Computer Assembly Exercise

How to Assemble a Basic Desktop PC?

What parts are necessary to build the computer?

• Computer Case

• Processor (CPU)

• Power Supply

• Optical Drive (DVD RW and SATA capable)

• Memory (RAM)

What tools do you need for the project?

• Needle-nosed pliers

• Wire cutters and strippers

• Screwdriver (for slotted and Phillips head screws)

• Utility knife

• Small flashlight

What should be done before assembly begins?

• Remove any parts or packaging materials that may have been shipped inside the case

• Remove the cover for the optical drive

• Make note of the cables pre-installed in the case

What is the purpose of the Bootstrap loader?

• To locate the kernel and load it into main memory

• To run diagnostics on the machine

• To initialize CPU registers

What does BIOS do during the boot process?

• Runs diagnostics to determine the state of the machine

• Loads the operating system

• Initializes CPU registers

What tasks are performed at boot up?

What happens if there is no active partition or the active partition's boot sector is invalid?

What is the function of the boot record in DOS?

What should you do before upgrading your computer?