CIT1011 FUNDAMENTALS OF ICT
Udani Samarasinghe
Lecturer
IMBS Green Campus
Module 01 CIT1011 FUNDAMENTALS OF ICT
Contents
10. Comprehensive Guide to Basic Desktop Computer ...................................................... 2
10.1 What is Troubleshooting? ........................................................................................... 2
10.2 Common Desktop Computer Issues ............................................................................ 3
10.3 Troubleshooting Steps ................................................................................................ 3
10.3.1 Step by Step Troubleshooting Process ............................................................. 3
10.4 Detailed Troubleshooting Instructions ................................................................ 3
10.4.1 Resetting CMOS .............................................................................................. 3
10.4.1.1 What is CMOS? ............................................................................................ 3
10.4.1.2 When to Reset CMOS ................................................................................... 3
10.4.1.3 How to Reset CMOS .................................................................................... 4
10.4.2 Replacing RAM ............................................................................................... 4
10.4.2.1 Importance of RAM ...................................................................................... 5
10.4.2.2 How to Replace RAM ................................................................................... 5
10.4.3 Replacing the Hard Disk .................................................................................. 5
10.4.3.1 Signs of Hard Disk Issues ............................................................................. 6
10.4.3.2 How to Replace a Hard Disk ......................................................................... 6
10.4.4 Replacing the Power Supply ............................................................................ 7
10.4.4.1 Power Supply Unit (PSU) Overview ............................................................. 7
10.4.4.2 How to Replace a Power Supply ................................................................... 7
10.4.5 Replacing the Motherboard (Advanced)........................................................... 8
10.4.5.1 Replacing the Motherboard ........................................................................... 8
10.3.5.2 How to Replace the Motherboard .................................................................. 8
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Module 01 CIT1011 FUNDAMENTALS OF ICT
10. Comprehensive Guide to Basic Desktop Computer
Troubleshooting
10.1 What is Troubleshooting?
Troubleshooting is the systematic process of identifying and solving problems within a computer
system.
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Module 01 CIT1011 FUNDAMENTALS OF ICT
Troubleshooting skills are essential for maintaining a functional computer and can save you time and
money.
10.2 Common Desktop Computer Issues
Explore common computer problems, such as boot failures,
slow performance, and hardware errors. Learn to recognize the
symptoms of hardware related issues.
10.3 Troubleshooting Steps
10.3.1 Step by Step Troubleshooting Process
• Resetting CMOS
• Replacing RAM
• Replacing the Hard Disk
• Replacing the Power Supply
• Replacing the Motherboard (advanced)
10.4 Detailed Troubleshooting Instructions
10.4.1 Resetting CMOS
10.4.1.1 What is CMOS?
• Provide a detailed explanation of CMOS, describing its role as a small memory chip on the
motherboard that stores BIOS settings.
10.4.1.2 When to Reset CMOS
• Explain common BIOS errors, such as incorrect settings leading to boot problems, and how
resetting CMOS can resolve them.
• Overclocking Issues:
Describe the impact of overclocking on CMOS settings and how resetting CMOS can
return settings to their default values.
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• Forgotten BIOS Password:
Offer a step-by-step guide on how to reset CMOS to clear a forgotten BIOS password.
10.4.1.3 How to Reset CMOS
• Safety Precautions:
Emphasize safety precautions, including turning off the computer, unplugging it, and
grounding yourself to prevent static discharge.
• Locating the CMOS Battery:
Describe the CMOS battery's physical location on the motherboard, typically a coin cell
battery.
• Removing the CMOS Battery:
Explain how to gently remove the CMOS battery, either using a small screwdriver or your
fingernail, and the importance of waiting for a few seconds to discharge residual power.
• Reinserting the CMOS Battery:
Provide step-by-step instructions on how to reinsert the CMOS battery correctly.
• Power On and Verify:
Explain the process of powering on the computer, checking if CMOS has been reset, and
configuring BIOS settings as needed.
10.4.2 Replacing RAM
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Module 01 CIT1011 FUNDAMENTALS OF ICT
10.4.2.1 Importance of RAM
• Role of RAM:
Elaborate on RAM's role as volatile memory that temporarily stores data for the CPU to
access quickly.
• Symptoms of RAM Issues:
Provide a detailed list of symptoms, such as system crashes, application errors, and slow
performance, that indicate potential RAM problems.
10.4.2.2 How to Replace RAM
• Safety Precautions:
Reiterate safety precautions, including turning off the computer and grounding yourself.
• Locating RAM Slots:
Describe the physical location of RAM slots on the motherboard, typically near the CPU.
• Releasing Retention Clips:
Explain how to gently release the retention clips on the RAM slots to prepare for RAM
removal.
• Removing Old RAM:
Provide a step-by-step guide on how to safely remove the old RAM modules by holding them
on the sides and gently pulling upward.
• Inserting New RAM:
Detail the process of aligning the notches on new RAM modules with the notches on the
slots and firmly pushing them in until they click into place.
• Securing Retention Clips:
Describe how to securely push the retention clips back into place to ensure the RAM is firmly
seated.
10.4.3 Replacing the Hard Disk
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10.4.3.1 Signs of Hard Disk Issues
• Frequent System Crashes or Freezes:
Explain that frequent system crashes or freezes may indicate hard disk problems due to data
read/write errors.
• Slow Boot Times:
Describe how a slow boot process can be a symptom of a failing hard disk.
• Unusual Noises:
Provide examples of unusual noises such as clicking, grinding, or whirring sounds that may
signal mechanical hard disk failure.
• Error Messages:
Explain how error messages related to disk issues, displayed during startup or application
usage, can provide valuable clues.
10.4.3.2 How to Replace a Hard Disk
• Data Backup:
Emphasize the importance of data backup to prevent data loss before replacing the hard disk.
• Selecting a New Hard Disk:
Guide users on selecting an appropriate replacement hard disk drive or solid-state drive based
on storage capacity and performance requirements.
• Disconnecting Cables:
Detail the process of carefully unplugging data and power cables from the old hard disk.
• Opening the Computer Case:
Explain how to access the internal components by removing the computer case's side or
access panel.
• Identifying the Old Hard Disk:
Instruct users on locating the existing hard disk within the computer case, typically mounted
in a drive bay.
• Removing the Old Hard Disk:
Describe the safe removal of the old hard disk by disconnecting cables and removing any
securing screws or brackets.
• Installing the New Hard Disk:
Provide step-by-step guidance on attaching the new hard disk, connecting cables, and
securing it in place with screws or brackets.
• Closing the Computer Case:
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Explain how to reattach the side or access panel to the computer case securely.
• Boot from Installation Media:
Instruct users to boot the computer from Windows installation media (USB drive or DVD)
to install the operating system on the new hard disk.
• Following OS Installation:
Mention that after replacing the hard disk, users may need to reinstall the operating system
and drivers for compatibility.
10.4.4 Replacing the Power Supply
10.4.4.1 Power Supply Unit (PSU) Overview
• Understanding PSU:
Expand on the role of the power supply unit (PSU) in converting electrical energy for
computer components, emphasizing its critical role in system stability.
• Signs of PSU Failure:
Provide a comprehensive list of signs indicating PSU failure, including sudden shutdowns,
overheating, and electrical issues.
10.4.4.2 How to Replace a Power Supply
• Safety Precautions:
Reiterate safety measures, including disconnecting all cables, grounding, and ensuring the
computer is powered off.
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• Determining Wattage:
Explain how to determine the appropriate wattage for a replacement PSU based on the
computer's components.
• Disconnecting Cables:
Describe the process of carefully unplugging all cables connected to the existing power
supply, including motherboard, CPU, graphics card, and peripherals.
• Removing the Old PSU:
Instruct users on unscrewing and removing the old power supply unit from the computer
case.
• Installing the New PSU:
Provide a step-by-step guide on securely attaching the new PSU in place, aligning it with
mounting holes, and fastening it with screws.
• Reconnecting Cables:
Explain how to reconnect all cables to the new power supply, ensuring they are properly
seated and organized for efficient cable management.
• Testing the PSU:
Before closing the computer case, advise users to plug in the power cord and perform tests
to ensure the computer powers on correctly.
10.4.5 Replacing the Motherboard (Advanced)
10.4.5.1 Replacing the Motherboard
• Advanced Troubleshooting:
Clarify that replacing the motherboard is an advanced troubleshooting step that should only
be undertaken by experienced users.
• Component Compatibility:
Emphasize the importance of verifying component compatibility with the new motherboard
before proceeding.
• Data Backup:
Stress the need to back up all essential data before replacing the motherboard, as it may
involve a fresh OS installation.
10.3.5.2 How to Replace the Motherboard
• Safety Precautions:
Reiterate safety precautions, including turning off the computer, unplugging it, and
grounding.
• Documenting Connections:
Advise users to document or take pictures of existing connections and component
placements to aid in reassembly.
• Disconnecting Components:
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Describe how to carefully disconnect all components from the old motherboard, including
CPU, RAM, graphics card, storage drives, and all cables.
• Removing the Old Motherboard:
Instruct users on unscrewing and removing the old motherboard from the computer case
while taking care not to damage other components.
• Installing the New Motherboard:
Provide detailed steps for securely installing the new motherboard in the case, ensuring
alignment with mounting holes and the use of appropriate screws.
• Reconnecting Components:
Explain how to reconnect all components to the new motherboard, including CPU, RAM,
graphics card, storage drives, and all cables.
• Power On and Testing:
Instruct users to plug in the power cord, power on the computer, and verify that the system
boots and operates correctly.
• Operating System Installation:
Mention that users may need to reinstall the operating system and drivers to ensure
compatibility with the new motherboard.
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