Lab Manual to Accompany A+ Guide to Managing
Contents
1. 12 CHAPTER 1 Introducing Hardware CHALLENGE ACTIVITY If your instructor has prepared a display of four or more assorted computer parts fill in the following chart Identify the part Describe how you determined your answer REVIEW QUESTIONS 1 Describe how you decided which expansion card was the video card 2 Describe how you identified the type of CPU you have 3 Does your system have much room for adding new components What types of expan sion bus slots are available for adding new cards 4 Is there space for upgrading the RAM If there isn t what could you do to still upgrade 5 Where specifically would you go on the Internet to download a PDF of the mother board or system manual What information would be required LAB 1 3 USE SOFTWARE TO EXAMINE A COMPUTER PART 1 OBJECTIVES The goal of this lab is to use Sandra Lite to examine your system After completing this lab you will be able to 4 Download a file from the Internet 4 Install Sandra Lite 4 Use Sandra Lite to examine your system Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part Lab 1 3 Use Software to Examine a Computer Part 1 13 MATERIALS REQUIRED This lab requires the following 4 Windows Vista XP operating system 4 Internet access A If necessary software such as WinZip to uncompress a downloaded file LAB PREPARATION Before the lab begins2. Notification Area Toolbars Taskbar appearance P 7 Windows Explorer T S EJ Lock the taskbar Auto hide the taskbar lt Keep the taskbar on top of other windows Group similar taskbar buttons Show Quick Launch Show window previews thumbnails sS How do I customize the taskbar ac Lm Figure 1 4 Use the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog box to control how the taskbar appears and functions Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning 9 Click the Start Menu tab in the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog box Verify that the Start menu option button is selected as shown in Figure 1 5 Click OK to apply the settings and close the dialog box Close the Appearance and Personalization window From the Start menu open the Control Panel and click the System and Maintenance Performance and Maintenance in XP category The System and Maintenance window opens In the System and Maintenance window click the System icon to open the System Properties dialog box Record the follow ing information 1 Which OS is installed and what is the version number 2 Have any service packs been installed 3 To whom is the system registered 4 What kind of CPU type and speed is installed in your system Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part CHAPTER 1
3. the instructor or lab assistant needs to do the following 4 Verify that Internet access is available 4 For labs that don t have Internet access download these files to a file server flash drive CD R or other media available to students in the lab Sandra Lite executable file downloaded from www sisoftware net f Windows cannot uncompress the file an uncompress utility such as WinZip can be downloaded from www winzip com ACTIVITY BACKGROUND Good PC support people are always good investigators In previous labs you learned how to gather information about your computer through the operating system and by a physical inspection In this lab you will download a diagnostic program from the Internet These programs can be used to learn about your system establish a benchmark of its speed and other characteristics and even diagnose some common problems If you have a classroom printer available you ll print a report from the downloaded software about the hardware and software on your computer ESTIMATED COMPLETION TIME 45 Minutes Activity NEE If the SiSoftware Web site is unavailable you can use a search engine to locate the program 1 Open your browser and go to www sisoftware net 2 Click the link called Download amp Buy You will be downloading a free evaluation copy of Sandra Lite 3 Follow one of the links pointing to a location for downloading Sandra Lite Evaluation 4 Follow the instructions on the s
4. you ll need to consult the user manual or download a PDF of the manual from the manufacturer s Web site for more detailed instructions 3 For a desktop or tower case locate and remove the screws on the back of the case Be careful not to unscrew any screws besides the ones attaching the cover The other screws are probably holding the power supply in place 4 After you remove the cover screws slide the cover back to remove it from the case as shown in Figure 1 7 Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part 10 CHAPTER 1 Introducing Hardware Figure 1 7 Slide a side panel to the rear and then Lift it off the case Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning 5 To remove the cover from a tower PC with no visible case screws power down the PC and unplug it from its power outlet Next unplug the monitor and any other device with an external power source from the power outlet 6 On some cases you must pop the front panel off the case before removing the side pan els Look for a lever on the bottom of the panel and hinges at the top Squeeze the lever to release the front panel and lift it off the case see Figure 1 8 Then remove any screws holding the side panel in place as shown in Figure 1 9 and slide the side panel to the front and then off the case a ALICEN Some case panels don t use screws at all these side panels usually hav
5. How many CD or DVD drives does your system have 3 Describe the shape or type of the connection your mouse uses 4 How many USB ports are in the back of your system How many are in the front 5 How many internal hard drives does your system have Explain how you got your answer Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part Lab 1 1 Gather and Record System Information 3 Most versions of Windows allow users to customize the display of information to suit their tastes Windows XP and Vista can mimic the way previous versions of Windows presented menus and settings for users who are more comfortable with these presentations Complete the following steps to restore Windows defaults to your system 1 Boot your system and log on if necessary Click Start and then click Control Panel to open the Control Panel window 2 If Classic view has been enabled select Control Panel Home in Vista or click Switch to Category View in XP Figure 1 1 shows the Control Panel in Category view for Vista gt Control Panel Control Panel Home User Accounts Add or remove user accounts System and Maintenance Get started with Windows Back up your computer Classic View Security Appearance and Check for updates Check this computer s security status e Allow a program through Windows Firewall Network and Internet View network status and tasks Set
6. Introducing Hardware Taskbar and Start Menu Pro Taskbar Start Menu Notification Area Toolbars Start menu Customize This menu style gives you easy access to your Folders Favorite programs and search Classic Start menu Customize This menu style gives you the look and Functionality of previous versions of Windows Privacy V Store and display a list of recently opened Files t m Vi FJ Store and display a list of recently opened programs How do I change the way the Start menu looks Figure 1 5 The Start Menu tab of the Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog box Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning 5 How much RAM is installed in your system 6 Vista provides a rating called a Windows Experience Index to help you rate and improve your system s performance Click Windows Experience Index to gather further details What is your computer s base score 7 Close the System Properties dialog box and the Performance and Maintenance window At this point click Start click Computer My Computer in XP and locate the following information 1 How many hard disk drives are listed and which drive letters are assigned to them 2 How many devices with removable storage are listed and which drive letters are assigned to them 3 How many network drives are listed and what are their names 4 Move the mouse pointer over the icons to determine information about t
7. a program Restore Defaults How do change folder options mm Figure 1 2 Use the Folder Options dialog box to restore Windows defaults to a folder Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning Folder views You can apply the view such as Details or Icons that you are using for this folder to all folders of this type Apply to Folders Reset Folders Advanced settings Files and Folders E Always show icons never thumbnails Always show menus Display file icon on thumbnails Display file size information in folder tips Display simple folder view in Navigation pane Display the full path in the title bar Classic folders only Hidden files and folders amp Do not show hidden files and folders Show hidden files and folders Hide extensions for known file types Hide protected operating system files Recommended Figure 1 3 The View tab of the Folder Options dialog box Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part Lab 1 1 Gather and Record System Information 5 8 On the Taskbar tab verify that all check boxes in the Taskbar appearance section are selected except for Auto hide the taskbar and Show Quick Launch as shown in Figure 1 4 Click Apply if any changes were made r 5 a Taskbar and Start Menu Properties LX Taskbar Start Menu
8. downloaded file If an Open File Security Warning dialog box appears click Run In the installation wizard accept the EULA and click Install If the installation prompts you to check for new definitions click No The Belarc Advisor installation automatically takes a snapshot of your computer and then creates an item in your Start menu and adds an icon to your desktop 2 When you finish the installation Belarc Advisor uses your default Web browser to show the results of the snapshot If you re using Internet Explorer you should see a screen similar to the one in Figure 1 11 Answer the following questions to learn what Belarc Advisor is telling you about your system 1 What is the name of the manufacturer and model of the motherboard installed on your system 2 What is the version of Windows you re using 3 What is the product key for Windows 4 What is the speed and model of the processor for the system 5 Are there any security updates that need to be applied Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part CHAPTER 1 Introducing Hardware I Belarc Advisor Current Profile Microsoft Internet Explorer fle LX Yew Favortes Jods ep x 2 p pj seh Protes 2 C Program Flesibelarc Advisor Systemiimpl oy hos Belarc Advisor PC Audirs in Your Web Browser out Bela System dmt md Security amp t Status 2 50 of 10 Gs
9. stem on patent Probeta SA orien Computer Profile Summary Computer Mems Joy in GOLDEN Profile Date Friday November 11 2005 55204 PM Advisor Version TH Tn page Links Windows Logon Jess Andrews Your Prec detalle Click here for Belarc Metfoees yeftriarn Operating System Manan Widows XP Professional Service Pack 2 build 2600 Processor 2 40 peabertz Intel Pentium 4 8 kilobyte primary memory cache 512 kilobyte secondary memory cache Drives 80 02 Oigibytes Usable Hard Drive Capacity 52 71 Gigabytes Hard Drie Free Space SAMSUNG CD R RW SW 252B CD ROM dria 3 5 format mmovwsble medn Floppy dma System Management products for large and small companies System Model To Be Filled By O EM To Be Filled By OE M To Be Filled By OEM System Serial Number To Be Filled By OE M Main Circuit Board Bod ASUSTek Computer Inc PAPBOD Rev 1 x Bus Clock 200 megahertz BIOS American Megutrende Ine 1005 001 04220003 Memory Modules 4 512 Megabytes Installed Memory Slot DIMMO has 256 MB serial number Ser wmi Slot DIMMI ws Empty Slot DIMMI hus 256 MB Slot DUMM is Empty 51330013AS Hand drive 10 02 OB detve 0 Local Drive Volumes NTFS oa dri 0 90268 5271 OB fi Network Drives Mone detected Users mouse over user name Sor detads Printers last logon Adobe PDF Converter on My Docunente paf TLA L005 50926 PM J Adobe PDF Converter on WILLIPrinter3 Figure 1 11 Belarc Advisor uses your browser to dis
10. up file sharing Hardware and Sound Play CDs or other media automatically Printer Personalization Change desktop background Customize colors Adjust screen resolution Clock Language and Region Change keyboards or other input methods Ease of Access Let Windows suggest settings Optimize visual display Mouse Additional Options Programs Uninstall a program Change startup programs Mobile PC Lid Change battery settings _ Change battery settings Adjust commonly used mobility Uninstall a program settings Figure 1 1 Windows Vista Control Panel in Category view Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning 3 With Category view enabled click the Appearance and Personalization Appearance and Themes in XP category The Appearance and Personalization window opens 4 In the Appearance and Personalization window click Folder Options in the Control Panel icons list to open the Folder Options dialog box 5 On the General tab of the Folder Options dialog box click the Restore Defaults button see Figure 1 2 and then click Apply 6 Click the View tab in the Folder Options dialog box see Figure 1 3 Click the Restore Defaults button and then click OK to apply the settings and close the dialog box 7 In the Appearance and Personalization window click the Taskbar and Start Menu icon The Taskbar and Start Menu Properties dialog box opens Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be cop
11. Media Center Batup CO Request a Catalog 12MB 6221 DORZ SORAM Dual Channel 2 200MB Sales Chat Pr dud Local 8008 Serial ATA 11000 7200 pm hard d s vu BMB Accessory Locator Memory Locator Manitor mat selected ink Locator Services Ons Mierssetb Win dene XP Media Co sues cha Gateway recommends Microsoft Windows XP Professional Gateway DX300 Make the Joneses keep up with you The DX300 Series gives you the power to create a multimedia center in your own home or office This crowd pleaser comes with all the premium features you deserve and is backed by the reliability of BTX Technology to hoop your system cool and quiet Compare ait 0900 Senes GEL Gateway DX300X Mtei Pentium 4 Procesor 830 mith WT Technelegy 0 000 000b FSP IMP L2 ache Bonon 2006 Update Rollup 2 m XP Media Contes Bacup CD ST2MB 5290s DOR SORAM Deal Channel 2 260048 moduien 10000 Sedat ATA 1100 7300em hant dive ww GMD come VITOS 17 Color Monitor 16 07 viemabla De COW Drive M0 Dosble Layes Mul Format DVD Waiter Trade In amp Recycling UVOMRaROWIC D BUR Brand Showcases Indegrated inteib Oraphics Media Aceeietater QAO wat gt tate grated Into Oraphics Media Accelerator OO with Rebatet Deais up te 224MD shared momar 9 te 224MD shared memory Bind media cand wader Bint media cand renter 2 pace sp bh ssiution 2 piece seater salute 849 99 699 99 599 99 af
12. Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part 16 CHAPTER 1 Introducing Hardware REVIEW QUESTIONS 1 From your printed report what type of memory module s are installed in your system 2 From your printed report what is the maximum front side bus FSB speed of your mainboard 3 Use the Analysis and Advice feature in the Tools section to generate a report In your opinion what is the most important advice contained in this report Why 4 How might Sandra be used when upgrading your computer LAB 1 4 USE SOFTWARE TO EXAMINE A COMPUTER PART 2 OBJECTIVES The goal of this lab is to use Belarc Advisor to examine your system After completing this lab you will be able to Download a file from the Internet Install Belarc Advisor Use Belarc Advisor to examine your system MATERIALS REQUIRED This lab requires the following Windows Vista XP operating system Internet access LAB PREPARATION Before the lab begins the instructor or lab assistant needs to do the following Verify that Internet access is available For labs that don t have Internet access download Belarc Advisor Advisor exe from www belarc com and make the file available to students in the lab ACTIVITY BACKGROUND Good PC support people know that there s always more than one way to do something In Lab 1 3 you learned to use Sandra to investigate your system In this lab you use another shareware utility Belarc Adv
13. Software Sandra fle Modules View Touts telp mo l eo N Wizard Modules hw Errrorment mabined Buren Wed WebLindare Information Modules 3 w Marbowd CPUGBIOS 1 PCIe AGP Vide Modules urea Information Information Iri 1 Cardi tr Information Information v ATAJATAP Data Sources Information Information Printer eed MCI Devices Fax Irfo Information Benchmarking Modules o p PU Arithmetic n whewk Mut Me Testing Modules 9 For Help press F1 Figure 1 10 SiSoftware Sandra main window Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning You can run each utility by double clicking its icon or you can create a composite report of the results of each selection To learn more complete the following 1 Double click the Hardware icon and then double click Computer Overview The Computer Overview utility starts and gathers information about your system before dis playing it in a format similar to Device Manager with devices listed by type According to this utility what kind of video adapter is your system using 2 Click the red X at the bottom of the Computer Overview SiSoftware Sandra window or press Esc to close the Computer Overview utility 3 Next click the Software tab and double click the Operating System icon to start that utility Scroll down and note the information types that are listed According to this util ity which version of Windows are you using 4
14. VITY BACKGROUND When working with a computer system you must be able to identify the hardware compo nents both inside and outside the case Components are not always labeled adequately especially those inside the case This lab helps you learn to recognize these components Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part 8 CHAPTER 1 Introducing Hardware ESTIMATED COMPLETION TIME 30 Minutes Activity Observe the physical characteristics of your system and answer the following questions 1 What size monitor do you have Measure from the upper left corner to the lower right corner the diagonal on the monitor screen Is the measurement what you expected for the size of the monitor 2 How many keys are on your keyboard 3 What other external components does your PC have speakers printer and so forth Describe each component with as much detail as you can 4 Look at the back of your PC and list all cables and cords connected to ports and other connections Fill in the following chart Describe the port or connector to which the cable or cord is connected Purpose of the cable or cord 5 What other ports on the PC are not being used List them Next you ll open the PC case see Figure 1 6 and examine the components inside As you work make sure you do not touch anything inside the case unless you re wearing an antistatic groun
15. What is the path to the Temporary folder on your system Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part Lab 1 3 Use Software to Examine a Computer Part 1 15 5 What is your Windows installation product key 6 Click the red X at the bottom of the Operating System SiSoftware Sandra window or press Esc to close the Operating System utility 7 Next double click the Physical Disks icon in the Hardware section The utility begins to gather information about your drives Do not move the mouse or touch the keyboard while this procedure is in progress How much total space does your main hard drive contain What interface type does it use and what is its cache size 8 Click the red X at the bottom of the Physical Disks SiSoftware Sandra window or press Esc to close the Physical Disks utility 9 Find and double click the Memory Usage icon to start that utility What is the name and location of the page file 10 Close the Memory Usage utility You can also use Sandra Lite to create a composite report of your system To learn more follow these steps 1 From the SiSoftware Sandra interface click the Tools tab and click the Create Report icon 2 Click Next right pointing arrow to begin the creation 3 In the Step 1 of 9 window select Make choices and generate report if necessary in the drop down list and click Next to continue 4 In the Hardwar
16. course you ll be better able to answer this last question based on your own experiences LAB 1 6 PLAN AN IDEAL SYSTEM OBJECTIVES The objective of this lab is to plan and price your own ideal system within a budget After completing this lab you will be able to Describe what you want your system to be able to do Pick components that best meet your goal Stay within a budget MATERIALS REQUIRED This lab requires the following Internet access and or access to a computer publication such as Computer Shopper LAB PREPARATION Before the lab begins the instructor or lab assistant needs to do the following Provide Internet access in the lab or announce that students need to bring computer pub lications such as Computer Shopper to the lab ACTIVITY BACKGROUND In the future you might be in a position to build a system to your specifications from sepa rate components Within a budget of 800 what system would you put together In this lab you determine the answer based on your current knowledge and experience Expect that your opinions will likely change as you continue in this course Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part Lab 1 6 Plan an Ideal System 23 ESTIMATED COMPLETION TIME 30 Minutes Activity 1 On a separate piece of paper make a chart similar to the one used in Lab 1 5 Use it to list the components you would like
17. d in Lab 1 3 Which utility do you think is the most useful and why Which is easier to use LAB 1 5 COMPARE COSTS OF SYSTEMS OBJECTIVES The objective of this lab is to compare a preassembled system with the components that could be assembled to build a comparable system After completing this lab you will be able to Identify the key components of a preassembled system Locate prices for components needed to assemble a comparable system Compare the cost of a preassembled system and a self assembled system MATERIALS REQUIRED This lab requires the following Internet access and or access to a printed computer publication such as Computer Shopper LAB PREPARATION Before the lab begins the instructor or lab assistant needs to do the following Verify that Internet access is available ACTIVITY BACKGROUND In this lab you compare the cost of a brand name system with the cost of a system having similar specifications but assembled from separate components Brand name manufacturers typically build their systems from parts that only they market these parts are called proprietary parts Therefore it s unlikely that you ll be able to find exact matches for brand name components However you can find comparable components For example if a Gateway computer has a 500 GB hard drive installed find another 500 GB hard drive for your list of parts The idea is to find a close match for each major component so that you can compar
18. d strap that s clipped to the case so that any electrical difference between you and the case is dissipated Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part Power in Keyboard port S PDIF out Serial port Four USB ports Sound ports Analog video port S Video port Figure 1 6 Lab 1 2 Identify Computer Parts Common ports and connectors found on the back of a PC Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning To remove the cover from a PC with screws follow these steps Mouse port Parallel port FireWire port Network port Digital video port Two phone line ports for modem 1 Power down the PC and unplug it Next unplug the monitor printer and any other device that has its own external power supply Do not disconnect any cables or cords other than the power supply cord connected to the back of the PC case 2 Case manufacturers use slightly different methods to open the case Many newer cases require that you remove the faceplate on the front of the case first Other cases require removing a side panel first and very old cases require removing the entire sides and top as a single unit first Study your case for the correct approach a DICE In the steps that follow you will find general guidelines for disassembling a PC If any of these steps do not seem to apply to your system
19. design if your budget was only 600 Keep your responses to this lab for later reference As you learn more about PCs in this course you can look back at these responses and see where you might change your mind based on new information you have learned Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part
20. e buttons or tabs to release the cover Y d a Figure 1 8 Some cases require removing the front panel before removing the side panels of a computer case Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part Lab 1 2 Identify Computer Parts 11 Figure 1 9 Screws hold the side panel in place Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning With the cover removed you re ready to look for some components As you complete the following you may wish to refer to the drawings and photos in Chapters 4 through 8 of A Guide to Hardware or consult the Internet for additional information on the specific components in your system 1 Put on your antistatic ground strap and connect the clip to the side of the computer case 2 Identify and describe the following major components List any other components you find inside the case Fill in the following chart Description Include the manufacturer and model name if listed as well as Component its distinguishing characteristics Power supply Motherboard Hard drive s CD DVD ROM drive s CPU RAM Cooling fan not inside the power supply Video card if not onboard Network card if not onboard Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part
21. e section Step 2 of 9 click the Clear All red X over a box button Click to select Mainboard and click Next to continue 5 In the Benchmarks section Step 3 of 9 click the Clear All button Click Memory Bandwidth and click Next to continue 6 In the Software section Step 4 of 9 click the Clear All button and then click Next to continue 7 In the Support section Step 5 of 9 click the Clear All button and click Next to continue 8 In the Comments on report section Step 6 of 9 add any comments if you like and then click Next to continue 9 In the Delivery section Step 7 of 9 click the Print or Fax option in the drop down list and then click Next to continue 10 In the Print or Fax dialog box select your printer and click OK green check mark When Sandra has finished printing your report you can click the Exit button red X to close the wizard and then collect your report from the printer 11 Continue to explore each utility in Sandra and then close it You ll use Sandra again in later chapters so don t uninstall it In this lab you downloaded Sandra from the SiSoftware Web site but many popular utilities are avail able from multiple sources on the Internet To see for yourself follow these steps 1 Attempt to find Sandra at www zdnet com 2 Is the program available through this avenue as well Print the Web page or pages to support your answer Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights
22. e the total cost of a brand name system and a similar system built from parts Use the Internet and available computer related publications as your sources for information Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part 20 CHAPTER 1 Introducing Hardware ESTIMATED COMPLETION TIME 45 Minutes Activity 1 Find an advertisement for a complete preassembled system similar to the one in Figure 1 12 Some manufacturers you might want to check out are Gateway www gate way com Dell www dell com and HP www hp com I Gateway Computers Detailed comparison of DX300 Desktop PC Series Microsoft Internet Explorer De ER Yew Favotes Ico tb Q O uid ws Q D M L AE hito fmm gatewnmy comiproducts gconfigiprodheseries asp vequhenigcveriosech OO em Nay D Jj se View Cart Source Order Status My Accourt Support d Gateway Home amp Home Office C aii 800 369 1409 Computers Enetronkes sPCAccossones Software Notebooks Reatices Media Center Groat Dosis Computers Notebooks Desktops DX100 Series 0X200 Series 0 300 Series FX400 Senes Media Center Gaming Remanufactured PC Accessones Electronics Software Goricos sl Customizable PCs GMeway DX3008 Miei Penbumd 4 Processo 020 vut MT Techinatogy 0 000 900MMz F 9 IMO L2 cache zg Miessseth Wondemer XP Media Canter Edien 2005 Update Retup Tyee XP
23. he drives What is the total amount of free hard drive space on your system Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part Lab 1 2 Identify Computer Parts 7 REVIEW QUESTIONS 1 List two categories available in Control Panel that were not mentioned in the lab 2 Based on the Windows Experience Index what component of your computer would you upgrade first Why 3 What differences if any are there between a list of components derived from a physical inspection versus a list of components derived from My Computer and System Properties LAB 1 2 IDENTIFY COMPUTER PARTS OBJECTIVES The goal of this lab is to examine your computer to identify the parts inside and outside the case After completing this lab you will be able to Identify computer components outside the case Identify computer components inside the case MATERIALS REQUIRED This lab requires the following A computer that can be disassembled A Phillips head screwdriver An antistatic ground bracelet wrist strap Workgroup of 2 to 4 students A display of four or more computer parts to be identified by students LAB PREPARATION Before the lab begins the instructor or lab assistant needs to do the following Provide a computer that can have the cover removed for each student workgroup Gather up four or more computer parts for display in each student workgroup or area of the lab ACTI
24. ied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part Ee e We Control Panel Appearance and Personalization Isoh 1 1 1 A Control Panel Home Personalization System and Maintenance Change desktop background Customize colors Adjust screen resolution Change screen saver Change the theme R Security Network and Internet Exploit Taskbar and Start Menu Customize the Start menu Customize icons on the taskbar Programs Change the picture on the Start menu Mobile PC 7 Hardware and Sound Folder Options Ease of Access Center Accommodate low vision Changi Underline keyboard shortcuts and ad User Accounts Appearance and Personalization Clock Language and Region General View Search Tasks Folder Options Show preview and filters Specify single or double click to opi Use Windows classic folders Show hidden files and folders Ease of Access Additional Options Browse folders Fonts Open each folder in the same window Install or remove a font Open each folder in its own window Classic View Windows Sidebar Properties possides Add gadgets to Sidebar Choose wW Single click to open an item point to select N Underline icon titles consistent with my browser VMware Tools Underline icon titles only when point at them Double click to open an item single click to select D AF m Recent Tasks Change battery settings Uninstall
25. isor to examine your system Follow these directions to find Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part Lab 1 4 Use Software to Examine a Computer Part 2 17 and download this utility that you can use to diagnose PC problems Then you print a report from the downloaded software about the hardware and software on your computer If your lab doesn t have Internet access ask your instructor for the location of files down loaded previously for you to use Write the path to those files here ESTIMATED COMPLETION TIME 30 Minutes Activity Open your browser and go to www belarc com Click the FREE DOWNLOAD link Follow one of the links pointing to a location that offers Belarc Advisor for download Follow the instructions on the site you selected to begin the download process na A W N e When the File Download dialog box opens save the file to your PC desktop You can then disconnect from the Internet At the time that this book was written the down loaded filename was Advisor exe but sometimes Web sites and filenames change What is the name of your downloaded file B NEE If the Belarc Web site is unavailable you can use a search engine to locate the shareware Next follow these steps to install Belarc Advisor on your PC 1 Run the setup program by double clicking the downloaded executable file Advisor exe or the name of your
26. it instant and makin rebates Figure 1 12 Complete preassembled system Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning 2 Study the advertisement and list the following specifications 4 Processor MHz RAM OS HDD capacity Monitor Video card Sound speakers Other drives Bonus items b a b bh b amp b ha Bundled software 4 Total price 3 Find advertisements similar to those in Figure 1 13 Notice that the items are grouped by component type Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part Lab 1 5 Compare Costs of Systems 21 Zh pricewatch amp The Web s first and best price comparison search engine Microsoft Internet Explorer De Edt yew Favontes Tools tip Q AB betp jorns pricewatch com Ee amp My Saved Ads Home U Combos Mother Combos w Memory Motherboard Accessories CPU s amp Burner s amp Burner Peripherals Bar Code dio Speaker dio MP3 Players MP3 A WE Tablet and Pen Pr PDA Figure 1 13 Components for sale Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning 4 Using the following chart list and describe the comparable components their prices and the source of your information You might want to check several sources to find the best price Remember most mail order or online purchases have shipping costs If you can determine an exact shi
27. ite you selected to begin the download process 5 When the File Download dialog box opens save the file to your PC desktop You can then disconnect from the Internet What is the name of the downloaded file Next follow these steps to install Sandra on your PC 1 If the file has a zip file extension double click it to uncompress the Sandra zip file and extract the setup file Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part 14 CHAPTER 1 Introducing Hardware 2 Run the setup program by double clicking the executable file which has an exe file exten sion It might be the downloaded file or the extracted file If an Open File Security Warning dialog box appears click Run In the installation wizard use English as the language selection accept the end user license agreement EULA and accept the default settings throughout Click Finish to complete the installation The Sandra installation creates a new item in your All Programs menu and adds an icon to your desktop Note The installation may require you to install or update DirectX 3 When you finish the installation Sandra will start If a Customize Rank Engines box appears close it Read the Tip of the Day click the Module Options tab uncheck the Show Tips and News on Start up check box and then click OK to close You should see a screen similar to the one in Figure 1 10 Local Computer Si
28. ng but not limited to photocopying recording scanning digitizing taping Web distribution information networks or information storage and retrieval systems except as permitted under Section 107 or 108 of the 1976 United States Copyright Act without the prior written permission of the publisher For product information and technology assistance contact us at Cengage Learning Customer amp Sales Support 1 800 354 9706 For permission to use material from this text or product submit all requests online at cengage com permissions Further permissions questions can be emailed to permissionrequest cengage com Library of Congress Control Number 2009940008 ISBN 13 978 1 435 48740 6 ISBN 10 1 435 48740 0 Course Technology 25 Channel Center Street Boston MA 02210 USA Some of the product names and company names used in this book have been used for identification purposes only and may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective manufacturers and sellers Microsoft and the Office logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and or other countries Course Technology a part of Cengage Learning is an independent entity from the Microsoft Corporation and not affiliated with Microsoft in any manner Any fictional data related to persons or companies or URLs used throughout this book is intended for instructional purposes only At the time this book was printed a
29. ny such data was fictional and not belonging to any real persons or companies Course Technology and the Course Technology logo are registered trademarks used under license Course Technology a part of Cengage Learning reserves the right to revise this publication and make changes from time to time in its content without notice The programs in this book are for instructional purposes only They have been tested with care but are not guaranteed for any particular intent beyond educational purposes The author and the publisher do not offer any warranties or representations nor do they accept any liabilities with respect to the programs Cengage Learning is a leading provider of customized learning solutions with office locations around the globe including Singapore the United Kingdom Australia Mexico Brazil and Japan Locate your local office at international cengage com region Cengage Learning products are represented in Canada by Nelson Education Ltd For your lifelong learning solutions visit course cengage com Visit our corporate website at cengage com Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part CHAPTER 1 Introducing Hardware Labs included in this chapter Lab 1 1 Gather and Record System Information Lab 1 2 Identify Computer Parts Lab 1 3 Use Software to Examine a Computer Part 1 Lab 1 4 Use Software t
30. o Examine a Computer Part 2 Lab 1 5 Compare Costs of Systems Lab 1 6 Plan an Ideal System Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part 2 CHAPTER 1 Introducing Hardware LAB 1 1 GATHER AND RECORD SYSTEM INFORMATION OBJECTIVES The goal of this lab is to use a system s physical characteristics and operating system to determine how the system is configured After completing this lab you will be able to 4 Gather system information by observing a system 4 Use available Windows tools to access specific system information MATERIALS REQUIRED This lab requires the following 4 Windows Vista XP operating system 4 Individuals or a workgroup of 2 to 4 students LAB PREPARATION Before the lab begins the instructor or lab assistant needs to do the following 4 Verify that Windows starts with no errors ACTIVITY BACKGROUND When working with a computer system it s a good idea to know what components are installed on the system This lab helps you identify some of these components as you gather information by observing the system and by using system tools ESTIMATED COMPLETION TIME 15 Minutes Activity Observe the physical characteristics of your system and answer the following questions 1 Does the outside of the case have any identification on it indicating manufacturer model or component information If so list this information 2
31. play information about your system Courtesy Course Technology Cengage Learning 6 How much total space does the hard drive contain How much free space does the hard drive contain What type of file system does the hard drive use 7 To print the Belarc results click File Print from your browser s menu In the Print dia log box click Print Take a few minutes to explore the report that Belarc Advisor gener ated List three other items of information not mentioned already in this lab that you think might be useful when troubleshooting a computer 8 Exit from your browser when you are finished You ll use Belarc Advisor again in later chapters so don t uninstall it In this lab you downloaded Belarc Advisor from the Belarc Web site but many popular utilities are available from multiple sources on the Internet To see for yourself follow these steps 1 Attempt to find Belarc Advisor at www zdnet com 2 Is the program available through this avenue as well Print the Web page or pages to support your answer Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part Lab 1 5 Compare Costs of Systems 19 REVIEW QUESTIONS 1 What URL can you use to find a link to download Belarc Advisor 2 What tool do you use to get a printed report from Belarc Advisor 3 What type of software is Belarc Advisor 4 Compare Belarc Advisor to Sandra that you downloaded and use
32. pping price for each component include this information as part of the component s price If you can t find the exact shipping price include a 10 percent fee as part of the price for each shipped component You might have to include tax depending on the taxing laws that apply Sometimes the shipping cost is offset by not having to pay sales tax on an item Also because you re early in the course you might not know enough details about matching compo nents inside the computer case such as matching a processor to a motherboard How to find correct matches is covered later in the book but for now a close match is all that s necessary Component Description Source Processor MHz Motherboard RAM Case and power supply HDD type and capacity CD DVD ROM drive Other drives Monitor Sound speakers Bonus items such as video card Operating system Bundled software TOTAL SYSTEM PRICE Copyright 2010 Cengage Learning Inc All Rights Reserved May not be copied scanned or duplicated in whole or in part 22 CHAPTER 1 Introducing Hardware REVIEW QUESTIONS 1 Which approach to acquiring a system seems to be less expensive 2 What is the single most expensive component of a system built from separate components 3 What was the estimated cost of shipping if any for the component built system 4 What are some potential pitfalls of building your own PC Rewards SY ALICEN As you continue with this
33. to include in your system the cost of each component and the source for each component To begin list everything you want without considering price 2 After you have determined the total price of all the components you want to include in your ideal system add up the prices and see whether you are within your 800 budget 3 If you are under budget consider including additional components or better versions of com ponents If you re over budget determine what components you need to exclude or whether you need to use less expensive versions of some components Either way record what com ponents you choose Also note how you altered your ideal system to meet your budget CHALLENGE ACTIVITY ADDITIONAL 30 MINUTES Not all systems have the same requirements A server might require lots of RAM and storage space while a gaming machine would benefit from a more powerful video card Design a cus tom 1500 system as either an optimal gaming machine or a media center Create a one page advertisement listing both the benefits and the technical specifications of your system REVIEW QUESTIONS 1 What is the goal of your original system In other words how do you plan to use your system Explain your choices for components 2 How would you change your choices if you were to use this computer in a corporate office as a business workstation 3 What changes would you make if you had an extra 200 in the budget 4 How might you change your
34. unu A Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your PC Jean Andrews Ph D Todd Verge COURSE TECHNOLOGY CENGAGE Learning Australia Canada Mexico Singapore Spain United Kingdom United States COURSE TECHNOLOGY CENGAGE Learning Lab Manual to Accompany A Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your PC Seventh Edition Jean Andrews Todd Verge Vice President Career and Professional Editorial Dave Garza Executive Editor Stephen Helba Acquisitions Editor Nick Lombardi Managing Editor Marah Bellegarde Senior Product Manager Michelle Ruelos Cannistraci Developmental Editor Jill Batistick Editorial Assistant Sarah Pickering Vice President Career and Professional Marketing Jennifer McAvey Marketing Director Deborah S Yarnell Senior Marketing Manager Erin Coffin Marketing Coordinator Shanna Gibbs Production Director Carolyn Miller Production Manager Andrew Crouth Content Project Manager Jessica McNavich Art Director Jack Pendleton Cover photo or illustration Shutterstock Manufacturing Coordinator Julio Esperas Copyeditor Katherine A Orrino Proofreader Christine Clark Compositor Integra Printed in the United States of America 12345671211 1009 2010 Course Technology Cengage Learning ALL RIGHTS RESERVED No part of this work covered by the copyright herein may be reproduced transmitted stored or used in any form or by any means graphic electronic or mechanical includi
Download Pdf Manuals
Related Search