Chapter 1: MAINTENANCE, UPGRADE AND REPAIR

Lesson 1: Computer Repair and Maintenance

Troubleshooting Computers 2

Flowcharting 3

Lesson 2: Initial Checkup of computer systems 4

Tools for Testing Computer Hardware 5

Lesson 3: Types of Tools 6

Safety Precautions 7

Chapter 2: TROUBLESHOOT SYSTEM AND NETWORK

Lesson 1: Troubleshoot Systems and networks 8

Troubleshoot Computer system and Networks 9

Chapter 3: MAINTENANCE, UPGRADE AND REPAIR

UPGRADING COMPUTER COMPONENTS
Lesson 1: Upgrading Computer Components

Upgrading Preparations 10

Upgrading Computer Components 11

Lesson 2: Upgrading the RAM 12

Upgrading the Processor (CPU) 13

Upgrading the Graphics/ Video Card 14

Lesson 3: Upgrading the Hard Drive/IDE and SATA Drives 15

Upgrading the Motherboard 16

Upgrading the power supply 17

Chapter 1
MAINTENANCE,
UPGRADE AND
REPAIR
Computer Repair and Maintenance

Objectives:
 Understand the process of computer repair and maintenance.
 Apply the safety precautions when handling components.

Troubleshooting Computers
There are various ways and different things that can go wrong
with your computer. But whatever it is, that is causing problem in
the computer, troubleshooting will be a process if deduction,
logic and some trial and error. However, whether the trouble is
easy or complex there are good practices to follow to ensure
proper repair and troubleshooting of the computer.

1) Document the whole process and steps you have taken –

You can even take photos and label them properly, this
way you will be able to recall what you have done and
avoid the same mistakes later on. The notes you have taken
will also be a good reference if you need to ask for help
from someone else.
2) Write down all errors message – the computer may provide
an error message to a particular trouble; it is a good
practice to write it all down. This information will be
important if you need to search the net or ask for help from
others who may have encountered the same error
message as you have.
3) Restart the computer – Many computer troubles may be
repaired or restored to good condition after restarting the
computer.
4) Check the cables – Check the cables of a specific
computer peripheral you have trouble with. The power
cable, keyboard, or mouse cable may have dislodged and
properly reconnecting them may solve your computer
issues.
Computer Scenario
 You have used your printer the day before. Today, you need to
print an invitation for a school activity but the printer would not
print. You go through the process of evaluating the possible
causes of this problem. The first thing that you do is to check
the power cable of the print if is plugged properly. A print has
an indicator light if it is connected to a power source. Next is to
check the connection between the printer and the computer,
you might have dislodge it earlier. Then, check the paper tray if
it still has paper on it, usually a blinking or red light my indicate
that is no paper on the tray. Then, check if there enough ink in
the printer's ink cartridge; usually, a blinking or red light my
indicate low or no ink. Let’s say the printer has ing and paper,
what could cause the printer's failure to print? You remember
that you updated your operating system yesterday after
printing. The update may have changed the computer printer
settings, so you may need to download also the updated
printer driver or re-install the printer driver. When you download
new printer software, restart both computer and the printer and
try printing, it is now working. This is example of a situation and
the steps taken to the eventual solution of a particular
computer problem.
Flowcharting
 Flowcharts are graphical representation of steps. It was
originated from computer science as a tool for representing
algorithms and programming logic, but had extended to use
in all other kinds of processes. Nowadays, flowcharts play an
extremely important role in displaying information and assisting
reasoning. They help us visualize complex processes, or make
explicit the structure of problems and tasks. A flowchart can
also be used to define a process or project to be
implemented.

Symbols used in Flowcharting

Initial Checkup of computer systems

Do the following Initial Checks of a computer system

1. Check that the computer is plugged in the power supply.
2. Check that the cord, plugs, USB, and connectors of the
devices are properly connected to the devices.
3. Check that the network cords are securely connected.
4. Check that the phone line has dial tone.
5. Check that the printer is turns on and contains link.
6. Check that the installed software has the proper
configuration.
7. Check the setting of the boot sequence.
8. Turn off the computer, wait for 10 seconds and turn it on
again.

For newly assembled computer system, do the following

routine check:
1. Check the POST (power on self-test).
2. Check loading time of operating system
3. Check the DXDIAG (DirectX Diagnostic tool).
4. Do audio test.
5. Check hardware status.
6. Check performance status.
7. Listen for any suspicious noise inside the computer.
8. Check for malware and virus by scanning.
Tools for testing Computer Hardware
 Selecting the proper tool will help you do the
maintenance or testing you require. Using the right tool
will avoid any damage to any part of the computer.
Safety is important therefor, do not use improper tool to
avoid hurting yourself.

To determine the best tool for the job, do the following:

i. Analyze the problem and the job to be done.

ii. Read the manual provide for the specific tool.

 Tools also need proper care. Regular maintenance and a

good storage are needed. It is important to keep all tools in a
secure and safe place to keep away from accidents. Always
examine the tools before using them to prevent harm or
accidents to the user.

Types of Tools
 There are tools that ate most commonly used for computer
hardware repair, maintenance and testing devices. Tools
should be properly cleaned, maintained and kept after every
use so that they will last long and always function properly.

Types of Tools
 Hand tools
 Electrostatic discharge (ESD) tools.
 Cleaning tools
 1. Electrostatic discharge (ESD) tools.
There are two ESD tools: the antistatic wrist strap and
the antistatic mat. The antistatic wrist strap protects
computer equipment when grounded to a computer
chassis. The antistatic mat protects computer equipment by
preventing static electricity from accumulating on the
hardware or on the technician.

2. Hand tools

Most tools used in the computer assembly process are small hand
tools. They are available individually or as part of a computer repair
toolkit. Toolkits range widely in size, quality, and price. Some
common hand tools and their uses are:

 Flat-head screwdriver: Used to tighten or loosen slotted screws.

 Phillips-head screwdriver: Used to tighten or loosen cross-
headed screws.
 Torx screwdriver: Used to tighten or loosen screws that have a
star-like depression on the top, a feature that is mainly found on
laptops.
 Hex driver: Used to tighten or loosen nuts in the same way that
a screwdriver tightens or loosens screws (sometimes called a
nut driver).
 Needle-nose pliers: Used to hold small parts.
 Wire cutters: Used to strip and cut wires.
 Tweezers: Used to manipulate small parts.
 Part retriever: Used to retrieve parts from locations that are too
small for your hand to fit.
 Flashlight: Used to light up areas that you cannot see well.
 Wire stripper: A wire stripper is used to remove the insulation
from wire so that it can be twisted to other wires or crimped to
connectors to make a cable.
 Crimper: Used to attach connectors to wires.
  Punch-down tool: Used to terminate wire into termination
blocks. Some cable connectors must be connected to cables
using a punch down tool.

3. Cleaning tools

Having the appropriate cleaning tools is essential when maintaining

and repairing computers. Using the appropriate cleaning tools helps
ensure that computer components are not damaged during
cleaning. Cleaning tools include the following:

 Soft cloth: Used to clean different computer components

without scratching or leaving debris
 Compressed air: Used to blow away dust and debris from
different computer parts without touching the components
 Cable ties: Used to bundle cables neatly inside and outside of
a computer
 Parts organizer: Used to hold screws, jumpers, fasteners, and
other small parts and prevents them from getting mixed
together.
Safety Precautions.
1. Fully shut down and unplug the computer before you make any
attempts to disassemble the tower.

2. Take off any metal objects on your arms or fingers such as

bracelets, rings or watches. Even if your unit is unplugged, there may
still be some remaining electric charge.

3. Make sure your hands are completely dry to avoid damaging any
mechanical parts as well as to avoid electrocution.

4. Work in a cool area to avoid perspiration for the same reason as

seen in the previous number.

5. Before touching any part within the tower, put your hands against
another metal surface (such as the computer casing) to remove
static charge, which may damage sensitive devices.

6. Prepare a place to keep any screws you may remove. A

container or piece of paper with labels for each part (casing,
motherboard, CD drive, etc.) is ideal to avoid confusion between
the similar-looking screws.

7. Handle all parts with care. Place each piece you remove carefully
down onto a stable surface.

8. If a component does not come out easily, do not forcefully

remove it. Instead, check that you are removing it correctly and that
no wires or other parts are in the way.

9. be careful when holding the motherboard, it’s underside actually

quite pointy and able to hurt you.

10. Never attempt to remove the power source, a box attached to

the side or bottom of the unit to which all cables are connected.
Regular Maintenance & Diagnostic Check
 To keep the computer hardware and software application in
good condition, you should always handle it properly and have
a regular maintenance schedule. Keep your computer clean
by wiping it with a clean cloth and keep it in a well ventilated
area to avoid moisture. Always properly shut down the
computer after using it.

Disk cleanup
 Windows XP offers a variety of utilities to keep your computer in
shape. Two of the utilities to use are the Disk Cleanup and the
Disk Defragmenter. These utilities are found in the Accessories
programs menu. Click on the Start button, All Programs, select
Accessories to display a drop down menu, and then select
System Tools menu. There you will see the Disk Cleanup and the
Disk Defragmenter. Click on the Disk Cleanup and then a pop
up menu will ask you which drive to clean. Some computers
may have more than one drive so choose a drive which is
normally labeled C or D drive. You will be shown files to delete.
Click OK to proceed. You will be asked to performs the action,
click Yes to continue. Disk Cleanup will clean your computer
memory and storage to give back valuable storage space.
Disk defragmenter
 Another utility that is important in helping the hard disk
recognize itself and ensuring efficient operation is the Disk
Defragmenter. It has the same location as the disk cleanup
which is found under Accessories and System Tools. Simply
choose which drive to defragment and the highlighted drive
will process. The function of the Disk Defragmenter is just like
rearranging the files of your filing cabinet so that you will be
able to find and access files easily and efficiently. Well-
arranged files will make locating and getting them a lot easier
and faster. The same is true for computer; you command it to
do the same. Disk Defragmenter may be scheduled once a
week or once a month so that whatever clutter the computer
has will be recognized, resulting to fast loading of programs
and data.

Safely remove hardware

 You would find icons for volume control, hardware
management, printer setting, and other present functionality of
the computer in the notification area. Icons found here vary
from one computer to another. The advent use of the flash
drives and external memory has made the function to safely
remove hardware indispensable. This function allows you to
stop and disconnect the storage device and remove or
detach it from the computer safely. This process is performed to
avoid data loss to transferred files or damage to the device.
This icon is present only if you have an external device such as
flash drives or external hard drive and other devices connect to
the computer.
Backup files to protect data
 Backup refers to the duplication and storing data in another
storage location other than the primary storage. The primary
storage is usually the hard disk on your desktop or laptop
computer. The purpose of back is to restore data in the event
of data loss. Data loss occurs due to accidental data deletion,
software corruption, hardware failure, virus attack, and many
other causes. Backup files may be stored in storage media such
as external hard disk, flash drives, memory cards, CDs or DVDs,
and online storage.

Update the anti-virus

 Anti-virus will keep your programs safe from the viruses. This is a
preventive maintenance measure to protect your computer
from viruses.

Uninstall unused programs to maximize space

 Use the uninstall in the Control Panel by choosing Add/Remove
Programs. You must also delete any temporary files.

Lock the computer with password

 To avoid other persons from using your computer, use a
password that you can easily remember. You can use a
combination of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and
special character.

Check the loading time of operating system

 On this stage when you notice that the loading time is longer
than usual, check your hard drive for errors it most likely causing
the problem.
Check the POST
 POST means Power on Self-Test. This is the first thing to appear
when opening your computer. This boots up your computer,
checking all the status of the hardware connected. If the is a
problem with the hardware, it will not proceed to the installed
operating system.

Check the DXDIAG (DIRECTX DIAGNOSTIC TOOL)

 In DirectX diagnostic tool you can find the detailed information
about DirectX components and drivers installed in your system.
You can check which is causing the problem. There are 4tabs,
system, display, sound, and input.

If you know where the problem is select the tab where it is

located,
• You can access DXDIAG by searching for it in the start menu, just
type DXDIAG after you have accessed the start menu

•Also by (Windows icon Keyboard) + R to access the run command

then type DXDIAG in the box.

CHECK HARDWARE STATUS

• You can check newly installed hardware in your computer by
going to device manager from there; you can check the status of
the hardware connected.

•To access Device manager go to control panel, hardware and

sound, under devices and printer, press device manager

• You can also find it by searching it in the start menu. Open start
menu and type device manager
Check performance status
•checking the current performance status of the computer is okay
or not. You can check it by opening the task manager in your
computer. Right click the task bar and select task manager.

•Check your ram and CPU consumption the easy way to look into
this is in the task manager in your computer right clicks the task bar
and selects task manager.

• Check your ram and CPU ager select the process tab from there
you can observe what program in use

•Try to check the heat levels of computer. Overheating can cause

the computer or a hardware to shut down or cause a permanent
damage make sure your pc has a proper cooling system.

Listen for any suspicious noise inside the computer

Modern computers usually make no noise when they are running
except the fan which keeps the pc cool any sound that is troubling
can be a problem to the computer.

Check for malware virus by scanning

• Schedule your virus and malware scan for a clean computer.
These viruses can destroy your computer quickly and affect your
personal files.

Check for updates

 always keep your computer to the last version
 make sure you are connected to the internet go to the start
menu and types windows update and click it then click check
for updates wait for it to scan new updates and confirm the
updates
Make a regular schedule for maintenance.
You should have a regular maintenance to keep your computer in
good condition and your data safe.

Daily - Do a backup of your photos documents notes music videos

etc.

 Weekly - Scan your computer for any viruses to prevent it

damage
 Monthly- Have a checkup of your system. Eventually your hand
drives piles up unnecessary files and slowly will become a
problem for your computer you can scan your hand drive for
errors by going to the my computer menu click the main hard
drive and click properties go to tools tab and select check
under error checking.

Under the tools tab is the optimize and defragment drive click
the optimize select the main hard drive and click optimize use
your computer at a minimum To finish the fragment faster.

Delete old programs temporary files caches etc. in the disk

clean up go to start menu and type disk clean select your main
hard drives and click ok and clean up the system against select
the main hard drives select ok check all the boxes needed to
be erase then press ok

Check for windows update these updates are important for the
computer also update your program (Microsoft world google
chrome games etc.)

 EVERY 2-3. - Backup all the important files Months. Careful

cleans the inside part of your computer to prevent damage to
the hardware always follows safety procedure use the tool
required for cleaning and use ESD tools to prevent damaging
the components
Chapter 2
TROUBLESHOOT
SYSTEMS AND
NETWORKS
Troubleshoot Computer systems and Networks

Objective:
 Understand the process of troubleshooting computer systems
and components.

Troubleshoot Computer systems and Networks

These are some common computer system errors from the
moment your start the computer to the welcome page of the
operating system. Some of the problems are listed below:

Problem with power supply

When the hard disk or fan is not functioning, it might be cause
by defective overloaded power supply.

 Check if power supply is connected to the power source

 Smell or listen at a safe distance if there is any problem
 Replace unit with a 300 watt or higher wattage

Problem with startup

 Check if all cables are connected properly
 Check if the power cable is connected
 Look for loose cables or hardware

Problem with monitor/display

When the computer is turned on and there is no display on the
monitor, the problem can be on the monitor or power cables.

 Check if the connection of the cable from the monitor to the

computer is good.
 Check if the power source is connected properly.
 Check if it is in sleep mode by moving the mouse or by the
pressing the enter key
  Check the brightness level by turning the brightness button on the
monitor

Problems with Internet Connection

If there is no internet connection or the signal is intermittent, the
problem may have come from your router, modem, telephone line,
ISP, or PC.

 Call your internet service provider (ISP) for confirmation if they

have already activated the internet connection.
 Check your landline if there is a dual tone. If there is none,
report it to your ISP.
 If the signal is intermittent, check your landline phone if it makes
any static noise. If the problem persists, call your ISP to have it
repaired.
 Check that all the cables are connected properly. From
landline to modem, modem to router, and router to computers.
 In the computer there is an icon that indicates whether the
computer is connected or disconnected wirelessly (Wi-Fi) or
locally (Ethernet). If there is an X on that icon, it means there is
a problem with the hardware or the computer is not
connected properly.
 In wireless mode, if you see the icon, it means that the Wi-Fi
receiver is working. But if it is not connected to the router, press
the icon, find the router, and connect it. Type the password if
required.
Problem with printer
Modern printers now have the capacity to identify if there is no
paper or ink, or any problems. All other problems with the printer
may be solved by checking the following:

 If the printer has no power, check if the power cable is

connected properly to the printer and the power
source.
 If the computer cannot locate the printer, the cable
connecting the computer and printer may not be
plugged properly.
 If the printer is shown under device manager but it
cannot be recognized, install the driver for the printer.
Usually, the driver comes with the printer. If you don't
have the driver or installer, you may find one on the
internet.
 Print a test page.
 Reinstall the printer software

Problem with RAM

You will immediately notice if the RAM is not working. Once you
open the computer, it will warn you wit beeps indicating that there is
no RAM installed and it does not proceed with the boot process. The
best things to do are as follows:

 Turn off the computer and follow the steps before the
opening the computer for diagnosis and repair.
 Check the RAM slot if a RAM is installed or the RAM is
connected properly.
 If the problem with the RAM still continues, try to
replace it with a new RAM.
Problem with hard drive
The hard drive is not working if it does not load the installed
operating system. The first thing to do is to check the BIOS if it is
recognized or detected by the computer.

 Open BIOS by pressing F2 quickly once you open the

computer. Find the hard drive information. if the hard
drive information is inexistent, it means it is not
connected or it is broken.
 Open the computer case and check the SATA and
power cables if they are connected properly.
 Listen to the hard drive. If it is making loud and
suspicious noises and the results shown in the monitor
are corrupted, you can replace the hard drive.

The computer suddenly hangs

Sometimes the computer just hangs and does not respond to the
mouse or keyboard actions one of the things you can do is to hold
down the ctrl key and the alt key at the same time and then press
the delete key A dialog box will appear and see if there is a
message like "Microsoft excel not responding" you can select End
task from the choices to shut down the particular application.
The computer suddenly restarts or show blue screen of
death (BSOD)
When the computer encounters an error it may not respond to any
action it freezes or it restart automatically. The usual cause for the
freeze or auto restart problem is either a virus program overload,
hardware malfunction, or too much heat is to check, do the
following:

•To do a force shut down, press the power button until the computer
then off this option is not recommended for shutting down a
computer, only for emergency purpose.

•Use system restore to roll back from where the pc was at it best if
this solution works, you will know it is likely a software problem

•check the hardware in the computer some parts inside the

computer is maybe loose. Check if the CPU fan is working and the
hard drives as well as the video card cables are connected
properly. Try to look for something that is unusual inside the
computer.

•scan using any anti-virus and anti-malware programs to search for

problems.

•You can identify the problem by restarting the pc and switching it

to safe mode. This mode only loads the necessary drivers so you can
diagnose your pc without the software or hardware problems
getting in the way.

•And the final option is wiping out the whole system by formatting it
and reinstalling windows if problem still exist after this, the. There is
something wrong with one of the hardware.
Problem with sound
Sound is one of the essential devices needed to produce and
transmit audio to the user, from the beep of the computer when you
turn it on, to playing of music in your computer.

To determine any problems with the sound do the following:

• check if the speaker is working try plugging it in to a smart phone

and test it also check the speaker cord is plugged in and the power
turned on.

•The problem can also be caused by not plugging properly the

3.5mm jack it might also be accidentally plugged to the microphone
in or line in slot.

•check if it plugged in the line out slot which is usually the color
green slot.

•Adjust the volume using the icon on the task bar that can be seen
on the monitor, ensuring that the mute icon is not selected.

Problem with keyboard

Keyboard is an important tool to input data i to the computer a
good keyboard will help you to do your work efficiently to check if
the keyboard id functioning. Follow these steps:

•check if the keyboard is connected properly to USB or PS/2.

•look at the keyboard locate the Num lock key and see if there is a
light if there is no light it is likely that the keyboard is defective.

•try using another keyboard if the Num lock key of the new
keyboard has still no light try plugging it to another USB slot
•if a function key a letter key or a number key on the keyboard is not
working properly then the keyboard is defective, therefore you have
to replace it with new one.

Problem with mouse

Mouse is a navigation tool that is important in any computer. It will
slow down you work if the mouse is not good in condition most
commonly used computer today is optical or laser type Follow these
steps if you find tour mouse not working:

• check if the mouse is connected properly to USB or PS/w port.

•while the computer is turned on , check if there is a light under the
mouse if there is none , the mouse may not be plugged in or the
mouse is defective.

•on the desktop for the mouse pointer, once you have located it, try
moving the mouse. When it responds to the movement it is working.

• if the mouse pointer is moving too fast, you can adjust it in mouse
settings. Go to control panel and type in the search bar mouse then,
select mouse go to the pointer options tab and adjust it to your
desired pointer speed.

•you can also adjust the scroll speed under the wheel tab.
Problem with programs
Program installed in computer are helpful in doing project, editing
photos, listening to music, playing games, watching movies, and
many more. Essential programs such as adobe Photoshop, Google
Chrome, Microsoft PowerPoint, iTunes, etc., may not work or
suddenly crash ending up doing the work all over again. In order to
prevent these problems, do the following:

 Check the minimum system requirements of the program. It is

important to at least reach the minimum requirement in order for the
program to run. Below this requirement can create problems in the
use of the program.
 If you have complied with the minimum system requirement but still
the program won't load, try restarting the computer. Also try
uninstalling and re installing the program. Doing these steps may fix
the problem.
 You can also encounter inadequate space in the hard drive for the
program. The solution is to remove any unnecessary files and
program so the new program can be accommodated.
 When programs frequently crash, there are a number of possible
reasons behind it. It can be overheating of PC, insufficient RAM, virus
corrupted Windows files, and others. If the computer is overheating,
try cleaning the computer. If there is insufficient RAM memory, you
can upgrade it. Scan again to detect any virus that may have
passed your security check.
 You can repair Windows files by using COMMAND PROMPT. Go to
START menu and type cmd. Right click cmd and run as an
administrator. Then, lastly sfc/scan now and press Enter.
 Lastly, there are many solutions when dealing with programs.
Sometimes, it just takes extensive research, analysis, common sense,
and some trial and error to fix the problem.
Chapter 3
UPGRADING
COMPUTER
COMPONENTS
Upgrading Computer Components

Objective:

 Understand the process of upgrading computer

components.

Upgrading Preparation
Everyone wants to have a powerful, faster, updated, and energy-
efficient computer that can keep up with the latest programs.
Upgrading computer parts is almost like assembling computer but
you need to remove the existing parts and replace them with new
ones.

Before you starts, make sure you do the following safety

guidelines:
 Disconnect the main power supply and unplug all peripherals
from the computer including network connection
 Handle all parts with care
 Plan and make a list of your objectives
 Prepare all the tools needed for the job
 Analyze what parts to replace
 Research all items for compatibility issues
 Read the manufacture’s brochure to determine the limit of the
warranty or any security seal

Before you start to install components that you will upgrade, you
have to know first how to open the computer case. In this example,
a mini table tower case with a height of 12 to 8 inches will used.
Opening the computer case:
1) At the back part of the case, look for screws locking both side
of the case
2) Remove the screws, usually only one side needs to be opened
and its screws can be easily removed
3) Carefully slide the cover backwards or lift the case. Do not
pullout the case q since the fan of the case is still connected to
the power supply
4) Unplug the power supply connecting to the fan cover
5) Upgrading Computer Components

There are many advantages of upgrading the computer

components.
 To increase the speed and efficiency of the computer
 To prevent crashes and breakdown
 To increase storage capacity
 To have a faster run and response time

Upgrading the RAM

Upgrading the RAM helps the computer perform multitasking better.
For example, when you have RAM-hogging programs opened at the
same time, such as Google Chrome, Adobe Photoshop, and
Microsoft Word, a higher memory increases the computers speed,
efficiency, and response. It also lessens the burden of the computer.

To upgrade the RAM, you will need the following;

 RAM that is compatible to your motherboard

 Philips screwdriver fir for opening the computer case
 anti-static wrist strap (if available)
 Anti-static mat (if available) before starting, the computer
should be turned off and all cables are disconnected.
LOCATING RAM SLOT
1) Locate the ram slots on the motherboard. Below is an
image of a RAM slot. This is a DIMM type of RAM. Some
RAM slot my differ depending on the type of
motherboard.
2) RAM slot has an injector clips and notch to align the RAM
properly.
3) Push down each side of the injector clips to insert RAM.

REMOVING RAM AND INSTALLING THE NEW RAM

1) If there is still one slot available, there is no need to remove the
old RAM, just proceed with the new RAM installation.
2) If you plan to remove old one, simply press down both of
injector clips then carefully remove the RAM, As much as
possible, avoid touching the gold colored pins, hold them at
the edges

RAM INSTALLATION
1) Now the injector clips are in the down position, align the
notches, then carefully but firmly press down the RAM until
you a hear click. Make sure the injector clips are in vertical
position and the RAM fully inserted.
2) put the computer case back and turn on the computer
CHECKING THE RAM
1) Once you turn on the computer basis, BIOS should recognize
the total RAM of the PC.
2) If you overlocked the BIOD, you can check it in the control
panel.
3) Then click system and security.
4) Under system, click VIEW AMOUNT OR RAM AND PROCESSOR
SPEED
5) Look for installed memory (RAM) under the system category
6) If the new installed RAM cannot be detected, repeat the step
again, if problem persists check the step in troubleshooting the
computer.

CHECKING THE RAM

1. Once you turn on the computer basis, BIOS should recognize the
total RAM of the PC.

2. If you overlocked the BIOD, you can check it in the control panel.

3 then click system and security.

4. Under system, click VIEW AMOUNT OR RAM AND PROCESSOR

SPEED

5. Look for installed memory (RAM) under the system category

6. If the new installed RAM cannot be detected, repeat the step

again, if problem persists check the step in troubleshooting the
computer.

Upgrading the processor (CPU)

Upgrading the CPU helps the computer perform and run faster.
Make sure that the CPU is compatible with the existing motherboard.
REMOVING THE PROCESSOR
1. Open computer casing to access the internal parts of the
computer.

2. Locate where the processor is installed. You can find it under the
CPU fan.

3. Remove the CPU fan power cord the motherboard

4. In the CPU fan, there are four pins holding the fan to the
motherboard. Twist all pins in the direction of the arrow then gently
remove the fan.

5. Now that the fan is out of the way, you can finally remove the
processor. First things are press down the latch and move it away
from the lock then lift up the cover. Finally, remove the processor
from the slot.

INSTALLING NEW PROCESSOR AND FAN

1. Place the processor on its respective position. The gold arrow on
the processor located on the lower right of it, should be pointing to
the lower left. Hold the processor by the side. Do not force the
processor downwards. If it does not fit remove it snd place again.

2. Close the CPU cover and press down the latch to lock it.

3. Place the new CPU fan over the processor and align the pins to
the holes. Then press down all four pins to look.

4. Finally, plug in the power cord in the labeled CPU_FAN slot in the
motherboard
Upgrading the Graphical/Video Card
Upgrading Graphical/Video card improves the quality and
performance of the graphics. It takes the load off the CPU and
memory to process images. Some PCI slots may vary, depending on
the year and model of the motherboard and graphic card. Make
sure that the Graphical/Video card is compatible with the existing
motherboard.

Video cards vary in size. Determine the size of your video card and
the space you have in your computer case. Determine also the
compatibility between motherboard and video card. Also, some
video card requires q higher wattage power supply.

Removing the old video card

1. Unscrew the video card lock from the expansion slot.
2. Remove the expansion slot lock by using a Philips
screwdriver.
3. In this PCIe x16 slot, there is a Q-slot clip which makes
removing easier, just press the clip lightly and remove the
video card.
4. Install the new video card into the PCIe slot. Firmly and
carefully, press down the new video card.
5. Put back the expansion slot lock for a secure video card.
First, screw the expansion slot plate cover. Then, screw in
place the video card.
6. After installing the video card, plug in the monitor cable
(either VGA, DVI, or HDMI).
7. Turn on the computer to check and see if the new video
card works.
8. If the screen is still black after turning on the computer,
check if you have connected the cables (VGA, HDMI,
and DVI). Also check the power supply of the monitor.
Upgrading the Hard Drive / IDE and SATA Drives
Thing to prepare:

1. SATA hard drive or your preferred hard compatible to your system.

2. Philips screw driver

3. Anti-static wrist-strap and mat

4. Screw and cables which usually come with the hard drive.

Removing the old hard drive

1. Locate where the hard drive is installed, unplug cables
connecting the hard drive.

2. Remove the screw using Philips screw driver.

3. Carefully pull the hard drive from the day.

Installing the new hard drive

1. Locate the hard drive bay and put the new hard drive on your
preferred slot.

2. Screw in place the hard drive.

3. Plug in the SATA cable and power cable.

4. Close the computer case and you are done.

5. This is how the new hard drive connection should look like.

6. If the hard drive does not load, check if the cables are connected
properly.

7. Try to listen to suspicious noise from the hard drive. If it produces

disturbing noise, replace it immediately
UPGRADING THE POWER SUPPLY
Better power supply for the computer will make it last longer and
provide quieter performance. Higher wattage power supply can
prevent damage to the components inside the computer because
they tend to the overheat if not provide sufficient power. Choose
reliable and high-power supplies.

Before installing the new power supply, research and check the
required wattage of your computer system. in this example, 600
wattage of power is used.

LOCATING THE POWER SUPPLY

1. Defending on the brand of power supply and

computer case, the appearance and location of
the power supply my differ. In the example below, it
is a genetic power supply and mini tower case;
power supply is located on top of the back panel of
the CPU case.

EMOVING THE POWER SUPPLY

1. First, remove all power cable connection from the
motherboard, hard drive, CD Drive, video card, etc.
2. Unscrew all the fastens the power supply.
3. Slide the power supply backwards as the arrow indicates.
INSTALLING NEW POWER SUPPLY UNIT

1. Slide the new power back in, following the direction of the arrow.
2. Fasten the power supply into its proper place

3. Attach all power cables to the assigned slot.

4. Before plugging in the power supply, make sure what power outlet
required. in the example, it is needed to be plugged in an outlet of
230 volts, after you have check, you can now power up the
computer

5. If the computer does not boot up, check the power cord from the
outlet to the power supply if connected properly. Check your
extension if it is turned on. Check all the power cables if connected
properly to the motherboard and other parts of the computer.
Check if the power supply fan is spinning, if not, the power supply is
not working.