizations for laptops, parts ordered from manufacturer/authorized sources
Special Considerations When Supporting Laptops (2 of 5)
Warranty concerns: always check if the laptop is under warranty before servicing
When contacting support, have: laptop model, serial number, purchaser name, phone, address, service options (on-site, ship to service center, phone/online help)
Special Considerations When Supporting Laptops (3 of 5)
Service manuals and other information sources: service manuals save time and enable safe disassembly; some manufacturers only provide manuals to authorized service centers; sources include manufacturer website (Support/FAQ), third-party sites, user manuals; provides basic maintenance tasks
Special Considerations When Supporting Laptops (4 of 5)
Diagnostic tools provided by manufacturers: most manufacturers supply software to test components; sources include manufacturer website, CDs included with notebook, hard drive disks or floppies, PC-Doctor examples included with Lenovo, Fujitsu, HP notebooks; can be purchased separately
Special Considerations When Supporting Laptops (5 of 5)
Figure 1-70: Use diagnostic software provided by the manufacturer to troubleshoot hardware problems
Working Inside a Laptop Computer (1 of 7)
Upgrading memory, exchanging a hard drive, or replacing a failed component may require opening the case
Replacing a processor or motherboard is usually complex
Screws and nuts on laptops are smaller; use smaller tools
Working on laptops requires extra patience
Always wear an ESD strap
Working Inside a Laptop Computer (2 of 7)
Figure 1-71: Tools for disassembling a laptop
Working Inside a Laptop Computer (3 of 7)
Work methodically; organize screws/components:
Use pillboxes labeled by compartment
Use soft padded surface; tape screws to labeled locations; tape screws next to documentation
Keep notes to aid reassembly
Working Inside a Laptop Computer (4 of 7)
Figure 1-74: Use a notepad to organize screws and their locations
Working Inside a Laptop Computer (5 of 7)
Disassembly tips:
Locate the hardware service manual
Warranty may still apply; opening the case could void warranty
Take your time; do not force anything
Protect against ESD
Understand ZIF connectors
Pry up plastic covers with a dental pick or small screwdriver
Plastic screws may be single-use
Disassemble components in order
Use a plastic or metal spudger to slide along seals during prying
Working Inside a Laptop Computer (6 of 7)
Figure 1-76: To disconnect a ZIF connector, first lift the locking flap to release the latch, then remove the cable using the blue pull tab on this laptop
Working Inside a Laptop Computer (7 of 7)
Reassembly tips:
Reassemble laptop in reverse order
Tighten screws, but do not over-tighten
Before installing the battery or AC adapter, verify there are no loose parts inside the notebook
Exploring Laptop Internal Components
List of important components and the typical removal order:
1) Remove or disable the battery pack
2) Remove the hard drive
3) Remove memory
4) Remove the wireless card
5) Remove the optical drive
6) Crack the case
7) Remove the keyboard bezel
8) Remove the system board
9) Remove the CPU, heat sink, and fan
Exploring Inside an All-In-One Computer (1 of 2)
An all-in-one computer uses a mix of components sized for desktop and laptop use
Some components may require purchasing replacements directly from the manufacturer due to proprietary designs
Refer to the service manual for specific replacement directions
Exploring Inside an All-In-One Computer (2 of 2)
Figure 1-87: Components inside an all-in-one computer
Maintaining Laptops (1 of 3)
General guidelines:
Do not touch LCD panel with sharp objects
Do not pick up or hold by the lid
Only use manufacturer-recommended battery packs
Do not tightly pack the laptop in a suitcase; use a carrying case
Do not move while the hard drive is being accessed
Keep away from devices with strong magnetic fields
Always use passwords to protect your laptop on public networks or if the device is stolen
Keep at room temperature
Keep away from smoke, water, and dust
Do not power up/down unnecessarily
Maintaining Laptops (2 of 3)
General guidelines (continued):
Do not run the laptop in the case while resting on a pillow or blanket
If brought in from cold, do not turn it on until at room temperature
Protect laptop against ESD
Remove CDs/DVDs or USB flash drives before traveling
Take precautions if the laptop gets wet
Keep current backups of important data
Maintaining Laptops (3 of 3)
Cleaning tips:
Clean LCD panel with a soft dry cloth
Use compressed air for vents; clean keyboard, trackball/touchpad as needed
Remove keyboard to clean between keys
Use contact cleaner for stubborn residues
Remove battery and clean battery connections
Chapter Summary (1 of 3)
When hardware support technicians disassemble/assemble, stay organized, take careful notes, and follow safety procedures
Before opening a case: shut down, unplug, disconnect all cables, press the power button to drain residual power
Cases/PSUs/mobos use ATX and microATX form factors
An expansion card fits in a motherboard slot and is anchored to the case by a screw/clip
Chapter Summary (2 of 3)
Most HDDs/optical drives use SATA for data and power; SATA is the common standard
Laptop computers are designed for travel; use function keys to control features; USB ports can be used for expansion
If replacing an internal component is costly or labor-intensive, consider external alternatives
Manufacturer service manuals are essential when disassembling a laptop
Chapter Summary (3 of 3)
When upgrading laptop components, use same-brand parts or those recommended by the manufacturer
Special considerations for laptops also apply to netbooks or all-in-one computers
Internal laptop components you may need to remove when replacing a FRU include: keyboard, HDD, memory, smart card reader, optical drive, wireless card, screen, DC jack, battery, touchpad, system board, CPU, heatsink, and fan
All-in-one computers use a mix of desktop and laptop components