Lesson Plan (4A’s Format)

Lesson Title: Diagnostic Tools in Computer Hardware and Software Maintenance

Grade Level: Senior High School (ICT Strand)
Time Allotment: 1 hour

I. Objectives
At the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
1. Define and differentiate hardware and software diagnostic tools.
2. Identify the functions and uses of different diagnostic tools.
3. Demonstrate the proper use of diagnostic tools in troubleshooting computer
issues.
4. Recognize the importance of safety precautions when using diagnostic tools.

II. Subject Matter

Topic: Diagnostic Tools in Testing Installed Hardware Components and Other
Peripherals
References: Provided text from images (fluke-87.com)
Materials: LCD projector, sample diagnostic tools (digital multimeter, loopback
adapter, toner probe), worksheets

III. Procedure
A. Activity (Engagement)
1. Introduction (5 minutes):
o Show an image of different computer diagnostic tools.

o Ask students: “Have you ever encountered computer problems? How

did you or a technician fix them?”
o Briefly explain that diagnostic tools help detect and troubleshoot
hardware and software issues.
2. Group Activity (10 minutes):
o Divide students into small groups.

o Provide each group with an image of a diagnostic tool.

o Ask them to analyze the tool and guess its purpose and function.

o Each group presents their findings.

B. Analysis (Exploration)
1. Discuss the different hardware diagnostic tools:
o Digital Multimeter: Measures circuit integrity and electricity flow.

o Loopback Adapter: Tests computer ports.

o Toner Probe: Traces cables and detects signals.

2. Discuss the software diagnostic tools:

o FDISK: Creates and deletes partitions.

o Disk Management Tool: Initializes and formats disks.

o ScanDisk/CHKDSK: Checks file system errors.

o Defrag: Optimizes hard drive space.

o Disk Cleanup: Removes unnecessary files.

o System File Checker (SFC): Scans and repairs system files.

3. Ask students: “Why is it important to use the right tool for diagnosing
hardware and software issues?”
C. Abstraction (Explanation)
1. Summarize the key points:
o Hardware tools are used for diagnosing physical components.

o Software tools help detect and fix internal system issues.

o Proper use of tools ensures safe and efficient troubleshooting.

o Observing safety precautions prevents damage to components and

injury.
2. Emphasize health and safety regulations when using diagnostic tools.
D. Application (Elaboration)
1. Hands-on Activity (15 minutes):
o Demonstrate the use of a digital multimeter and loopback adapter.

o Let students try measuring voltage or continuity in a simple circuit.

o Perform a quick software diagnostic using CHKDSK on a computer.

2. Assessment (5 minutes):
o Short quiz on diagnostic tools and their functions.
 o Ask students to write a reflection: “How can proper use of diagnostic
tools help IT professionals?”

IV. Evaluation
 Participation in group activity (10 points)
 Hands-on performance (20 points)
 Quiz (10 points)
 Reflection (10 points)
 Total: 50 points

V. Assignment
Research and create a short report on other diagnostic tools not mentioned in class.
Include their purpose and how they are used.

End of Lesson

Good morning class!

Let’s check your attendance first…...
Okay, so before we proceed to our next lesson let’s have a review first of what we
discussed yesterday, I will call someone read and answer the following questions on
the board.
REVIEW:
1. Configuration- it is the way a system is set up, or the assortment of
components that make up the system.
2. Drivers- Small software programs that help the operating system.
3. Basic Input / Output System (BIOS)- It is a software stored on a small
memory chip on the motherboard that instructs the computer on how to perform a
number of basic functions such as booting and keyboard control.
4. Write down the 3 steps on how to obtain and install drivers for hardware devices
on a Microsoft Windows 2000-based computer.
Step 1: Determine the Hardware Manufacturer
Step 2: Obtain the Driver
Step 3: Install the Driver

Very Good, so yesterday you have learned about the installation of computer
devices and operating systems.
o Question? “Have you ever encountered computer problems?

o How would you able to know the cause of the problem?

Answer: Testing, by the use of tools

Okay very good, so our lesson for today is Conduct test on the stalled computer
system
 The most fundamental to test computer systems is to turn the system on
and check if it starts without errors, to ensures no hardware failures, power
supply issues, or software malfunctions.
 After installing new hardware components or peripherals, ICT must verify that
the system operates correctly.
Again, class what are the examples of hardware components.? Printers, keyboard,
mouse, network adapter. How can you verify by the use of what?
 They use various tools and utilities to check system performance, detect
faults, and confirm that the installation was successful.
What Are Diagnostic Tools?
Diagnostic tools are specialized instruments that help test, analyze, and
troubleshoot hardware components and peripherals. They help detect hardware
faults and ensure that devices are functioning properly.
But before that lets identify first the diagnostic tools in testing installed components
and devices
There are 2 types of diagnostic tools, a Hardware tool and software tools
So with the same group you have to identify which among this tools a software or a
hardware tools

You must be able to identify which software to use in different situations. Disk
management tools help detect and correct disk errors, prepare a disk for data
storage, and remove unwanted files.

Basic System Test and Diagnostic Tools

Initial System Test
The most fundamental test when working with computer systems is to turn the
system on and check if it starts without errors. This step ensures that there are no
immediate hardware failures, power supply issues, or software malfunctions.
After installing new hardware components or peripherals, ICT professionals
(Information and Communication Technology experts) must verify that the system
operates correctly. They use various tools and utilities to check system
performance, detect faults, and confirm that the installation was successful.

Use of Diagnostic Tools for Testing Hardware Components and Peripherals

What Are Diagnostic Tools?
Diagnostic tools are specialized instruments that help test, analyze, and
troubleshoot hardware components and peripherals. They help detect hardware
faults and ensure that devices are functioning properly.
Commonly Used Diagnostic Tools
1. Digital Multimeter (DMM)
 A digital multimeter is an electronic measuring instrument that can take
multiple types of electrical readings, such as:
o Voltage (V) – Measures the voltage levels in power supplies and
circuits.
o Current (A) – Measures the flow of electric current.

o Resistance (Ω) – Checks the continuity of electrical pathways.

 It helps verify circuit integrity and ensures that the computer’s power
supply and other electrical components function properly.
 A digital multimeter displays readings on an LCD or LED screen, making it
easy to interpret results.
 Common Uses:
o Checking the power supply unit (PSU) output voltage.

o Testing motherboard power connectors.

o Diagnosing electrical shorts in circuits.

2. Loopback Adapter (Loopback Plug)

 A loopback adapter is a small device used to test the basic functionality of
computer ports (such as network, serial, or USB ports).
 It works by sending a signal through a port and then looping it back to the
computer to verify data transmission.
 Each adapter is specific to the port being tested (e.g., an RJ-45 loopback
plug for Ethernet ports, a DB-9 loopback adapter for serial ports).
 Common Uses:
o Ensuring that network ports are working correctly.

o Troubleshooting communication failures in serial, parallel, or USB

ports.
o Diagnosing network connectivity issues.

3. Toner Probe (Cable Tester)

 A toner probe is a two-part tool used to trace and test network cables.
  The tool consists of:
1. Toner (Signal Generator) – Connects to one end of the cable using
an adapter (e.g., RJ-45 for Ethernet, coaxial for TV cables, or metal
clips for bare wires). It sends a tone signal through the cable.
2. Probe (Receiver) – Detects the tone along the cable’s path and
allows technicians to locate and trace it. The probe emits an audible
tone when placed near the correct cable.
 Common Uses:
o Identifying network cables in crowded patch panels or bundles.

o Checking if a cable is properly connected at both ends.

o Finding broken or faulty network cables in walls or ceilings.

Importance of Diagnostic Tools

Using diagnostic tools allows technicians to:
✅ Quickly identify hardware issues before they cause major failures.
✅ Verify proper installation of components and peripherals.
✅ Reduce troubleshooting time by pinpointing faults efficiently.
✅ Ensure network and system reliability by maintaining well-functioning
connections.
By understanding and using these tools correctly, ICT professionals can diagnose
problems accurately, maintain hardware performance, and prevent future system
failures.
4o

Software Tools
Just like hardware tools help technicians diagnose and fix physical issues, software
tools assist in identifying and troubleshooting software and hardware-related
problems in a computer or network. These tools are essential for IT professionals
and technicians as they help in:
 Diagnosing computer and network issues.
 Maintaining hardware components.
 Protecting and organizing data efficiently.
Some software tools come built-in with operating systems like Windows, while
others are third-party applications available for free or as paid solutions. Knowing
which tool to use in a specific scenario is crucial for efficient troubleshooting and
system maintenance.
Disk Management Tools
Disk management tools play a vital role in maintaining the storage integrity of a
computer. They help technicians perform various tasks such as:
 Detecting and correcting disk errors.
 Preparing disks for data storage.
 Removing unwanted files to free up space.
Common Disk Management Tools and Their Functions
1. FDISK
o A command-line utility used to create, delete, and manage partitions
on a hard drive.
o It was mainly used in older versions of Windows but has been replaced
by the Disk Management Tool in later versions like Windows XP,
Vista, and 7.
2. Disk Management Tool
o A built-in Windows utility that helps users manage hard drive
partitions.
o Functions include:

 Initializing new disks.

 Creating, deleting, and formatting partitions.
 Extending or shrinking disk volumes.
 Changing drive letters.
3. Format
o Prepares a hard drive or storage device for data storage by setting up
a file system (e.g., NTFS, FAT32).
o This process erases all existing data on the drive, making it ready for
new data storage.
4. ScanDisk (Windows 9x) / CHKDSK (Windows NT-based OS)
o These tools check for file system errors and disk surface issues.

o Functions include:

 Scanning for corrupted files and folders.

 Detecting bad sectors on the hard drive.
  Attempting to recover data from damaged areas.
o CHKDSK can be run via command prompt using chkdsk /f to fix
detected errors.
5. Defrag (Disk Defragmenter)
o Used to optimize the storage arrangement on a hard drive.

o Improves system performance by rearranging fragmented files for

faster access.
o Running defragmentation is beneficial for HDDs but not necessary for
SSDs.
6. Disk Cleanup
o A built-in Windows utility that scans for unnecessary files and deletes
them to free up storage space.
o Removes:

 Temporary files.
 Cached internet files.
 Unused system files.
 Recycle Bin contents.
7. System File Checker (SFC)
o A command-line utility (sfc /scannow) that scans and repairs corrupted
or missing system files in Windows.
o Essential for fixing system issues caused by corrupted files.

Importance of Disk Management Tools

 Prevents data loss by detecting and fixing disk errors early.
 Helps optimize system performance by managing storage efficiently.
 Allows for better organization of data through partitioning and formatting.
 Ensures stability and reliability of the operating system by maintaining
system integrity.
By understanding and utilizing these disk management tools, technicians can
effectively troubleshoot issues, improve computer performance, and maintain a
reliable system.