1.3.2.3 Lab – Disassemble a Computer Answers

In this lab, you will disassemble a desktop computer using safe lab procedures and the proper tools. Use extreme care and follow all safety procedures. Familiarize yourself with the tools you will be using in this lab.

The goal of this lab is to separate the components and practice using tools probably. The separated components can be used in a later lab for assembly.

This lab does not include removing the motherboard, CPU, and cooling device from the computer due to the replacement cost of these items. If possible, allow students to remove these components from spare or broken computers that are kept in the classroom for part identification and demonstration.

Part 1: Preparation

Part 2: Parts Removal

Instructions

Generally, computer cases are held in place using one or a combination of these three ways below:

Screwless

These cases are held together using metal or plastic clips. To open the case, the clips are released by pressing buttons or switches to remove the side panel.

Screw

Locate all the screws that secure the side panels to the back of the computer. These screws are located at the edge of the case. Use the proper size and type of screwdriver to remove the side panel screws. Do not remove the screws that secure the power supply to the case. Put all the screws in one place, such as a compartment in the parts organizer or small cup. Label the compartment or cup with a piece of masking tape on which you have written side panel screws. Remove the side panels from the case.

Thumbscrew

These cases come with screws that you can tightened or loosen with your fingers. Loose the thumbscrews to remove the side panel. The thumbscrews are located on the edge of the computer case.

If you have a camera or smartphone, take a picture of the inside of the computer case to be used as a reference when reassembling the computer.

Questions:

What type of screwdriver did you use to remove the screws?

A Phillips screwdriver and hex drivers are the most commonly used screwdrivers to remove case panels.

How many screws secured the side panels?

Answers may vary. Normally there are two screws for each panel on a mid-tower case.

Put on an antistatic wrist strap. Connect one end of the conductor to the wrist strap. Clip the other end of the conductor to an unpainted, metal part of the case.

If you have an antistatic mat, place it on the work surface and put the computer case on top of it. Ground the antistatic mat to an unpainted, metal part of the case.

In this part, you will remove the internal drives and data cables, adapter cards, memory modules, and power supply.

Note: Some manufacturers do not use screws to fasten components inside of the computer case. Some may use plastic or metal clips that fasten components to the computer chassis. When in doubt, perform a web search for manufacturer of the computer case or computer system.

Note: Be careful to remove only screws that are holding components in place, and not the screws that hold components together.

Note: Be very careful when removing video adapters. There is often a locking tab on the slot that must be released before the card can be removed.