Lesson Plan
Course Title: Computer Maintenance
Session Title: Introduction to PCs: How Computers Work
Lesson Duration: Will vary from instructor to instructor
Performance Objective:
Upon completion of this assignment, students will be able to discuss the components and
processes that make personal computers (PCs) work.
Specific Objectives:
• Identify the boot process, including initializing and testing the system, and loading the OS
and the boot sequence required to operate the computer.
• Discuss the boot process, including initializing and testing the system, and loading the OS
and the boot sequence required to operate the computer.
• Identify the hardware components that make up the computer.
• Discuss the hardware components that make up the computer.
• Identify system resources in the context of computer configuration.
• Discuss system resources in the context of computer configuration.
• Complete the identified lab exercises associated with lesson.
Preparation
TEKS Correlations:
§130.273. Computer Maintenance
(1) The student demonstrates the necessary skills for career development, employability, and
successful completion of course outcomes. The student is expected to:
(C) employ effective reading and writing skills;
(D) employ effective verbal and nonverbal communication skills;
(E) solve problems and think critically;
(4) The student acquires an understanding of computer technologies. The student is expected
to:
(G) describe the architecture of various computer systems;
(H) describe the function of computer components such as central processing units, storage
devices, and peripheral devices;
(5) The student knows the proper function and application of the tools, equipment, and materials
used in computer technologies. The student is expected to:
(A) demonstrate safe use of equipment in computer technologies such as hand and power
tools;
(B) employ available reference documentation such as tools, materials, and Internet sources
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to access information as needed;
(6) The student applies the concepts and skills of the trade in simulated work situations. The
student is expected to:
(A) use electronic test equipment to measure current, voltage, power, and resistance;
(B) describe digital circuits design;
(C) identify the operational features and proper terminology related to computer systems;
(D) identify the various components of a computer system such as the central processor,
basic input and output system, read-only memory, and random access memory;
(7) The student uses hardware design, operation, and maintenance knowledge and skills to
provide computer support. The student is expected to:
(A) identify the purpose and function of computer components in the operation of the
computer system such as central processing unit, mother board, sockets, chipsets, basic
input and output system and their drivers, memory, hard drive technologies, video cards,
input and output devices and ports, and modem and network interface cards (NIC);
Instructor/Trainer
References:
1. Cisco Systems Networking Academy Program: IT Essentials I: PC Hardware and
Software
2. Chapter 2: How Computers Work.
Instructional Aids:
1. PowerPoint Presentation: Introduction to PCs: How Computers Work
2. PowerPoint Presentation: Introduction to PCs: How Computers Work – Handouts
3. Introduction to PCs: Lab 1
4. Introduction to PCs: Lab 2
5. Introduction to PCs: Lab 3
6. Introduction to PCs: Lab 4
7. Introduction to PCs: Lab 5
8. Introduction to PCs: Lab 6
9. Introduction to PCs: Lab 7
10. Introduction to PCs: Lab 8
11. Intro to Computer Parts Quiz and Key
12. Introduction to PCs: How Computers Work Exam
13. Introduction to PCs: How Computers Work Exam Key
Materials Needed:
1. A standard computer technician tool kit (with wrist-strap). [For each pair of students]
2. Copies of Lab Assignments 1 through 8. [For each student]
Equipment Needed:
1. A projection system to display the PowerPoint presentation
2. One PC for each pair of students for labs, with Windows 98 Operating System or newer
3. A motherboard (with manual) for each pair of students; for labs
4. Expansion cards for each pair of students for labs
5. Internet access for the students
Learner
Students should read the appropriate curriculum material for how computers work [depending
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on the text/curriculum being used for this course]. This lesson can be taught with only the
PowerPoint presentation, and the equipment outlined above.
Introduction
MI
Introduction (LSI Quadrant I):
SAY: Understanding what makes up a PC and how it works is an introductory step
for a computer technician. Knowledge of how the computer works will help the
technician solve repair and upgrade problems.
SAY: Every computer has four basic functions: input, output, processing, and
storage.
ASK: Does anyone know which function, and which component of that function is
the most important aspect of making a computer work? Can you explain why?
[Processing is the most important function and the central processing unit
(CPU), is the key to making the computer work. The CPU is considered the
“brains” of the computer and directs all the functions of the computer.]
Outline
MI
Outline (LSI Quadrant II):
Instructor Notes:
1. Introduce the students to the boot process including
a. Initializing and testing the system
b. Loading the OS
c. The boot sequence required to operate the
computer
2. Introduce the students to the hardware components
that make up the computer including
a. Motherboards and their components.
b. Monitors
c. Input/Output ports.
d. Storage devices.
3. Introduce the students to system resources in the
context of computer configuration including
a. Interrupt Requests (IRQ)
b. I/O Address
4. The students complete lab demonstrations including
a. Lab 1: Motherboards
b. Lab 2: CPU
c. Lab 3: ROM and BIOS Chips
d. Lab 4: Bus Types & Expansion Slots
e. Lab 5: RAM and RAM Sockets
f. Lab 6: Video Card
g. Lab 7: System Resources
h. Lab 8: Computer parts
Application
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MI
Guided Practice (LSI Quadrant III):
1. The teacher shows and demonstrates each lab principle.
2. The teacher maintains direct supervision in the lab, providing guidance when
warranted.
MI
Independent Practice (LSI Quadrant III):
1. The students work in pairs on lab assignments, demonstrating their skills in
identifying and discussing the various lab requirements and results.
Summary
MI
Review (LSI Quadrants I and IV):
1. Ask the students summary questions:
a. What are the four functions of a computer? [Input, Output, Processing, and
Storage]
b. What are some of the storage devices available on a PC? [Hard drive, floppy
drive, CD-RW, Tape, etc.]
c. What is the motherboard expansion slot most commonly used today? [PCI]
2. Revisit the basic components of the PC and their function.
Evaluation
MI
Informal Assessment (LSI Quadrant III):
1. Teacher will monitor student progress during independent practice and provide
independent re-teach/redirection as needed.
MI
Formal Assessment (LSI Quadrant III, IV):
1. Administer the computer parts identification quiz
2. Administer an objective multiple-choice test.
Extension
MI
Extension/Enrichment (LSI Quadrant IV):
Students that have mastered the lab assignments can peer-tutor students [one-onone] that are having difficulty identifying and discussing the various components and
functions of a PC.
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Icon
MI
Verbal/
Linguistic
Logical/
Mathematical
Visual/Spatial
Musical/
Rhythmic
Bodily/
Kinesthetic
Intrapersonal
Interpersonal
Naturalist
Existentialist
Teaching Strategies
Personal Development
Strategies
Lecture, discussion, journal
writing, cooperative learning,
word origins
Reading, highlighting, outlining,
teaching others, reciting information
Problem-solving, number
games, critical thinking,
classifying and organizing,
Socratic questioning
Mind-mapping, reflective
time, graphic organizers,
color-coding systems,
drawings, designs, video,
DVD, charts, maps
Use music, compose songs
or raps, use musical
language or metaphors
Organizing material logically, explaining
things sequentially, finding patterns,
developing systems, outlining, charting,
graphing, analyzing information
Developing graphic organizers, mindmapping, charting, graphing, organizing
with color, mental imagery (drawing in
the mind’s eye)
Use manipulatives, hand
signals, pantomime, real life
situations, puzzles and board
games, activities, roleplaying, action problems
Reflective teaching,
interviews, reflective listening,
KWL charts
Cooperative learning, roleplaying, group brainstorming,
cross-cultural interactions
Natural objects as
manipulatives and as a
background for learning
Socratic questions, real life
situations, global
problems/questions
Creating rhythms out of words, creating
rhythms with instruments, playing an
instrument, putting words to existing
songs
Moving while learning, pacing while
reciting, acting out scripts of material,
designing games, moving fingers under
words while reading
Reflecting on personal meaning of
information, studying in quiet settings,
imagining experiments, visualizing
information, journaling
Studying in a group, discussing
information, using flash cards with
other, teaching others
Connecting with nature, forming study
groups with like-minded people
Considering the personal relationship to
the larger context
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INTRO TO PC’S
LAB 1: MOTHERBOARDS
Student Name: __________________________
Date: __________
Objective
Focus on your ability to identify motherboards, and identify a number of the systems
component.
Equipment
The following equipment is required for this exercise:
•
•
•
A system board
Internet access
Motherboard manuals
Scenario
You have just been hired by a local computer store as a repair technician. You are just
beginning your training. You will be required to replace motherboards either in an
upgrade situation or due to a motherboard failure.
Procedures
•
•
•
•
Be sure to place the system on an antistatic mat [if available].
Use an anti-static wrist strap.
Make sure the system’s power cord is not attached.
Follow carefully all necessary safety precautions concerning power supplies and
electro-static discharge.
1st Step
If the motherboard is installed in a case, remove the case cover. If the motherboard is
not installed in a case place it on the bench in front of you.
2nd Step
If needed, remove any components and/or cabling to gain access to the motherboard
manufacturer’s name and ID number. Be sure to carefully record these connections so
they can be properly replaced.
Not all motherboards are alike. Some of the information may not be available.
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3rd Step
Record the following information from the computer’s motherboard.
Components
Manufacturer
Model Number
Form Factor (size and layout)
Type of CPU installed
Type of CPU Supported (socket or slot)
Chipset
BIOS Manufacturer
BIOS Battery
ISA or EISA (number and type)
PCI (number and type)
AGP or AGP Pro (number and type)
Jumpers
DIP settings
Available? (Y/N)
Name/Type (If applicable)
Troubleshooting
Check on the motherboard manufacturer’s website to find information regarding the
motherboard BIOS and whether there is an upgrade available.
NOTES:
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INTRO TO PC’S
LAB 2: CPU
Student Name: __________________________
Date: __________
Objective
Focus on your ability to identify the type of CPU and CPU socket on your motherboard.
Equipment
The following equipment is required for this exercise:
•
•
•
A system board
Motherboard manuals
Processor manual/documentation
Scenario
You have been hired by your neighbor to upgrade her computer with a new CPU. You
will have to determine the speed and type CPU her motherboard currently supports.
Procedures
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the heart of the computer. It receives data,
interprets data, and performs major calculations. You will need to determine which CPU
is currently installed on your neighbor’s motherboard and the speed that motherboard
can support. Slot or socket type will also need to be determined and contrasted with
other socket types.
•
•
•
•
Be sure to place the system on an antistatic mat [if available].
Use an anti-static wrist strap.
Make sure the system’s power cord is not attached.
Follow carefully all necessary safety precautions concerning power supplies and
electro-static discharge.
1st Step
List below the type CPU socket that is used on this motherboard.
________________________________________________________________
2nd Step
Will this socket support an upgrade to the CPU?
________________________________________________________________
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3rd Step
What type of CPU is used?
Manufacturer
Type/Part Number
Speed:
Heat Sink (if used)
Cooling Fan (if used)
4th Step
Is this socket type compatible with CPUs from other manufacturers?
5th Step
Using the Internet or other resources, locate all the specifications about the particular
CPU that is in your computer. Attach copies of any additional research material used in
completing this assignment.
Troubleshooting
Take care when installing a CPU into a Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) Socket. The CPU will
be keyed with a pin missing on one corner. Installation should be straightforward;
simply line up the processor with the socket and it should fall into place.
NOTES:
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INTRO TO PC’S
LAB 3: ROM AND BIOS CHIPS
Student Name: __________________________
Date: __________
Objective
Focus on your ability to locate and identify the ROM chip, BIOS chip, and BIOS
manufacturer on your motherboard.
Equipment
The following equipment is required for this exercise:
•
•
•
A system board
Motherboard manuals
Internet access for research
NOTE: A functioning system is not necessary to complete this lab.
Scenario
You have purchased a used computer at a garage sale. You want to install an
expansion card in the computer to add some video editing capabilities. Before you
invest in the expansion card, you need to make sure that the BIOS will support it.
Procedures
BIOS – Basic Input-Output System is a ROM chip that has built-in commands, which
allow the system to power-up and perform a self-test of its hardware before turning over
control to the operating system.
ROM – Read-Only Memory, as its name implies, can be read, but not changed. It is
used to store basic information the computer needs to operate (for example, the BIOS).
Determine the manufacturer and version number of the BIOS. Research the BIOS
manufacturer’s website to see if there are newer versions available. Also, examine the
physical ROM chip to help answer the questions below.
•
•
•
•
Be sure to place the system on an antistatic mat [if available].
Use an anti-static wrist strap.
Make sure the system’s power cord is not attached.
Follow carefully all necessary safety precautions concerning power supplies and
electro-static discharge.
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1st Step
Describe the physical appearance of the ROM chip and it’s location on the board:
2nd Step
What type of BIOS is used?
Manufacturer:
Version/Type:
Battery Type:
Rewrite-able?
3rd Step
If an Internet connection is available, visit the manufacture’s website and list the version
number and any new features that are supported.
4th Step
Can the BIOS be upgraded?
5th Step
What are the steps you would take to upgrade the BIOS?
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Troubleshooting
Be very careful when flashing the BIOS. Make sure it is the correct file and that it is not
corrupt. If you flash your BIOS with the incorrect type or with a corrupt file, you may ruin
your system board and cause it to be inoperable.
NOTES:
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INTRO TO PC’S
LAB 4: BUS TYPES AND EXPANSION SLOTS
Student Name: __________________________
Date: __________
Objective
Upon completion of this lab, you will be able to identify safety issues, specifications, and
components relating to expansion slots. You will also be able to list the advantages and
disadvantages of each expansion slot.
Equipment
The following equipment is required for this exercise:
•
•
•
•
A system board
Motherboard manuals
Expansion cards
Internet access for research
Scenario
You have purchased a new computer at the local mall. You want to know what type of
video card, and other expansion cards can be installed in your new computer. You will
then be able to make an educated decision when you are ready to buy new expansion
cards.
Procedures
An expansion slot is a long, thin, socket connection, located on a motherboard or riser
board, which allows various cards to be added to a computer. These cards may include
devices such as sound cards, network interface cards (NIC), video cards, and modems.
The expansion slots allow the computer to have a new lease on life, since new
technology can be added as it becomes available.
•
•
•
•
•
Be sure to place the system on an antistatic mat [if available].
Use an anti-static wrist strap.
Make sure the system’s power cord is not attached.
Follow carefully all necessary safety precautions concerning power supplies and
electro-static discharge.
Remove the computer’s case, if applicable.
1st Step
Locate your motherboard’s expansion slots and list them below:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
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2nd Step
Identify any expansion cards that are installed:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Troubleshooting
Sometimes when a PC is shipped from one location to another, an expansion card may
become unseated. Verify that all expansion cards are properly seated as well as all
connectors properly plugged in before turning the unit on.
NOTES:
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INTRO TO PC’S
LAB 5: RAM AND RAM SOCKETS
Student Name: __________________________
Date: __________
Objective
Focus on the identification of various types of RAM and RAM sockets.
Equipment
The following equipment is required for this exercise:
•
•
•
•
An operational computer system
Proper tools to remove the computer case cover
Motherboard manuals
RAM Tester (Optional)
Scenario
Your neighbor would like to upgrade the RAM in his computer, but he is not sure how to
locate it or how to determine how much RAM is installed. Help him determine what he
has so he can figure out how much more RAM to buy.
Procedures
Random Access memory (RAM) is memory used by the CPU to store open files and
active applications temporarily. RAM is volatile, meaning that any information stored in
it is lost when powered-down. RAM comes in small expansion board forms with varying
numbers of edge connectors. The RAM “sticks” are made in 30, 72, 168, or 184 pin
configurations. They are referred to as SIMMs or DIMMs – depending on the chip
density. Many times, the only information to be gained visually is the manufacturer’s
name.
•
•
•
•
•
Be sure to place the system on an antistatic mat [if available].
Use an anti-static wrist strap.
Make sure the system’s power cord is not attached.
Follow carefully all necessary safety precautions concerning power supplies and
electro-static discharge.
Remove the computer’s case, if applicable.
1st Step
Boot your system and record the POST amount of RAM: __________________
2nd Step
Shut down your computer and follow all the safety steps in removing the computer’s
cover.
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3rd Step
After gaining access to the motherboard, note the position of the RAM slots and
whether they are in use, making notes in your journal:
Slot Type
Total Number of slots:
Number of slots open:
Total RAM capacity
4th Step
Record the information about the installed RAM “sticks” in the table below:
Manufacturer:
Type:
Capacity: (each)
Speed:
Total Capacity Installed:
Position:
5th Step
Look in the motherboard manual or search the Internet for the type and range of
RAM chips that can be installed on this computer.
6th Step
If there are two “sticks” of RAM installed, remove one of your RAM “sticks,” noting
the location and orientation of the stick.
7th Step
Replace the computer’s cover and plug in the power cords. Restart the computer
system. Note the POST-test RAM amount. _____________________________
8th Step
Shut down the system and follow all the safety steps in removing the computer’s
cover.
9th Step
Replace the RAM stick that you removed in the 6th Step.
10th Step
Replace the computer’s cover and plug in the power cords. Restart the computer
system. Note the POST test RAM amount. _____________________________
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11th Step
Reflect in your journal about any special considerations you should be aware of as
of you install the RAM memory.
Attach copies of any additional research material used in completing this worksheet
before handing in this assignment.
Troubleshooting
Be careful when working with RAM. ESD is one of the most prominent problems when
working on computers. Make sure you have anti-static wrist-strap on at all times and
that you are properly grounded.
NOTES:
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INTRO TO PC’S
LAB 6: VIDEO CARD
Student Name: __________________________
Date: __________
Objective
Major features and specifications of different video cards will be discussed in this lab.
You will be able to identify the video card by any markings on the card. These may
include a manufacturer’s name and/or part number. Some cards may be identified only
by the physical layout of the card.
Equipment
The following equipment is required for this exercise:
•
•
•
•
•
ESD wrist strap
Standard tool kit
Lab workstation with video card installed
Internet access
Manufacturer manuals
Scenario
You are an avid gamer and wish to compare the features of all the video cards at your
disposal. Since you need the latest and greatest video card for the latest and greatest
games, you will want to pay special attention to the manufacturer and performance
specifications of each video card.
Procedures
A video adapter, or card, is an expansion card that allows the computer to display
images on a monitor. It also determines the monitor’s depth and resolution. The need
for the video card is determined by the intended usage of the system. For example, a
system used for gaming will need a much “higher end” card than one used for word
processing.
•
•
•
•
•
Be sure to place the system on an antistatic mat [if available].
Use an anti-static wrist strap.
Make sure the system’s power cord is not attached.
Follow carefully all necessary safety precautions concerning power supplies and
electro-static discharge.
Remove the computer’s case, if applicable.
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1st Step
After removing the system case, remove the video card from its expansion slot.
Research and supply the following information:
Manufacturer:
Model Number:
URL site:
Key features:
System requirements:
Cost
Terms
Research the following terms using the following Internet resources and other
Internet resources:
•
•
www.techweb.com/encyclopedia
http://www.webopedia
AGP port:
EDO RAM:
Pixel:
Refresh rate:
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Resolution:
Troubleshooting
When working with video cards, like any other component on the inside of a compute,
take special care to be grounded and make sure to use an anti-static wrist-strap. If the
only video card is damaged, the computer will be useless until a new video card in
installed.
NOTES:
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INTRO TO PC’S
LAB 7: SYSTEM RESOURCES
Student Name: __________________________
Date: __________
Objective
Upon completion of this lab, you will be able to view and identify the computer’s
resources. You will be able to identify the IRQ assignments, and retrieve DMA settings.
You will also investigate memory assignments to Input/Output devices and verify
assignments of memory to system memory resources..
Equipment
The following equipment is required for this exercise:
•
Functional PC running Windows 98 with administrative rights
Scenario
You purchased a new expansion card, but it does not work properly. You contacted
technical support to find out why it does not work and they said you needed to check to
make sure there are enough system resources available to install it.
Procedures
System resources are used by the operating system to control how expansion cards,
ports, and other system devices communicate with the microprocessor.
Navigate Windows 98 and use the “Systems Properties” console to find out the information
necessary to complete this exercise.
1st Step
Power on the computer and verify that the Windows 98 Desktop displays.
2nd Step
Click the Start menu icon on the Task Bar. Select the Settings option and then click
once on Control Panel.
3rd Step
Double-click on the System icon. This will open the “System Properties” window.
List the different tabs available in the System Properties window.
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4th Step
Next, click on the Device Manager tab. The Device Manager provides information on
hardware components.
Name three hardware components that are displayed in the Device Manager.
5th Step
Highlight “Computer” by placing the cursor on it and clicking once. Then click the
Properties button at the bottom of the System Properties window. A new window will
open displaying the “Computer Properties”.
With the “View Resources” tab selected, list the four different radio buttons.
6th Step
From the “View Resources” tab, select the “Interrupt Request (IRQ)” radio button. This
will show a list of all the IRQs used on the PC.
List the devices that are assigned to each IRQ for your PC in the following chart. (If no
devices are listed, enter “none”.)
IRQ
Device
IRQ
0
8
1
9
2
10
3
11
4
12
5
13
6
14
7
15
Device
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Are the IRQs listed in numerical order on your computer’s screen? ___________
Which IRQs are available on your computer for future use?
7th Step
Next, select the “Direct memory access (DMA)” radio button.
List the devices that are assigned to each DMA channel in the following chart. (If no
devices are listed, enter “none”.)
DMA
Device
DMA
0
4
1
5
2
6
3
7
Device
Which DMA channel is used to support the Floppy Disk Controller?
8th Step
Select the “Input/Output” (I/O) radio button.
Fill in the beginning and ending memory addresses for the following Input/Output
devices. (If more than one address range is listed for the device, use the first one.)
Input/Output
Beginning Address
Ending Address
COM 1
COM 2
LPT 1
Floppy Disk
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Why are the memory address assignments for the above ports and devices necessary?
9th Step
Select the “Memory” radio button.
List the beginning and ending memory address for the following memory resources. (If
more than one address range is listed, use the first one.)
Input/Output
Beginning Address
Ending Address
PCI bus
Motherboard
System Board
Are each of the addresses that are listed in the table above unique? _________
Troubleshooting
How can knowing where to find the IRQ, DMA, I/O, or memory of a device in a
computer help a computer technician troubleshoot and diagnose an improperly
operating computer system?
NOTES:
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Name:________________________________ Period:___________
INTRO TO PC’S
Lab 8: Computer Parts
Directions:
Name and describe each of the computer parts in the pictures below.
Part
Description
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IT: Computer Maintenance: Intro to PC Plan
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CTE Intro to Computer Parts Quiz
Matching
a.
k.
b.
l.
c.
m.
d.
n.
e.
o.
f.
p.
g.
q.
h.
r.
i.
s.
j.
t.
____
1. Modem
____
____
2. Mouse
____ 10. Printer
____ 17. Sound Card
____
3. CD ROM Drive
____ 11. Network Card
____ 18. Microphone
____
4. RAM
____ 19. Video Board
____
5. Keyboard
____ 12. Application
Software
____
____
____
6. Scanner
7. Hard Drive
8. Speakers
9. Processor
____ 13. Barcode
Reader
____ 14. Monitor
____ 15. Floppy Drive
____ 16. Hardware
____ 20. Operating
System
Software
IT: Computer Maintenance: Intro to PC Plan
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
29
CTE Intro to Computer Parts Quiz - KEY
MATCHING
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
T
J
C
D
E
P
G
H
N
B
K
L
M
I
O
F
Q
R
S
A
IT: Computer Maintenance: Intro to PC Plan
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
30
INTRO TO PC’S: HOW COMPUTERS WORK - EXAM
Student Name: __________________________
Date: __________
DIRECTIONS: Circle the letter that corresponds to the best answer for each of the questions below.
Question 1: Which computer resource allows a device to bypass the processor and directly
access memory?
A.
B.
C.
D.
IRQ
DMA
RAM
cache
Question 2: Which component of the boot sequence analyzes hardware devices before loading
the operating system?
A.
B.
C.
D.
bootstrap loader
setup utility
power-on self-test
system diagnostics
Question 3: Which factor determines the speed of the CPU?
A.
B.
C.
D.
processor socket
motherboard form factor
external clock on the motherboard
size of the address bus
Question 4: Which expansion slot is now most commonly used on new motherboards?
A.
B.
C.
D.
extended industry standard architecture (EISA)
peripheral component interconnect (PCI)
industry standard architecture (ISA)
micro channel architecture (MCA)
Question 5: What is the standard resolution for VGA mode?
A.
B.
C.
D.
640x480
800x600
1024x768
1600x1200
Question 6: How many read/write heads are in a hard drive that contains three platters?
A.
B.
C.
D.
1
3
6
7
IT: Computer Maintenance: Intro to PC Plan
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
31
Question 7: Pixels consist of which colors?
A.
B.
C.
D.
red, green, and blue
red, blue, and yellow
blue, green, and yellow
blue, green, and black
Question 8: What is the default SCSI ID of the SCSI controller card?
A.
B.
C.
D.
0
6
8
7
Question 9: How many interrupts do AT computers now have?
A.
B.
C.
D.
16
15
8
7
Question 10: What is the maximum number of devices that can be connected to a typical SCSI
1 controller card?
A.
B.
C.
D.
6
7
8
2
Question 11: Which of following are the two most common motherboard form factor in use
today?
Baby AT and ATX
Baby ATX and AT
IDE and SCSI
EIDE and SCSI II
Question 12: Most new systems come with which of the following motherboard form factor(s)?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Baby AT and ATX
Baby ATX and AT
Baby AT
ATX
IT: Computer Maintenance: Intro to PC Plan
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
32
Question 13: Which of the following components is NOT a major component of the
motherboard?
A.
B.
C.
D.
CMOS chip
RAM sockets
Expansion sockets
EIDE controlling electronics
Question 14: Bootstrap is located on which of the following devices?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Expansion sockets
RAM sockets
Control unit
BIOS chip
Question 15: Which of the following configurations is proper for parallel ports?
A.
B.
C.
D.
LPT1 only
LPT1, LPT2, or LPT3
COM1, COM2, or COM3
COM1, COM2, COM3 or COM4
Question 16: A typical computer contains how many serial ports?
A.
B.
C.
D.
4
3
2
1
Question 17: Generally, how many serial ports CAN a PC IDENTIFY?
4
3
2
1
Question 18: Which of the following statements is NOT a function of the Control Unit?
A.
B.
C.
D.
It directs the movement of data to and from processor memory.
It tests the computer’s hardware and locates/loads the operating system into RAM
It instructs the rest of the computer system on how to follow a program’s instruction.
It temporarily holds data, instructions, and processed information in its arithmetic/logic
unit.
IT: Computer Maintenance: Intro to PC Plan
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
33
Question 19: Which of the following IS NOT a common expansion slot a technician is likely to
encounter on a PC motherboard?
A.
B.
C.
D.
ISA
PCI
AGP
SCSI
Question 20: Which of the following IS NOT a device that is connected to the computer through
a parallel port?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Printer
Scanner
VGA Monitor
Portable hard disk
IT: Computer Maintenance: Intro to PC Plan
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
34
INTRO TO PC’S: HOW COMPUTERS WORK – EXAM KEY
DIRECTIONS: Circle the letter that corresponds to the best answer for each of the questions below.
Question 1: Which computer resource allows a device to bypass the processor and directly
access memory?
A.
B.
C.
D.
IRQ
DMA
RAM
cache
Question 2: Which component of the boot sequence analyzes hardware devices before loading
the operating system?
A.
B.
C.
D.
bootstrap loader
setup utility
power-on self-test
system diagnostics
Question 3: Which factor determines the speed of the CPU?
A.
B.
C.
D.
processor socket
motherboard form factor
external clock on the motherboard
size of the address bus
Question 4: Which expansion slot is now most commonly used on new motherboards?
A.
B.
C.
D.
extended industry standard architecture (EISA)
peripheral component interconnect (PCI)
industry standard architecture (ISA)
micro channel architecture (MCA)
Question 5: What is the standard resolution for VGA mode?
A.
B.
C.
D.
640x480
800x600
1024x768
1600x1200
Question 6: How many read/write heads are in a hard drive that contains three platters?
A.
B.
C.
D.
1
3
6
7
IT: Computer Maintenance: Intro to PC Plan
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
35
Question 7: Pixels consist of which colors?
A.
B.
C.
D.
red, green, and blue
red, blue, and yellow
blue, green, and yellow
blue, green, and black
Question 8: What is the default SCSI ID of the SCSI controller card?
A.
B.
C.
D.
0
6
8
7
Question 9: How many interrupts do AT computers now have?
A.
B.
C.
D.
16
15
8
7
Question 10: What is the maximum number of devices that can be connected to a typical SCSI
1 controller card?
A.
B.
C.
D.
6
7
8
2
Question 11: Which of following is the two most common motherboard form factors in use
today?
Baby AT and ATX
Baby ATX and AT
IDE and SCSI
EIDE and SCSI II
Question 12: Most NEW systems come with which of the following motherboard form factor(s)?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Baby AT and ATX
Baby ATX and AT
Baby AT
ATX
IT: Computer Maintenance: Intro to PC Plan
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
36
Question 13: Which of the following components is NOT a major component of the
motherboard?
A.
B.
C.
D.
CMOS chip
RAM sockets
Expansion sockets
EIDE controlling electronics
Question 14: Bootstrap is located on which of the following devices?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Expansion sockets
RAM sockets
Control unit
BIOS chip
Question 15: Which of the following configurations is proper for parallel ports?
A.
B.
C.
D.
LPT1 only
LPT1, LPT2, or LPT3
COM1, COM2, or COM3
COM1, COM2, COM3 or COM4
Question 16: A typical computer contains how many serial ports?
A.
B.
C.
D.
4
3
2
1
Question 17: Generally, how many serial ports CAN a PC IDENTIFY?
4
3
2
1
Question 18: Which of the following statements is NOT a function of the Control Unit?
A.
B.
C.
D.
It directs the movement of data to and from processor memory.
It tests the computer’s hardware and locates/loads the operating system into RAM
It instructs the rest of the computer system on how to follow a program’s instruction.
It temporarily holds data, instructions, and processed information in its arithmetic/logic
unit.
IT: Computer Maintenance: Intro to PC Plan
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
37
Question 19: Which of the following IS NOT a common expansion slot a technician is likely to
encounter on a PC motherboard?
A.
B.
C.
D.
ISA
PCI
AGP
SCSI
Question 20: Which of the following IS NOT a device that is connected to the computer through
a parallel port?
A.
B.
C.
D.
Printer
Scanner
VGA Monitor
Portable hard disk
IT: Computer Maintenance: Intro to PC Plan
Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.
38