COMPUTER SYSTEMS SERVICING

MODULE 1 - INSTALLING COMPUTER SYSTEMS

AND NETWORKS
This module will teach you how to install, assemble and test computers and common peripherals.

Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:

a. Plan and prepare for installation
b. Install equipment/device systems
c. Conduct tests

A. CONNECTING BASIC PERIPHERAL DEVICES

At the end of this session, you will be able to:
Identify the basic peripherals needed to start up a computer system
Connect the basic peripherals to a computer system unit
Start up the computer system

System unit. It is the main part of the computer system and houses the Central Processing Unit (CPU), motherboard,
memory, storage devices, expansion cards and the power supply

Computer peripherals are devices that are attached to a computer. These devices are not part of the system unit, but
are important since they provide the input and output functions in order for the users to perform their tasks.
The basic peripherals that you will need to start-up the computer are:
1. Monitor
2. Keyboard
3. Mouse
A computer monitor or display screen is an output device that enables the user to view text, graphics and videos.
A keyboard is an input device that allows the user to enter instructions and information into a computer.
A mouse is an input device that controls the movement of the cursor or pointer and enables the user to move and select
items that are displayed on the monitor.

B. INSTALLING AN OPERATING SYSTEM

At the end of this session, you will be able to:

Configure boot options in the BIOS

Install an operating system on a computer

An operating system or OS is a program that is loaded after the computer starts-up and manages all operations and
applications in a computer. The most popular operating system is Microsofts Windows.

Other examples of operating systems are:

1. Apples Mac OS X
2. Redhat Linux, and other open source distributions of Linux
3. Why do we need to install an Operating System?
Without an operating system a computer is just a metal casing with components inside it. The operating system acts as an
interface between the user and the computer, translating the user inputs into machine instructions and, thus letting the
computer perform the desired task.

In this session you are going to install Microsofts Windows XP.

What you will need:

Computer system with at least 1GB memory and a 500GB hard disk drive
Windows XP installation CD
Windows XP license key
 System manual that comes with your computer
Step 1: Setting up the boot option
Why do we need to set the computer to boot from the CD-ROM drive?
Normally a computer system boots from the hard drive. From here, the computer loads the operating system that is
installed on the computer system.
Since we are installing a new operating system on the computer, and our installation files are stored in a CD-ROM, we
need to set the computer to boot from the CD-ROM drive instead. This is done in the BIOS setup.
Procedure:
1. Turn on the computer.
2. Press the Delete key while the computer is starting up to enter the BIOS setup. This will work on most computer
systems.
Note: Other computers have function keys to access the BIOS setup. You may need to consult your users manual on
how to access the BIOS setup screen.
4. In the BIOS setup screen, look for the Boot Options Menu. This is usually found at the top of the screen. In some
computers it is found in the Advance menu.
5. Select the CD-ROM Drive as the first boot device.
6. Go to the Exit menu and select Save and Exit to save your configuration.
Note: You may need to consult the User's Manual on how to set the CD-ROM Drive as first boot device.

Step 2: Partitioning the hard drive

What is disk partitioning?

Disk partitioning is simply dividing your hard drive into multiple volumes known as logical drives.
As an example, if you have a 500 GB hard drive, you can divide the hard drive into two volumes, each with 250GB (e.g.
250 GB drive C: and 250 GB drive D:). By doing this, you can install the operating system and applications in one volume
and your data and documents in another volume.
In case the operating system gets corrupted and needs to be re-installed, you can do so without losing documents and
other data since these are stored in another partition.
Procedure:
1. Insert the Windows XP Installation CD in the CD-ROM drive and restart the computer.
2. When prompted as the computer reboots, press any key to start the installation.
3. After the installer completes copying all necessary files to install Windows XP, you will be taken to the welcome
setup screen. To install a fresh copy of Windows XP, press the Enter key.
4. Read the Windows XP License Agreement, then press F8 to agree with the terms and conditions and proceed
with the installation.
Deleting a partition
5. To delete a partition. Select the drive then press D, and then press Enter, and finally press the L key.
Step 3: Formatting the hard drive

Why do we need to format the hard drive?

Formatting the hard drive is a process that prepares the hard drive for writing and reading data. The process involves
erasing all data stored on the hard drive. It also tests the disk for errors and corrects them if any are found.

When formatting the hard drive, we need to specify a file system. In Windows XP, we can select either
the FAT32 or NTFS.
Procedure:
1. Select Format the partition using the NTFS file system option and press ENTER to continue.
2. After the drive is formatted, the installer will copy the installation files to your hard disk. Once all the operations
are completed, the computer will restart.
Note: Do not remove the Windows XP installation CD from the CD-ROM Drive while the computer is restarting.
3. After the computer reboots, it willautomatically start the Windows installer.You may proceed to the next step.

Step 4: Setting up the Windows environment

Setting the Windows environment lets you localize the version of Windows you are installing. For example, if you want to
display text in Chinese, you can set this in the Regional and Language Options.
Procedure:
1. When Windows XP starts for the first time it will scan for any new hardware and will install the needed drivers of
the supported devices, this may take several minutes to complete.

2. The Regional and Language Options screen will appear. Click the Next button to accept the default setting and
continue.
 3. On the Personalize Your Software screen, enter your name and organization. Then click the Next button to
continue.
Example: Enter Juan Dela Cruz as your name and Computer Corporation in the organization text box.

4. Next, enter your Windows XP Product Keythat comes with your Installation CD. The product key is 25
characters long and is unique for every installation CD. Once you have entered the product key, click
theNext button to continue.
Step 5: Setting up the computer name and administrator account
The Computer name is used to identify your computer in a network. This name should be unique for each computer.
The Administrator is a super user account that has no restrictions. This account may be used to set configuration options
(e.g. network settings, install software and perform other administrative tasks).
Procedure:
On the Computer Name and Administrator Password screen, enter your desired computer name and password. Click on
the Next button to continue.
Example: Enter MyComputer in the Computer name text box and enter P4w@rd in the Administrator password text
box.
Step 6: Setting up the date and time
Set the correct date and time. This is important especially when downloading updates and security patches.
Procedure:
On the Date and Time settings, enter the correct date and time.
Select your time zone then click on the Next button to continue.
Step 7: Setting up the network
Setting up the network connects your computer to the internet and/or to your local area network. By doing this, you will be
able to access shared network resources such as files, applications and devices.
Procedure:
1. Windows XP will now detect network connections. If the network card in the computer is supported by Windows
XP. It will install the drivers for you. Once finished, select Typical Setting and click the Next button to continue.
2. On the Workgroup or Computer Domain screen, enter your desired workgroup name or leave it as it is and click
the Next button to continue.
3. After setting the workgroup, the installer will finalize all settings and restart the computer. When the computer
reboots you may now remove the Windows XP installation CD from the CD-ROM Drive.
Step 8: Setting up the display
Procedure:
1. After the computer reboots and loads into Windows, a display setting dialog box will appear. Click Ok to let
Windows XP adjust your screen resolution. Windows will automatically detect the best resolution for your monitor;
this will make sure that the text will be readable.
2. On the Welcome to Microsoft Windows screen, click Next to continue.

Step 9: Registering Windows XP

By registering your copy of Windows you will have access to Windows updates and security patches. This will be
downloaded to and installed on your computer automatically.
Procedure:
1. Windows will now check for your internet connectivity, click the Skip button to continue.
2. At this time, we will not be registering Windows, so on the registration screen, click on the "No, not at this time
option" and click on the Skip button to continue.

Step 10: Creating log-in credentials

Creating log-in credentials is useful when the computer is to be used by multiple users. Windows will create document
folders that are only accessible to specific user.

For this task, you will be creating one (1) user credential.
Procedure:
1. On the "Who will use this computer?" screen, enter your desired user name and click on the Next button. This
credential will be used every time you log-in to your computer.
Example: Enter User on the your name text box.
2. You are almost finished with installation and configuration of windows XP, click on the Finish button to proceed to
the desktop.
Congratulations! You have installed Windows XP on your computer.

SUMMARY
 A. An Operating system is important for a computer system as it acts as an interface between the user and the
computer. Without it a computer will not be able to perform tasks.

B. There are ten (10) essential steps you need to remember when installing a Windows Operating System, these are:
1. Setting up the boot option
2. Partitioning the hard drive
3. Formatting the hard drive
4. Setting up the Windows environment
5. Setting up the computer name and administrator account
6. Setting up the date and time
7. Setting up the network
8. Setting up the display
9. Registering Windows XP
10. Creating log-in credentials

C. INSTALLING SYSTEM DRIVERS

At the end of this session, you will be able to:
o Install a Video Card Driver
o Install a Network Interface Controller (LAN port) Driver
o Install a Sound Card Driver

The Video Card

A video card is an expansion card that converts data input into visual display.
Installing the video card driver
Procedure:
1. Insert the CD containing the video card driver into the CD-ROM.
2. In Windows Explorer, browse and select the drive containing the device driver.
3. Double click on setup.exe or the appropriate executable file.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
5. After the installation is finished reboot the computer.
The Network Interface Controller (LAN port)
Network Interface Controller or LAN port is a device that connects your computer to other computers and devices in a
network.
Installing the Network Interface Controller driver
Procedure:
1. Insert the CD containing the network interface controller driver into the CD-ROM.
2. In Windows Explorer, browse and select the drive containing the device driver.
3. Double click on setup.exe or the appropriate executable file.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
5. After the installation is finished, reboot the computer.
The Sound Card (audio adapter)
The sound card or audio adapter is a device that enables your computer to play and record sounds.
Installing the Sound Card (audio adapter) driver
Procedure:
1. Insert the CD containing the Network Interface Controller driver into the CD-ROM.
2. In Windows Explorer, browse and select the drive containing the device driver.
3. Double click on setup.exe or the appropriate executable file.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
5. After the installation is finished, reboot the computer.
D. INSTALLING COMPUTER NETWORKS
At the end of this session, you will be able to:
Identify the different types of network
Identify the different network topologies
COMPUTER NETWORK
What is a network?
A network is the interconnection of computers, devices and peripherals to allow them to communicate, share or print data
and information.
There are two types of networks:
1. Local Area Network (LAN)
The Local Area Network or LAN is the interconnection of computers and devices using a hub, switch or router within a
small area such as building, school, office or home.
2. Wide Area Netwok (WAN)
The Wide Area Network or WAN is the interconnection of a number of local area networks over a large area such as
province, city, or country. WANs usually utilize high end technologies and high capacity network equipment.

NETWORK MODELS
Types of Network Models
1. The Client - Server Model
The Client-Server model consists of one or more servers that provide services / applications or resources to one or more
individual computers called clients. The client and server communicates using a computer network. An example of a
Client Server Model is the Internet.
A server is a computer providing one or more services (printing, file, data and information sharing, email, and other
applications) to serve other computers and devices. A server machine runs the different programs or applications and
services which share their resources with clients. A client does not share any of its resources but requests a server's
content or service function.
A client is a computer or device that is requesting a service or resources from a server. The client computer sends the
request to the server machine.
2. The Peer - to - Peer Model
The Peer -to -peer model consists of two or more connected computers sharing similar capabilities, services and
resources. Peers are both providers and users of resources in contrast to the client-server model where only servers
provide or supply(send), and clients request and consume(receive) the service.

NETWORK TOPOLOGY
What is the Network Topology?

It is a representation or structure of a network that deals with different types of interconnectivity.

What are the types of Network Topologies?

Network topologies are categorized into the following basic types:

1. Bus Topology
The Bus Topology uses a common cable to connect all the computers. A computer wanting to communicate with another
computer on the network sends the message to all computers through the cable, but only the target computer accepts the
message.
2. Ring Topology
Computers that are using the Ring Topology forms a ring when interconnecting to each other. A computer in the ring
topology transmits the message, either clockwise or counterclockwise through the computer on either side. The message
is then passed on from computer to computer until it reaches the intended recipient.
3. Star Topology
The Star Topology uses a central device such as a hub, switch or a router to connect a computer / computers to the
network. All communication requests are transmitted through the central device before reaching the intended target
computer.
4. Mesh Topology
The Mesh Topology employs network redundancy which means messages sent can take several routes from source to
destination. When one hub, switch or router is unavailable, the message is rerouted to another device until the messages
reaches its destination. The internet employs the mesh routing topology.
SUMMARY
A Network is the interconnection of computers, devices and peripherals to allow them to communicate, share or print data
and information.
A Network Topology is the layout pattern representation of the interconnection of all the computers, nodes, links and other
peripherals of a network. It shows the structure and transmission links that connect nodes in a network.
In this session you have identified the:
1. Types of Networks
2. Types of Network Topologies

E. SETTING UP A WIRELESS NETWORK

At the end of this session, you will be able to:
o Install a Wireless Router
o Install a Wireless LAN Card
1. INSTALLING A WIRELESS ROUTER
Wireless Network
A Wireless Network, or commonly called as WLAN or Wi-Fi uses radio signal frequency to connect computers and other
network devices.
This is based on the IEEE 802.11 standards rules and regulations.
What are the benefits of a Wireless Network?

Flexibility. With no wires you can easily access your network resources from any location.
Cost. It reduces the cost of installation and labor.
Security. The wireless network uses a wireless router which has security features to encrypt your network traffic.
What is a Wireless Router?
It is a device that performs like a wired router without using cable to connect to a network.
How to Install a Wireless Router?
Installing a wireless router is the more convenient way to connect to the internet/network and share resources.
Instructions on how to install a Wireless Router:
1. Make sure that the computer, modem and wireless router are disconnected from the power outlet.
2. Connect one end of the network cable into the ethernet port of the modem, and the other end into the WAN or
Internet port of the wireless router.
3. Reconnect to the power outlet and turn on your computer, modem and wireless router.
4. To check if the network cable is properly connected, the WAN or Internet port LED indicator of the wireless router
should turn green. Otherwise, check if the network cable is properly inserted.
5. You may then proceed to configure your wireless router. To do this, please refer to the User's Manual on how to
configure your wireless router.

2. INSTALLING A WIRELESS LAN CARD

Wireless LAN Card
A Wireless LAN Card is a device that is capable of connecting computers thru the use of wireless technology. It does not
use wires or cables to connect to the network.
Procedure:
1. Turn off the computer. Make sure it is unplugged from the power outlet
2. Remove all peripheral devices that are connected to the system unit.
3. Remove the side cover of the system unit.
4. Locate a free PCI slot on your motherboard.
5. Insert the wireless LAN card into the PCI slot by pushing it gently on both ends. Make sure that the wireless LAN
card is firmly inserted.
6. Screw to securely fasten the wireless LAN card.
7. Put the side cover back into place.
8. Turn on your computer.
9. For the wireless LAN card to work, you will need to install the wireless LAN card driver.
10. After installation of the driver, you can now connect the computer to a wireless network.

Summary
A Wireless Router is a router that is capable of sending and receiving data thru the use of wireless technology.
A Wireless LAN card is a device that enables the computer to connect to a Local Area Network (LAN) with its wireless
technology.

In this Session you learned about:

Installation of a Wireless Router
Installation of a Wireless LAN Card
 Module 2 - Configuring Computer Systems and
Networks
A. CONNECTING AND CONFIGURING A PRINTER
At the end of this session, you will be able to:
Connect a printer to the computer
Install a printer driver
Perform a print test

A printer is a peripheral device that accepts text and graphics output from a computer and transfers them to paper. The
most common printers are inkjet and laser printers.

Connecting the Printer to the System Unit

Procedure:
1. Position your printer next to the system unit.
2. Connect the USB cable of the printer to a free USB port of the system unit.
3. Plug the power cord of the printer to a power outlet.
4. Turn on the printer.

Installing the printer driver

Procedure:
1. Insert the CD containing the printer driver into the CD-ROM.
2. In Windows Explorer, browse and select the drive containing the device driver.
3. Double click on setup.exe or the appropriate executable file.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Performing print test

Procedure:
1. Go to Control Panel
2. Double Click on Printer and Devices icon
3. Right click on the printer you just installed and select Properties
4. Click on the Print Test Page button
5. If there are no errors, the printer will print a test page containing information about the printer

B. CONNECTING AND CONFIGURING A SCANNER

At the end of this session, you will be able to:
Connect a scanner to the computer
Install the scanner driver
Perform scanning procedures

A scanner or image scanner is a peripheral device that optically scans printed text and images, and converts them into
digital images or documents. The most common type of scanners are flatbed scanners.

Connecting the Scanner to the System Unit

What you will need

1. Scanner
2. CD or any media containing the scanner driver

The following instructions are applicable to scanners with USB connectors

Procedure:
1. Position your scanner next to the system unit.
2. Connect the USB cable of the scanner to a free USB port of the system unit.
3. Plug the power cord of the scanner to a power outlet.
4. Turn on the scanner
Instruction: Click the Play icon to view the video demonstration on how to connect the scanner to the system unit.
Installing scanner driver
Procedure:
1. Insert the CD containing the scanner driver into the CD-ROM.
2. In Windows Explorer, browse and select the drive containing the device.
3. Double click on setup.exe or the appropriate executable file.
4. Follow the on screen instructions.
Instruction: Click the Play icon to view the video demonstration on how to install the scanner driver.

Scanning an image or document

Procedure:
1. Launch the scanner application or utility on your computer.
2. Place a photo or document in the scanner.
3. Click Scan on the scanner application.
Follow the prompts to save the scanned image on your computer.

C. CONNECTING AND CONFIGURING WEBCAM

At the end of this session, you will be able to:
Connect a webcam to the computer
Install a webcam driver

A webcam is a peripheral device that captures images and displays it in real time on a computer system.

CONNECTING THE WEBCAM TO THE SYSTEM UNIT

What you will need
1. Webcam
2. CD or any media containing the webcam driver
The following instructions are applicable to webcams with USB
Procedure:
1. Position your webcam.
2. Connect the USB cable of the webcam to a free USB port of the system unit
Instruction: Click the Play icon to view the video demonstration on how to connect the webcam to the system unit.

INSTALLING WEBCAM DRIVER

Procedure:
1. Insert the CD containing the webcam driver into the CD-ROM.
2. In Windows Explorer, browse and select the drive containing the device
3. Double click on setup.exe or the appropriate executable file.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Instruction: Click the Play icon to view the video demonstration on how to install the webcam driver.

D. CONNECTING A HEADSET OR SPEAKERS

At the end of this session, you will be able to:
Connect a headset to the computer
Connect a speaker to the computer
Play music to test the speakers or headset

A headset is an audio output device that combines headphones with a microphone.

CONNECTING THE HEADSET TO THE SYSTEM UNIT
What you will need
1. Headset
2. Instruction manual that comes with your headset
3. Instruction manual that comes with your computer
The following instructions are applicable to headsets with 3.5mm stereo connectors.

Procedure:
1. Identify the 3.5 mm connectors of your headset. The headphone connector is usually colored green or black. For the
microphone, it is usually colored red or pink. You may need to consult your headset manual to identify these connectors.
2. Locate the headphone sockets on your system unit, which are usually colored green or black. Microphone sockets are
colored red or pink. You may need to consult your computers manual to locate these sockets.

3. Plug the headphone connector into the headphone socket. Do the same for the microphone connector.
Instruction: Click the Play icon to view the video demonstration on how to connect the headset to the system unit.

A Speaker or multimedia speaker is an audio output device that converts electrical

signals into sounds.
HOW TO CONNECT SPEAKER TO THE SYSTEM UNIT
What you will need
1. Desktop speaker
2. Instruction manual that comes with your speaker
3. Instruction manual that comes with your computer
The following instructions are applicable to desktop speaker with a 3.5mm stereo jacks.
Procedure:
1. Identify the 3.5 mm audio jack or connector on your speaker. The jack is usually colored green or black.
2. Locate the audio socket on the system unit. This it is usually colored green or black.
3. Plug the speakers audio connector into the audio socket on the system unit
Instruction: Click the Play icon to view the video demonstration on how to connect the speaker to the system unit.