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COMPUTER ASSEMBLY

Chapter 3

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Objective
Objective

3.1 Assemble the Computer

Build a Computer.
3.2 Boot the Computer
Explain how to verify BIOS and UEFI
settings.
3.3 Upgrade and Configure a
Computer
Explain how to upgrade components in
a computer system to meet
requirements.

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3.1 Assemble the Computer

Step to building a computer is acquiring the parts.
A computer is made up of a case (or chassis) which houses
several important internal components, and provides places
to connect the external components, including non-
peripherals.

3.1.1 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.
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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.

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3.1.2 Install the Motherboard

Install the CPU, Heatsink
and Fan Assembly
 Install the CPU and the heat
sink and fan assembly on
the motherboard before the
motherboard is placed in the
computer case.
 CPU and motherboard are highly sensitive to ESD.
 Use the markings on the CPU and motherboard to properly
align and install the CPU.
 Thermal compounds help dissipating CPU heat and are
strongly recommended.
 Heat sinks and fans should also be properly aligned for
correct installation.
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The Cooler CPU Fan

Install RAM
 RAM may be installed on the
motherboard before the
motherboard is installed in the
computer case.
 RAM is highly sensitive to ESD.

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 Use the documentation provided with the motherboard

and RAM for more information on RAM installation.
 RAM is designed to install in one specific direction. Make
sure to check the markings before applying pressure

Install the Motherboard

 When the CPU, heat sink,
fan and RAM are installed
on the motherboard, the
motherboard can installed
in the case.

 Use proper plastic standoffs to securely install the

motherboard in the case and avoid short circuits.

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 The I/O connectors on the

back of the motherboard
should be aligned with the
openings in the I/O plate.

3.1.3 Install the Drives

Install the Internal Drive
• Internal drives are installed in empty
hard drive bays found in the case.
• The empty bay must match the
drive’s size.

3.5”Hard disk

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• Leave some space between

the drives when installing
multiple drives.
• The drive’s metal plate
should face up to allow better
heat dissipation.

SATA Storage/2.5 inch SSD

Install the Optical Drive
 Commonly installed in 5.25
inch (13.34 cm.) drive bays.
 Optical drives are accessed
from the front of the case.

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3.1.4 Install the Adapter Cards

Types of Adapter Cards
• Examples of adapter cards include: video,
Ethernet and wireless network, sound, TV
tuner, video capture, external ports such as
USB, FireWire, Thunderbolt.
• PCI and PCIe are two common slots for
adapter cards.

Install a Wireless NIC (if necessary)

 Commonly use PCI or PCIe
expansion slots or USB connectors.
 Locate an empty expansion slot and
follow the manufacturer instructions
for proper installation.

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Install a Video Adapter Card

 Commonly uses PCI, AGP or
PCIe expansion slots.
 Many video cards require an
external power supply.
 Due to their cooling systems,
modern video cards take
more space inside the case.
Be sure to plan for the extra
space needed.

3.1.5 Install the Cables

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Connect Power to Motherboard

 Motherboards require power to operate.
 Motherboards also relay power to components and adapter
cards.
 Refer to the motherboard and power supply documentation
to ensure compatibility of power supply and motherboard
connectors.
 Modern motherboards require two power connectors for
operation.
 Align the proper connectors and press it down against the
motherboard.
 Remember: If it is difficult to plug in a cable or other part,
something is wrong. Do not use more force.

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Connect Power to the Internal Drive and Case Fans

 Some drives accept different power connectors for
compatibility.
 4-pin Molex and 15-pin SATA are common hard drive
connectors.
 Align the proper connectors and gently press it against the
other end.
 Fans also need power and use 3-pin or 4-pin connectors.

4-pin Molex 15-pin SATA

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Connect the Internal Data

Cables
 The internal and optical
drives typically connect to
the motherboard through
SATA cables.
 SATA are keyed to fit in only
one direction. They also have
locking tabs.
 Locate the SATA socket on
the motherboard, align the
connector and press it gently
to connect.

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Install the Front Panel Cables

 Most of the case’s front panel controls, ports and
connectors also connect to the motherboard.
 Front panel cables and connected are usually not keyed.
 The front panel cables that must be connected to the
motherboard include: power button, reset button, status
LEDs and the speakers.

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Reassemble the Case

 Double-check cables and
components to ensure that all are
correctly installed.
 Secure case cover screws.
 Watch for small wires hanging off the
case to avoid pinching them.

Install the External Cables

 The power cable should be the last
cable to be connected.
 External cables include: video
cable, USB cables, network cable,
speakers and microphones.

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3.2 Boot the Computer

To boot (as a verb; also "to boot up") a computer is to load an
operating system into the computer's main memory or
random access memory (RAM). Once the operating system is
loaded ,it's ready for users to run applications.
3.2.1 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.

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BIOS Setup Program

• Allows the user to change
BIOS settings.
• Common reasons for
changes in the BIOS are
system optimizations and
hardware changes.
• Can be accessed by
pressing the proper key or
key combination during
startup.
• Refer to the motherboard
documentation for details.

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UEFI Setup Program

Unified Extensible Firmware
Interface (UEFI) is a
specification for a software
program that connects a
computer's firmware to its
operating system (OS)

 UEFI is also a firmware.

 Performs the same tasks performed by BIOS and more.
 Designed to eventually make BIOS obsolete.
 Can also be accessed by pressing the proper key or key
combination during startup.
 Refer to the motherboard documentation for details.
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3.2.2 BIOS and UEFI Configuration

BIOS Component Information
• BIOS or UEFI can provide
information about the installed
hardware, including: CPU, RAM,
hard drives and optical drives.
• This information can be useful
when troubleshooting.

BIOS Configurations
 Allows for customizing specific aspects of the computer
hardware
 The customizable variables and features are manufacturer
specific.

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• BIOS settings typically have a direct impact on

hardware; incorrect settings have an adverse effect.
• Main BIOS configuration settings include: time and
date, disable devices, boot order, clock speed,
virtualization.

BIOS Security Configuration

 BIOS includes features to protect BIOS settings, data and
recovery options.
 Common BIOS security features include: BIOS passwords,
Drive Encryption, LoJack, Trusted Platform Module and
Secure Boot.

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BIOS Hardware Diagnostics and Monitoring

 Useful for monitoring the activity of the motherboard and
connected hardware.
 Common BIOS hardware diagnostic features include:
temperature (CPU, RAM and airflow), fan speeds, voltages,
clock and bus speeds, intrusion detection and built-in
diagnostics.

UEFI EZ Mode
 Newer computers replaced BIOS by UEFI firmware.
 UEFI includes many new major features to address
different BIOS shortcomings.
 Among the changes introduced by UEFI is a new GUI.
 EZ Mode provides an overview of basic system information.

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UEFI Advanced Mode

 Advanced Mode includes more
involved features including: Ai
Tweaker, Advanced, Monitor
and Boot.

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3.3 Upgrade and Configure a Computer

3.3.1 Motherboard and Related Components

Motherboard Component Upgrades

• Motherboard upgrades typically lead
to other components needing to be
upgraded.
• The new motherboard may also
require a new case.

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Upgrade the Motherboard

 Record the front panel wire locations if the case
documentation is not available.
 The power should be connected last.
 Adapters may be needed.

Upgrade the BIOS

• Firmware updates bring fixes and new features.
• BIOS and UEFI include tools to facilitate
upgrades.
• Modern firmware no longer requires ROM chip
replacement.
• Consult the manufacturer’s website to download
firmware updates.

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Upgrade CPU and Heat Sink and Fan Assembly

 The new CPU will likely require a new heat sink and
fan assembly.
 The firmware tools can be used to monitor the
temperature, fan speed and airflow.

Upgrade RAM
When upgrading RAM, be sure to consider:
 Type of RAM currently in use.
 Are there available RAM slots?
 RAM module installation scheme.
 New RAM speed, latency, type,
 and voltage.
Does it all match the existing RAM?
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3.3.2 Storage Devices

Upgrade Storage Devices
 Ensure the motherboard supports the data transfer
standards used by the new drive. (ATA, SATA, etc)
 A new drive can provide:
 More storage space
 Increase read/write speed
 Space for a second
operating system
 Increased the system
swap file
 Fault tolerance
 Backup

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3.3.3 – Peripheral Devices

Upgrade Input and Output

Devices
 Keyboards and mice upgrades
can be done to address user
disabilities, poor ergonomics or
to accommodate a special task.

 Monitor upgrades can provide better resolution, more screen

area or better image quality.
 Multiple monitors is considered to be a monitor upgrade.
 New devices require new drivers; consult the manufacturer’s
website to download the latest driver version.
 Signed drivers should be preferred.

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