How to Assemble a Computer

Last updated: 29 Aug 2006

Overview

Overview of components and tools; selection of components; safety and anti-static considerations; hands-on experience assembling a surplus computer; testing assembled computer.


Seminar Duration

2 hrs.


Student Prerequisites

none


Student Provides

  1. Philips screwdriver

  2. Needle-nose pliers (optional)


Lab Provides

  1. Case

  2. Cables (IDE, power cord, antistatic wrist strap)

  3. Screws

  4. Power supply

  5. Mainboard

  6. CPU, heatsink/fan, thermal grease

  7. RAM

  8. CDROM drive

  9. Hard drive

  10. Video card

  11. Monitor

  12. Keyboard and mouse


Preparation

  1. Make sure default BIOS settings will show finished configuration

  2. Disassemble all computers (20 min/computer x 15 computers = 5 hrs)

  3. Lay out parts and equipment (2 hrs)

  4. Prepare whiteboard; check markers, erasers

  5. Turn OFF and unplug power strips


Delivery

  1. Describe components in general

  2. Provide basic guidance on selection of components

  3. Describe safety and anti-static considerations

  4. Establish plan for assembly

    1. Provide grounding for wrist straps
    2. Install power supply in case
    3. Install mainboard
    4. Connect power supply cords to mainboard
    5. Install CPU
    6. Apply thermal grease
    7. Install heatsink and fan
    8. Connect fan to mainboard power
    9. Install RAM
    10. Connect IDE cables to mainboard
    11. Install hard drive
    12. Connect primary IDE and power cables to hard drive
    13. Install CDROM drive
    14. Connect secondary IDE and power cables to CDROM drive
    15. Install video card and secure
    16. Connect LED lights and speakers
    17. Connect video cable to video card
    18. Connect keyboard to mainboard
    19. Connect mouse to mainboard
    20. Connect power cord to power supply

  5. Assemble as planned

  6. Test

    1. Plug in power strips
    2. Turn on power strips
    3. Turn on power supplies
    4. Turn on computer
    5. Verify correct assembly by the BIOS hardware detection screens

  7. Wrap up and make sure equipment (wrist straps, lab screwdrivers, etc.) remain in lab


Cleanup

  1. Mark nonfunctional computers for later rebuild

  2. Power off computers