Diagnosing Part2

Page
1. Recording Problem if you are having trouble reading a recorded disc. Some older
systems have both a CD ROM (reader) and a CDR (recorder).
2. Are you reading the right drive? If you have two physical drives, make sure the
operating system is actually looking at the drive the CD or DVD has been placed in.
Trust me, I have been fooled myself into opening up a machine by blind belief in
the wrong drive letter. Most drives have an activity LED that tells you when the
drive is active. Make sure the activity LED is lighting up on the drive you put the disc
in when you try to read it.
3. Does the drive read other discs? Try another disc, a factory CD in CD ROMs or CDRs
or a factory DVD in DVD ROMs or DVDRs. If it works, the problem is with the media
and not the drive. Make sure the disc you can't read is the right type for the drive
your are trying it in, ie, CD, DVD, CDR, DVDR, noting that many of the recordable
discs would not be readable in other players. Clean the disc with a soft bit of
flannel. The discs are plastics, so do not use solvents. Scratches can render a disc
unreadable, including scratches on the surface (label), which cause distortions in
the layer that is actually being read from the bottom. Try the disc in another reader
before chucking it out, it could just have trouble with the device you were trying it
in.
4. Does the drive show up in the operating system, on your desktop or in Device
Manager in Windows operating systems? If not, the first step is to reinstall the
driver. Get the latest driver from the manufacturer's website and install it. If you
can boot an OS CD in the drive, but the drive has disappeared from Device
Manager, try reinstalling the OS. If that does not make Device Manager happy, see
if there is a firmware update for the drive itself, though flashing a drive, just like
flashing a motherboard BIOS, should be a last resort. Even though the BIOS
registers the drive's presence, you can still try swapping the ribbon cable. Try
changing the transfer mode the CD is operating in CMOS Setup to a lower speed, if
that is possible. Try swapping the drive to another lead from the power supply,
even though it's already "awake" enough for the BIOS to have registered its
presence. The laser lens in the drive could be incredibly dirty, so if you can find an
inexpensive cleaning kit, it is worth a try.
5. You could have a simple cabling problem or Master/Slave conflict. If the drive is the
Slave on primary IDE controller with the hard drive, move it to the secondary IDE
controller as the Master (requires another IDE ribbon cable). If you already have
another device installed as the secondary Master, you can try the drive as the
secondary Slave or temporarily replace the secondary Master for the sake of seeing
if
PC HARDWARE SERVICING
The Strengthened Technical-Vocational Education Program
1|Page
it will work. If the BIOS is new enough (say, post 1997) to identify individual IDE
devices on the power up screen and it doesn't see your IDE CD or DVD, you aren't
going to get it to work. See the new illustrated guide for how to install a CD drive.
6.
Can you listen to music CDs through your speakers? The following assumes that
you can get operating system sounds to play from your speakers. If not, proceed to
Sound Failure. First, make sure that the volume controls in software are not turned
down. Next, if the drive is equipped with an audio jack on the front, stick in a cheap
headphone (if you have one) and see if the CD is playing. In any case, if the CD is
spinning and the time is advancing in whatever version of Media Player you have
installed, the drive is actually playing the CD. The audio patch cord from the drive to
the sound card or the sound port on the motherboard may not be connected, or
the device volume could be turned down in a software mixer panel. The easy check
for incorrect audio patch cable (3 or 4 wires) connection without opening the PC is
to try a multimedia CD, such as a game. If the sound works in the game, the
problem is a missing or improperly connected cable. Note also that in two drive
systems, the builder may only have patched the audio output of one of the drives
through to the sound card.
7. Does the drive cause the whole PC to tremble when it spins up? Is it noisy? Make
sure that the drive, if internal, is mounted with four screws, and level. Super high
speed drives, say anything over 40X, will vibrate like crazy if a disc is off balance,
either because it was chucked up wrong on the spindle, or because the disc itself
has some weighting problem. Aside from obvious physical flaws (like the dog or the
kid took a bite out of the edge of the disc) a miss-applied label can create an
unbalanced disc. Try ejecting and reinserting the disc. I would not keep running a
drive that vibrates badly. It could end up damaging the discs (discs have been
known to shatter at high speeds) and it does not do the other components in your
system any good to be vibrated, which can lead to connections working apart or
worse. If the problem only occurs with some discs, you can blame the discs.
Otherwise, I would look into a new drive.
8. Does your problem involve recording CDs or DVDs? If so, proceed to CD/DVD
Recording Problems. For a problem booting a factory CD in a recorder, stay here. It
has become increasingly difficult to tell factory pressed CDs from recorded CDs due
to the highly polished labels that can be easily printed for recorded CDs and DVDs.
Factory produced discs are usually silver on the read surface, while recorded discs
are often gold or green.
9. Does your system refuse to boot known good boot CDs, like operating systems
from Windows 98 on up? Try setting the boot sequence in CMOS Setup to boot to
the CD or DVD first. This should not really be necessary if the hard drive is
uninitiated, but I've seen it fix the problem. I have also seen some high speed drives
which take too long to spin up and report to the BIOS that there is a bootable disc
present. Sometimes you can get around this by opening and closing the tray, which
should cause the drive to spin up, and hitting reset right after you have done so.
With any luck, you will get the timing right so that the BIOS checks for a bootable
CD while the drive is still active.
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DVD and CD Repair

with Diagnostic Flowcharts
Warning! You must unplug your ATX power supply from the wall before working
inside the case. Click diamonds for troubleshooting details.
3|Page
Directions:
The class will be divided into five groups. Choose a leader for each group. The group will
prepare a chart and performed the task regarding Diagnostic Procedure for DVD & CD
Failure. After the activity they will be graded thru the given Performance Score Card
below:
PERFORMANCE SCORE CARD
Scoring
Performance Criteria
1 2 3 4 5
1. The students clearly identified the problem and applied the possible
solution correctly.
2. The students utilized actual tools/device in performing the skit.
3. The students applied safety precautions during the play.
4. The play gave students more critical thinking on the personal protective
equipment.
5. The students cooperatively performed the play.
5
4
3
2
1
Excellently Performed
Very Satisfactorily Performed
Satisfactorily Performed
Fairly Performed
Poorly Performed
4|Page
Diagnostic Procedure for Sound card driver and hardware problem

1. Is sound enabled in the operating system? In Windows, the basic "Sounds" menu is
found in Control Panel. Sound events that have little speakers next to them are
enabled. Enable sounds for some actions that you recognize (like "exit program" or
"minimize") and see if your speakers work now. Note that operating system sounds
don't need to be enabled for music CDs or games to work, but if you are here, we're
starting off with the assumption that you are not getting any sound out of the
speakers at all.
2. Are the speakers plugged in to a power source? The volume control on speakers
usually serves as an on/off as well. There are some super cheap speakers that do
not offer amplification, in which case there would not be any power cord, but do
not expect much in terms of volume or quality. Really ancient speakers may be
powered by batteries rather than a transformer, so if your speakers do not have a
power cord, double checks that they do not have a hatch for batteries.
3. Many older sound adapters and notebook computers have a manual volume dial,
as do most external speakers. Manual volume dials should be adjusted to
somewhere in the middle of the range, not all the way to one extreme or the other.
Did you check? Check again. You do not want to invite a friend over to help with
your sound problem, only to find the volume is manually turned down.
4. Have you loaded the best driver for the sound card? The best driver means the
most recent driver, so check the manufacturer's website for an update, because
your sound card may have been sitting on a shelf for a year before you bought it. If
the sound is integrated on the motherboard, check for an update at your
motherboard manufacturer's web site.
5. Does Device Manager register the sound card or integrated motherboard audio and
report that the device is working properly? Even if you don't have the proper driver,
Device Manager will probably identify it as a sound controller. Before you start
stripping down the system or chase off to conflict resolution, make sure the
adapter is seated in the motherboard slot.
6. If the Device Manager reports a resource conflict between any of the audio devices
and another device, look through all of your device reports and figure out where
the conflict is. It may be resolvable by changing the settings in Device Manager, or it
may take aggressive reshuffling of adapters. If you get a "!," "?" or "i" on the sound
controller in Device Manager, proceed to Conflict Resolution.
7. Check your documentation or the symbols on the sound card to make sure you
actually have the speakers plugged into the proper jack. On high-end sound cards
with front and rear speaker jacks, try the front speaker jack first. Check that your
5|Page
audio patch cables are all plugged firmly into the proper jacks and that the cables
aren't damaged. If you have USB speakers, they don't jack directly into the sound
card.
8. Software volume controls are the #1 problem with sound, and a real pain to figure
out if multiple people use the system. Aside from the primary volume control often
found in your system tray, there are various other mixer panels and volume
adjustments that get installed with the driver and are offered in various
applications. All of these can cause a
complete absence of sound if the "mute" box is checked. I do not have any magic
method for finding the mixer panel or any additional volume controls in a typical
system. The Multimedia icon in Control Panel is a good place to start.
9. Does your sound system work properly with everything except music CDs? If so,
proceed to CD and DVD Playback diagnostics. One good test is to try the speakers
and cables on another system, or another device with a speaker jack, like a portable
radio. Make sure you first turn the speaker volume control all the way down in case
the output is already amplified. If your speakers and cables don't work anywhere,
try swapping the cables to find out which is faulty. If the speakers and cables are
good, either the sound card is blown or you did not look hard enough for a hidden
mute in software.
10. If Device Manager only registers the sound card when you strip out all the
adapters except the video card, it's definitely a conflict. If you have another sound
card lying around, it's a good time to try it; otherwise proceed to Conflict
Resolution.
11. If your only audio support is built into the motherboard, make sure it is enabled
in CMOS Setup. If you are using a sound card, make sure any motherboard audio is
disabled in CMOS Setup. If you cannot get the operating system to recognize the
sound card, which is sure to be plug-and-play, shut down and unplug, remove all
the other adapters except the video card from the system, reboot and let the BIOS
and operating system adjust. Then shut down and unplug again, replace the sound
card, and see if you can get it going. If this works, you might still have problems
when you add the other adapters back in, but if you do it one at a time, at least you
will find out for sure where the conflict lies.
6|Page
Sound Card and Speaker Troubleshooting

Warning! You must unplug your ATX power supply from the wall before working inside the case.
Click diamonds for troubleshooting details
7|Page
Directions:
The class will be divided into five groups. Choose a leader for each group. The group will
prepare a chart and performed the task regarding Diagnostic Procedure for Sound card driver
and hardware problem. After the activity they will be graded thru the given Performance Score
Card below:
Scoring
1 2 3 4 5
solution correctly.
equipment.
8|Page
6
5
4
3
2
Fairly Performed
Poorly Performed
Diagnostic Procedure for Modem problem
1. The first troubleshooting question for a dial-up modem is, does your modem
actually dial the phone? If you have a desktop PC, there should be a little
piezoelectric speaker on the modem itself. Many people (and computer vendors)
turn down the volume for this in software, which you can find on the "Properties"
tab of the modems in Windows Control Panel. Notebook computers will normally
run the sound through the notebook speakers, which means the volume controls in
Windows and the volume dial built into the notebook body must both be turned
up.
2. Does the ISP answer? You should be able to hear the ISP's modem pick up and
whistle and hiss back at your modem through the speaker. If not, make sure you
are dialing the right phone number and that the ISP is not temporarily down. Just
dial the number from a regular phone handset and the ISP modem should pick up
and whistle at you.
3. Make sure you have the area code and any prefix for an outside line correct,
especially if you are dialing from a business. Dial-up lines in a business must have a
clean path through a business phone system (PBX - Private Branch eXchange), just
like fax lines. If the phone is always busy, call the ISP's tech support for help or try
one of the other phone numbers they provide. It could simply be that they don't
have enough modems available for the traffic in your area at certain times of day.
4. If you hear the modem dial but the dial tone remains until an operator picks up and
tells you that your phone is off hook, you're trying to use "tone" dialing on a "pulse"
system. This problem is easily corrected in the "Dialing Properties" of the basic
modem page in Control Panel.
5. Do you get an error stating that the ISP can't negotiate a connection, protocol,
anything along those lines? Unfortunately, this error is too generic to help much
with how to troubleshoot the problem. Even messages telling you to check your
password can be caused by just about anything. Try redialing several times without
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changing anything to make sure you aren't just encountering an overloaded

modem pool. While standards such as V.90 and V.92 are backwards compatible, it
pays to match your standard to the ISP's for both 56Kb/s performance and
reliability.
6. Call your ISP help line to confirm your login information if it is the first time you are
dialing in. Re-enter your password, remembering that caps usually count. Assuming
you have your username and password right, the odds are any errors reported are
not due to any protocol settings on your part, especially if you have not changed
the defaults. If the error crops up at random, it is usually due to the weather and
the time of day, as both play a major role in the circuit conditions of the telco
infrastructure. Stormy or damp weather can badly degrade the lines of older
telephone networks. Trying at different times of the day is also important for
troubleshooting modem problems, with the beginning of the business day, and a
period in the mid-afternoon usually being the worst times. I have actually run nonInternet modem applications on dedicated lines that showed a huge increase of line
noise during these periods, whatever your telco tells you.
7. Will your modem connect at a lower speed? You can change the maximum speed
the modem will try to connect at in Control Panel, but I have noted that the settings
do not always take effect, even after rebooting. You can search on the Internet for
the modem control string to force your modem to V.34 compatibility, then insert it
in the Advanced Settings for the modem which can be accessed through the
Modem Properties in Control Panel or Device Manager. If you succeed in
connecting at a lower speed, try going through the Modem Performance
troubleshooting.
8. Can you connect to a different ISP? The best test for eliminating modem failure is to
see if it will connect to a different service. If you can connect to a friend's ISP, it is a
definite proof that the modem is not bad. It does not mean that the ISP you can't
connect to is at fault, it could be a question of matching modem standards. By the
same token, if you can't connect to another ISP, it doesn't prove your modem is
faulty, it could still be a problem with line conditions. The current 56Kb/s standards
in use are V.90 and V.92 although some services still support K56Flex and X2.
9. If the software reports, "No Dial Tone", make sure you have the patch cord from
the modem to the wall jack plugged into the "line" jack of the modem. The "phone"
jack on the modem is for plugging in a regular telephone to use when you are not
online. If the wall jack is live, try changing the telephone patch cord running from
the "line" jack on the modem to the jack on the wall. Check the phone jack at the
wall with a telephone handset. If it doesn't work you need to troubleshoot the inwall wiring or try a different jack.
10. Does the operating system report the modem as present and operating? This
information appears in Device Manager in Windows. If not, reinstall the driver for
the modem. If an IRQ conflict is reported in Device Manager, resolve it by either
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changing IRQ in software (with a plug-n-play modem) or changing the IRQ jumper
on the modem for an old card. If you absolutely cannot get around it, you may have
an extremely unfriendly sound card or other adapter on the bus which is hogging
the IRQ the modem is capable of dealing with. Note that a modem can share an IRQ
with a serial port in some cases, though it can't be used when a device is actually
attached to that port. If you cannot resolve the Device Manager problem, either
you have a hardware conflict, or the modem is bad. See the illustrated guide for
how to install a 56K modem. Proceed to the Conflict Resolution chart.
11. Does the operating system or dialing software report the port is "in use" when
you try to dial? In Windows Control Panel > Modems, go to "Diagnostics," select
your modem, and click on "More Info". Try shutting down and rebooting. The "port
in use" error is due to another active software application claiming the port the
modem is set on. You could get this error if you are already using the modem but
don't realize it for some reason, but it is more likely that you have recently installed
software for synchronizing a palm device or for a camera that is colliding with the
modem driver.
Network Troubleshooting Flowchart

Warning! You must unplug your ATX power supply from the wall before working inside
the case. Click diamonds for troubleshooting details.
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Directions:
The class will be divided into five groups. Choose a leader for each group. The group
will prepare a chart and performed the task regarding Diagnostic Procedure for Modem
problem. After the activity they will be graded thru the given Performance Score Card
below:
Scoring
1 2 3 4 5
solution correctly.
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equipment.
7
6
5
4
3
Fairly Performed
Poorly Performed
Accident reports
Forms are used to give specific details with regards to the accidents happened in the
laboratory during experiments.
Accident reports contain the following details:
Name of the person injured

Date and time of the accident
Type of injury
First aid given
Action taken to prevent further accidents
Accident report sample form
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Date:
Form No:
Accident Report Form

Rm. No:
Name:
Yr/Sec:
Type of Injury
Cause of Injury
Remedy
Techniques for Diagnosing Computer System
Techniques for diagnosing computer system

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Computer Diagnosis
Rules In Diagnosing Computer System
Factors Causing Computer Failures and Defects
Problem Isolation
Component Isolation
Computer Diagnosis
Sometimes when the problem with a system is not totally apparent and the problem
may be intermittent, using a basic common diagnostic procedure may help determine
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what is wrong. This procedure has a number of steps that, if followed each time, can be
of help.
Rules in Diagnosing Computer System
1. Know the facts

Educate oneself on all aspects and operation of computer parts.
Continuous learning on computer technology.
2. Use your common sense
3. Focus on Field Replaceable Units
Identify the different types of FRU that can be used for replacement or
subassembly.
4. Proper assembly and disassembly
Factors Causing Computer Failures and Defects
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Peopleware
Firmware
Software
Hardware
Static(ESD)
Electricity
Peopleware
Untrained personnel would probably damage programs in PC.
Firmware
Programs or software burnt in chips may be corrupted.
Software
Corrupted operating systems would cause the system to fail.
Hardware
Defective hardware components would lead to computer malfunction.

Hardware conflicts and viruses can hinder your computers performance.
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ESD (Electro Static Discharge)
Electro static discharge can easily damage sensitive components in your computer.
Electricity
Incoming supply from AC outlet must be regulated, power surges can damage
computer units.
Problem Isolation
Problem isolation is a detective work in which you need to determine what is out of
the ordinary by making detailed observation of what is not working normally and record
any information as you proceed. The information you will gather will help you diagnose
your computer. You need to observe wisely. Look for any abnormalities in the unit, any
change in smell or foreign smell, listen to all the sounds, and error codes.
Component Isolation
This section will aid in determining components in your system which are failing.
First, most systems have three (3) major components; monitor, system unit, and printers.
Some have multiple external devices. To troubleshoot, you need to isolate major
components which are failing to operate.
Figure 1. Computer system connections
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Faulty Connection of Computer Peripherals
Equipment, Tools, and Materials:

System unit,
Monitor,
Keyboard
Mouse
Printer
Power plugs
AVR.
Common Connection Errors
Given the different equipment, diagnose and identify common connection error messages
and symptoms in the computer system.
You will be assessed using the following criteria

Evaluation:
PASSED
FAILED
CRITERIA
1. Sequence of steps in diagnosing is followed.
2. Safety precautions are observed.
3. Standard procedures in diagnosing are performed.

Total
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Program course
: Computer Hardware Servicing NCII
Unit of Competency
: Diagnose and Troubleshoot Computer System
Module
: Diagnosing and Troubleshooting of Computer System
LO.3 Title
: Replace and provide remedies for defective computer parts
Assessment Criteria:
1. Necessary corrections and improvements or adjustments are executed with the
approval of the client and the teacher in-charge.
2. Discarding or replacement of defective components/pats abiding with
environmental laws and regulations is carried out.
3. Accidental events or conditions are responded to according to the established
standards and procedures.
4. OHS standards are considered in the choice of the equipment.
Resources:
Equipment/Facilities
Tools & Instruments
Supplies & Materials
Server
Multi-tester
Connectors, RJ45
Computer peripherals
Diagnostic software
Adaptors
Desktop computers
Appropriate software
Bus wires and cables
Glasses
Assorted pliers
Mask
Assorted screw drivers
Computer storage media
Gloves
Soldering gun
Anti-static wrist strap
Allen key
USB Flash drive
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Reference:
1. McLaughlin,Robert, Sasser,Susan, Ralston,Mary.Fix Your Own PC.Philippine
Graphic Arts, Inc Tandang Sora St.Caloocan City
2. Meralco Faoundation. Microcomputer Servicing Plus. Pasig City, Philippines.
3. Legaspi,Carlos, Caia, Mark Anthony. Operate A Personal Computer. Dasmarias
Computer Learning Center.Dasmarias,Cavite, Philippines
4. Bigelow,Stephen J. PC Technicians Troubleshooting ,McGaw Hill
5. www.helpwithpcs.com
6. http://en.wikipedia.org
7. www.techsoup.org
8. www.howstuffworks.com
9. www.microsoft.com/technet/network
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Computer Parts Replacement

When replacing computer parts and peripherals, you need to consider the following
factors:
1. Compatibility of the component or part
2. Consider the component specification
3. Components form factor
Compatibility of the Component
When replacing computer parts you should check if it is compatible with your unit. Double
check on your computer manual if the component you are replacing is compatible or not
with the unit because this may lead to system crash.
Component Specification
This focuses on the specification of the component. Check if the voltage rating, current
rating, memory size and frequency matches your computer unit.
Form factor
The components manufacturer should be considered. Check if the unit you are trying to
repair or upgrade is generic or branded units. Branded units have their own set of
components compatible only to their units, while genetic types can be used only to generic
type of units.
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List of Components Commonly Replaced in a Computer System
Memory- is technically any form of electronic storage; it is used most often to identify fast,
temporary forms of storage. It is commonly called RAM (Random Access Memory).
Video Cards- also referred to as a graphics accelerator, is an item of personal computer

hardware whose function is to generate and output images to a display.
Network Interface Card is also known as LAN card. A PC interface to network cabling. It is
a piece of computer hardware designed to allow computers to communicate over a
computer network
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Hard disk drive is a fixed computer storage medium
Motherboard is also known as the mainboard. It contains circuits that perform various
functions.
Processor is also known as CPU or the Central Processing unit
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General Safety Tips and Reminders

Observe good housekeeping in the area of the machines during and after
maintenance.
Place removed covers and other parts in a safe place, away from all personnel,
while you are servicing the machine.
Dress for the Job
Keep your tool case away from walk areas so that other people will not trip over it.
Do not wear loose clothing that can be trapped in the moving parts of a machine.
Ensure that your sleeves are fastened or rolled up above your elbows. If your hair is
long, use hair net or hair cap.
Insert the ends of your necktie or scarf inside clothing or fasten it with a
nonconductive clip, approximately three (3) inches from the end.
Do not wear jewelry, chains, metal-frame eyeglasses, or metal fasteners.
Remember: Metal objects are good conductors
After service, reinstall all safety shields, guards, labels, and ground wires. Replace
any safety device that is worn out or defective.
Finally, reinstall all covers correctly before returning the unit to the customers.
Electrical safety
Electric current from power, telephone, and communication cables can be hazardous. To
avoid personal injury or equipment damage, disconnect the attached power cords,
telecommunications systems, networks and modems before you open the
server/workstation covers, unless instructed otherwise in the installation and configuration
procedure.
Precautions
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Disconnect all power before:

Performing a mechanical inspection
Working near power supplies
Removing or installing main units
Before starting work on the machine, unplug the power cord.
Never assume that power has been disconnected from a circuit. First, check that it
has been powered-off.
Always look carefully for possible hazards in your work
Moist floors
Non-grounded power extension cables
Power surges.
If an electrical accident occurs:

Use caution
Switch off power
Send another person to get medical aid
Safety Inspection Guide
1. These steps will help you identify potentially unsafe conditions on these products:
Check exterior covers for damage (loose, broken, or sharp edges)
Power-off computer. Disconnect the power cord.
The power cord should be the appropriate type.
Insulation on the power cord must not be frayed or worn out.
Remove the cover.
Check for any obvious alteration. Use good judgment as to the safety of any
alterations.
Check for worn out, frayed or pinched cables.
Check that the power-supply cover fasteners (screws or rivets) have not
been removed or tampered with.
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Place your answer on your notebook
1 .Give the functions of each component.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Memory
Video card
NIC
Motherboard
HDD
2. Factors to consider when replacing a component.
1.
2.
3.
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Upgrading Your Computer Components

To upgrade means to change some parts with faster and better performing ones. These
parts may even cost less and more powerful.
Commonly Upgraded Computer Parts:
Monitors- replaced old CRT monitors to new LCD monitors.
Optical drives- old cdcommonly replaced with

DVD writers.
rom drives are

DVD-ROM
and
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Hard Drives- small capacity hard drives are replaced with faster and high capacity hard
drives.
Keyboards and mouse- keyboards and mouse are commonly replaced with optical
mouse and wireless keyboards.
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RAM (Random Access Memory)- upgrading the computers memory or RAM speeds up
the performance of the computer
Video cards- upgrade computers graphics card to improve the computer

performance in terms of graphics and games.
Processors- replacing the processors increase the data processing speed.
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Modem- installing a modem enables your computer to connect to the internet.
How to Speed up the Computer

1. Defragmenter utility: Automatically analyzes the empty disk space on the hard disk and
defrag all scattered files.
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1. Shutdown Unnecessary programs: Close all unwanted programs at the Windows

startup and this will automatically increase the windows loading time and speed of
the computer will also be increased.
2. Increased memory: Increasing the memory in the system will result to exceptional
speed of your computer.
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3.
Disk Cleanup: You can delete unwanted programs and files from your computer
and this will be helpful in increasing the speed.
4. Empty Recycle Bin: Delete all the files and folders from the recycle bin and you will
get the space of C drive for reusability.
Memory Upgrade
To make your computer faster, you can upgrade its memory. Here are the steps in
upgrading your computers memory
1. Remove the memory modules from the slot.
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2. In Fig 1.2 the notches we have marked as A are used

for the ejector clip on the DIMM slot.
The notches we have marked as B are used to align
the memory module with the DIMM slot key C as
shown in Fig 1.3.
In Fig 1.3 you can see the ejector clips (D), using your
finger, push these into the down position as shown in
Fig 1.3 this allows the memory to be inserted.
2. Now you are ready to install the module,

ensuring the notches line up with the keys
gently but firmly push the memory into the slot
until it is seated fully(see Fig 1.4), the ejector
clips should rise to the vertical position as
shown in Fig 1.5.
4. Now your memory is installed. Be sure you

have not loosened any cables while working
and also ensure that the memory module is
fully seated and the ejector clips are in the
vertical position.
Video card Upgrade
Installing the video card

Next, take the video card (hold it by the edges) and line it up with the slot paying careful
33 | P a g e
attention to the alignment notch. When it is aligned correctly, press gently but firmly until
the card is seated fully and evenly into the slot (see fig 1.3).
When you are happy that the card is firmly in place, insert the fixing screw fig 1.4 and
check to make sure you have not loosened anything during installation.
Replace the case cover and reconnect the mains power.
When you reboot your machine Windows (or other OS) should find the card automatically,
it may then ask you to insert the disk/CD that came with your video card, insert the CD
and follow the on-screen instructions to install the video card driver.
Hard Drive Upgrade
The first thing to do (after removing the case covers) is to locate the drive bay where the
hard drive will go (see fig 1.3 below).
In our example in fig 1.3 above we have a drive already in the bay so you can see more
clearly where it should be situated.
34 | P a g e
The next step is to attach the IDE and power cables.

In fig 1.4 below you can see a standard IDE Cable, note there are three (3) connections
(notice the difference in distance between the connectors). Connection A plugs into the
motherboard and then the slave and master connections are used for IDE devices such as
hard drives, if you are only installing one drive or the new drive is to be the master then
use the master connector, if the drive is to be the slave then use the slave connector.
The IDE cable will be marked down one side with a red or black strip, this denotes Pin 1,
match this with the Pin 1 indicator on the back of the hard drive.
The power cable you will find in your case is attached to your power supply, you can see an
example below in fig 1.5
Hardware Upgrade
Tool, Materials, and Equipment

Tools
PC
HARDWARE SERVICING
35 | P a g e
Philip Screw Deriver

Anti-static mat
Equipment
Network Card
Network Card Upgrade
Given the tools and materials, upgrade your computer by installing a network card.

Evaluation:
Passed
Failed
CRITERIA
2. Appropriate tools are used in upgrading
3. Necessary improvement and adjustment are done in terms

up upgrading.
.
Program course
: Computer Hardware Servicing NCII
Unit of Competency
: Diagnose and Troubleshoot Computer System
Module
: Diagnosing and Troubleshooting Computer

System
LO.4
Title
: TestSERVICING
repaired computer system
PC
HARDWARE
36 | P a g e
Assessment Criteria:
1. Validation of performed task I is executed ensuring safe operation.
2. Accidental events or conditions are responded according to established standards
and procedures.
3. An accomplishment report is submitted to teachers concerned in compliance with
the subject requirements.
Resources:
Equipment/Facilities
Tools & Instruments
Supplies & Materials
Server
Multi-tester
Connectors, RJ45
Computer peripherals
Diagnostic software
Adaptors
Desktop computers
Bus wires and cables
Glasses
Assorted pliers
Mask
Assorted screw drivers
Computer storage media
Gloves
Soldering gun
Cable tie

USB Flash drive
Reference:
1. McLaughlin,Robert, Sasser,Susan, Ralston,Mary.Fix Your Own PC.Philippine
Graphic Arts, Inc Tandang Sora St.Caloocan City
2. Meralco Faoundation. Microcomputer Servicing Plus. Pasig City, Philippines.
3. Legaspi,Carlos, Caia, Mark Anthony. Operate A Personal Computer.
Dasmarias Computer Learning Center.Dasmarias,Cavite, Philippines
4. Bigelow,Stephen J. PC Technicians Troubleshooting ,McGaw Hill
5. www.helpwithpcs.com
37 | P a g e
6. http://en.wikipedia.org
7. www.techsoup.org
8. www.howstuffworks.com
www.microsoft.com/technet/network
Testing Computer System
38 | P a g e
Three Major Components of Computer System:
Hardware
Software
Firmware
Test Your Hardware
Checking your computer hardware and its peripherals
1. Computer Monitor and its peripherals
Monitor and interface cables

Video card
Monitor power cable
Interface cables
Video cards
39 | P a g e
Monitor power
cable
2. Keyboard and Mouse
Keyboard connector
Mouse Connector
Keyboard connecter
Mouse connector
3. I/O port and devices
Connection between the I/O port and the peripheral device

A faulty cable between the I/O port and the peripheral device
A faulty peripheral device
Incorrect settings in the System Setup program
Incorrect settings in the system's configuration files
Faulty I/O port logic on the system board
40 | P a g e
I/O circuit board
Parallell ports
4. Power supply
Power cord
41 | P a g e
Fuse
Fuse
Power plug
Power supply
Testing Your Software
Check the different software installed in the computer.
1. Operating system
Run live updates for your operating systems to get the latest patches and
protection for your OS.
Run registry scanners to check the OS registry configuration
2. Application Software
PC
HARDWARE SERVICING
42 | P a g e
Check for live updates
3. Anti-virus software
Run anti-virus program

Check for virus signature updates
Check for spyware updates
43 | P a g e
Test Your Firmware
Firmware- a combination of hardware and software integrated on a chip.
How do you test your firmware?
Example: Check for the correct configuration on your firmware, You can accomplish this by
configuring the BIOS in the computer
44 | P a g e
Sample Accomplishment Report Form
Task to be accomplished
Hardware component testing
Status
Working
properly
Software testing
Not working
properly
Status
Working
properly
Not working
properly
45 | P a g e
Testing a Computer Unit
Tools
Multi-tester
Screw driver
Equipment
Computer unit
Monitor
Keyboard and mouse
Power cables
Materials
Bond paper
Ruler and Pencil
46 | P a g e
Hardware Testing and Documentation
Test the following computer peripherals and equipment with the use of the tools provider.
Document your testing with the use of an accomplishment form.
Assigned Task
Hardware component testing
Condition
Working properly
Not working
properly
Computer monitor
Power supply
Keyboard
Mouse
47 | P a g e
Evaluation:
CRITERIA
Rating
1. Sequence of steps in testing is followed.
20%
20%
3. Appropriate tools are used in testing.
30%
4. An accomplishment report is created.
30%
100%
48 | P a g e
Error Beep codes
When a PC is first switched on or reset it performs a special diagnostic test called a POST
(Power-On Self Test), to check all components in the PC, the POST program sends out a
signal to each device initializing each device's built-in self test procedure.
The POST test is a two stage process:
1. First, it will check all the basic components including among other things the system
clock, the processor, RAM, the keyboard controller and the
Video
2. After the video has been tested the BIOS will then indicate
any errors encountered by displaying either a numeric code or
a text message on the screen.
When a device fails the first part of the POST, the BIOS will send a series of beeps from the
PC's speaker (internal) to inform the PC user that there is a problem these beeps are coded
allowing the user to diagnose the troublesome component.
When the POST has been completed successfully, the PC will make a short beep to let the
user know everything is as it should be.
Three (3) major brands of BIOS chip

PC
HARDWARE SERVICING
49 | P a g e
1. AWARD BIOS
2. Phoenix BIOS
3. AMI BIOS
Each type of BIOS chip has it own error code
AMI BIOS ERROR BEEP CODES

Indicator
Error message
Solutions
1 Beep
Memory refresh failure
Check memory
Memory parity error
2 Beeps
Memory read/write error
Check memory
3 Beeps
Motherboard timer not

functioning
Check memory
Processor error
4Beeps
Gate A20/keyboard
controller failure
Replace motherboard
Replace processor
5Beeps
6 Beeps
Processor exception
interrupt
Display memory read/write

failure
Replace motherboard
Replace processor
ROM checksum error

7 Beeps
Replace video card
50 | P a g e
8 Beeps
CMOS shutdown read/write Replace BIOS

error
chip/Motherboard
9 Beeps
Bad cache memory

10 Beeps
11 Beeps
Replace BIOS
chip/Motherboard
Replace cache memory
51 | P a g e
Phoenix BIOS ERROR BEEP CODES
Phoenix BIOS beep codes are a series of beeps separated by a pause, for example:
beep --- beep beep --- beep --- beep beep would be 1-2-1-2
Indicator
Error message
Solutions
1-1-4-1
Cache error
Check cache memory

Check BIOS ROM
1-2-2-3
BIOS ROM Checksum
DRAM test rate
Check DRAM
Keyboard controller test
Check keyboard
controller
1-3-1-1
1-3-1-3
RAM failure
Check memory
1-3-4-1
1-3-4-3
RAM failure data bits of

low memory bus
Check memory
RAM failure data bits of

high memory bus
ROM copyright notice

1-4-1-1
2-1-2-3
Check memory
Check ROM
Test for unexpected

interrupt
52 | P a g e
AWARD BIOS ERROR BEEP CODES
Indicator
Error message
Solutions
One long beep and two

short beeps
Video error
Replace video card
Non-fatal error
Reset RAM, Check other

components.
Two short beeps
53 | P a g e
Error codes
Tools
Screw drivers
Equipment
Computer unit
Memory Error Codes
54 | P a g e
Given the tools and equipment, identify the memory error code by removing the module
in the computer unit
Evaluation:
CRITERIA
Rating
1. Observance of safety precautions.
30%
2. Appropriate tools are used in testing.
30%
3. Identifying the error code.
40%
100%
Total
Direction: Answer the following questions and place your answers on your answer sheet.
1. What does the acronym POST stand for?

2. What are the Three types of BIOS chip
3. Identify the following error codes:
1-2-2-3
1-3-4-1
2-1-2-3
1-1-4-1
1-3-1-1
55 | P a g e

Diagnosing Part2

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DVD and CD Repair

PERFORMANCE SCORE CARD

Diagnostic Procedure for Sound card driver and hardware problem

Sound Card and Speaker Troubleshooting

PERFORMANCE SCORE CARD

Diagnostic Procedure for Modem problem

changing anything to make sure you aren't just encountering an overloaded

Network Troubleshooting Flowchart

PERFORMANCE SCORE CARD

2. The students utilized actual tools/device in performing the skit.

Accident reports contain the following details:

Name of the person injured

Accident report sample form

Accident Report Form

Techniques for Diagnosing Computer System

Techniques for diagnosing computer system

Rules in Diagnosing Computer System

1. Know the facts

Factors Causing Computer Failures and Defects

Untrained personnel would probably damage programs in PC.

Programs or software burnt in chips may be corrupted.

Corrupted operating systems would cause the system to fail.

Defective hardware components would lead to computer malfunction.

ESD (Electro Static Discharge)

Figure 1. Computer system connections

Faulty Connection of Computer Peripherals

Equipment, Tools, and Materials:

You will be assessed using the following criteria

3. Standard procedures in diagnosing are performed.

: Computer Hardware Servicing NCII

: Diagnose and Troubleshoot Computer System

: Diagnosing and Troubleshooting of Computer System

: Replace and provide remedies for defective computer parts

Tools & Instruments

Supplies & Materials

Bus wires and cables

Assorted screw drivers

Computer storage media

Anti-static wrist strap

USB Flash drive

Computer Parts Replacement

List of Components Commonly Replaced in a Computer System

Video Cards- also referred to as a graphics accelerator, is an item of personal computer

Hard disk drive is a fixed computer storage medium

Processor is also known as CPU or the Central Processing unit

General Safety Tips and Reminders

Disconnect all power before:

If an electrical accident occurs:

Place your answer on your notebook

1 .Give the functions of each component.

2. Factors to consider when replacing a component.

Upgrading Your Computer Components

Optical drives- old cdcommonly replaced with

rom drives are

Video cards- upgrade computers graphics card to improve the computer

Processors- replacing the processors increase the data processing speed.

Modem- installing a modem enables your computer to connect to the internet.

How to Speed up the Computer

1. Shutdown Unnecessary programs: Close all unwanted programs at the Windows

1. Remove the memory modules from the slot.

2. In Fig 1.2 the notches we have marked as A are used

2. Now you are ready to install the module,

4. Now your memory is installed. Be sure you