Lecture Notes: PC Disassembly and Reassembly

Overview

• Standard PC components and their disassembly/reassembly.
• Steps to take apart and put back together a computer safely.

Initial Steps for Disassembly

• Positioning:
  • Lay the PC case flat with connectors at the bottom.
• Opening the Case:
  • Unscrew the thumb screws.
  • Slide back and lift the case off.

Inside the Computer

• Components Overview:
  • Power Supply
  • System Board (Motherboard)
  • Processor with fan and heat sink
  • Hard Drive
  • CD ROM
• Key Cables:
  • SATA cables and power connectors (squeeze and pull to disconnect).

Removing Components

• Power Supply:
  • Disconnect all power cables from the system board.
  • Remove screws holding power supply and slide it out.
• Hard Drive and CD ROM:
  • Remove screws and slide out.

System Board (Motherboard) Disassembly

• **Disconnect Components: **
  • Memory: Release tabs and remove.
  • PCI Cards: Unscrew and pull out.
  • Front Panel Connectors: Lightly pull to disconnect.
• Removal:
  • Unscrew and lift system board out of the case.

Processor and Heat Sink

• Processor Removal:
  • Unplug fan power, release heat sink and lift processor.
  • Note triangular alignment when reinstalling.

Key System Board Components

• Connectors:
  • Power, IDE, Floppy Drive, SATA, PCI slots.
• External Ports:
  • USB, Audio, Ethernet, Video, PS2.
• Processor Socket and Memory Slots:
  • Identify the processor type and memory slots.

Reassembly Steps

• Processor and Heat Sink:
  • Apply thermal paste, lock the processor in place.
• Installing System Board:
  • Align with back ports and secure with screws.
• Reinstallation of Drives and Power Supply:
  • Slide in, connect power and SATA cables.

Final Steps

• Connecting Components:
  • Power and data cables for drives and system board.
  • Reinstall PCI cards.
  • Ensure all connectors and cables are secure.
• Closing the Case:
  • Slide the case back on and secure with thumb screws.

Key Considerations

• Cable Management: Keep cables organized to avoid interference with fans.
• Component Security: Ensure tight connections to prevent movement.
• Static Electricity Precautions: Use anti-static bags and precautions.

Conclusion

• Detailed breakdown of disassembly/reassembly of a PC.
• Importance of proper handling and connection of components.