8

COMPUTER
Quarter 1
Module 1: Using and Maintaining Hand Tools
Module 2: Performing Computer Operations
Proper tool selection

A tool is a handheld device that aids in accomplishing a task. Tools range from a
traditional metal cutting part of a machine to an element of a computer program that
activates and controls a particular function.

Preparing for the task to be undertaken includes proper tool selection.

1. How do you select the best tool for the job? First, know and understand in
detail the scope of work to be accomplished, second, plan for the scope taking into
account the sequence of tasks.
2. Selecting the best tool for each task requires training in the proper use of the
tools, field experience in their safe use, and following the manufacturer’s guidance and
instructions for that specific tool.
3. When obtaining the tool all the associated tooling and consumable parts, as
recommended by the manufacturer, must be included. In addition, related consumable
parts must also be selected and used according to their manufacturer’s instructions.

Safe Use of tools

Once selected, use the tool for the purpose for which it was designed. Not all
tools come with detailed instructions, but there are those that do spell out the safety
―Do’s and Don’ts for your safety. If there are set-up/use options, operator judgment must
always be based on what is the safest way to use the tool.

Environmental Safety and Health Program requires the following:

Clean tools and equipment work more efficiently. At the end

of each working day clean the tools and equipment you used and
check them for any damage. If you note and damage,
tag the tool as faulty and organize a repair or replacement.

Electrical current can travel over oily or greasy surfaces. Keep

electrical power hand tools free from dust and dirt and make sure
they are free of oil and grease.
All workshop hand tools and equipment should have maintenance
schedule. Always complete the tasks described on the schedule at
the required time. This will help to keep the hand tools in safe
working order.

Store commonly used hand tools in an easy-to-reach location. If a

tool or a piece is too difficult to return, it could be left on a
workbench or on the floor where it will become a safety hazard.
Keep your work area tidy. This will help you work more
efficiently and safely.

HARDWARE TOOLS

To complete hardware repairs, it is important to have a toolkit that should contain all
of the necessary tools. As you gain experience, you will learn which tools to have available
for different types of jobs. Hardware tools are grouped into these four categories:

• Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) tools

• Hand tools
• Cleaning tools
• Diagnostic tools
Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) Tools

Static electricity is easily generated by friction on carpets, tile flooring, clothing,

hair, fabric, and etc. The friction of moving air alone will charge suspended particles
and cause the buildup of static electrical charges on people and objects in the
environment. Grounded antistatic work mats used with antistatic wrist straps provide
the most basic means for the controlled discharge of electrostatic electricity.

Anti-static wrist strap – used to prevent ESD damage to computer

equipment.

Anti-static mat – used to stand on or place hardware on

to prevent static electricity from building up.

Anti-static bag- is a packaging material that is specially

designed to help prevent static electricity interacting with
sensitive electrical components.

Hand Tools

A hand tool is a device for performing work on a material or a physical system

using only hands. The hand tools can be manually used employing force, or
electrically powered, using electrical current

Flat head screwdriver – used to loosen or tighten slotted

screws.

Philips head screwdriver – used to loosen or tighten

crosshead screws.

Torx screwdriver - used to loosen or tighten screws that

have a star-like depression on the top, a feature that is
mainly found on laptop.

Hex driver – sometimes called a nut driver, is used to

tighten nuts in the same way that a screwdriver tightens
screws.
 Needle-nose plier – used to hold small parts

Wire cutter – used to strip and cut wires

Tweezers – used to manipulate small parts.

Flashlight or Headlight – used to light up areas that you

cannot see well.

Soldering Pencil – a tool used to join two or more metal

conductors with the support of soldering lead melted around
it.

Desoldering Tool – a tool used to unsoldered unwanted parts

or component in the circuit with the support of soldering
pencil.

Precision Screwdriver- comes from different

interchangeable heads which can be switched; used for tiny
screws found in the inner part of the components of a
compute

Crimping tool- used to connect wires into the metal

components of a computer; it is designed to connect or
attach a connector at the end of a cable to be able to link or
connect to a network of other computers
Cleaning Tools

Having the appropriate cleaning tools is essential when maintaining or

repairing computers. Using these tools ensures that computer components are not
damaged during cleaning. They also make computers tidy and dirt-free.

Lint-free cloth – used to clean different computer

components without scratching or leaving debris.

Compressed air – used to blow away dust and debris from

different computer parts without touching the components.

Cable ties – used to bundle cables neatly inside and outside

of a computer.

Parts organizer – used to hold screw, jumpers, fasteners and

other small parts and prevents them from getting mixed
together.

Paint brush- its long and soft natural bristles can be used to
dust off the surface of circuit boards and its hard-to- reach
areas

Rubbing alcohol- used to wipe away sticky substances on

the surface of components; its quick evaporation lessens the
chance of causing electrical damage to components
Diagnostic Tools

Computers are easier to use and more dependable with each new generation of
hardware and operating system update, but that doesn't mean they're problem- free.
Diagnostic tools are used to test the integrity of circuits and functionality of ports.

LAN Tester- is a device used to test the network

connection.

Digital Multimeter- also called Volt-Ohm- Milliammeter

(VOM), a handy and battery operated tool used to measure
voltge, current and resistance; and effective tool to check or
diagnose if the circuits in a component is working or not.

Multimeter – used to test the integrity of circuits and the

quality of electricity in computer components.

Loopback Adapter – used to test the functionality of

computer ports.

Toner probe – the toner part is connected to a cable at

one end using specific adapters, such as an RJ-45, coaxial,
or metal clips. The toner generates a tone that travels the
length of the cable. The probe part traces the cable. When
the probe is in near proximity to the cable to which the
toner is attached, the tone can be heard through a speaker
in the probe.

PROPER USE OF TOOLS

Proper Use of ESD Tools

The purpose of an antistatic wrist strap is to equalize the electrical charge between
you and the equipment. The antistatic wrist strap is a conductor that connects your
body to the equipment that you are working on. When static electricity builds up in
your body, the connection made by the wrist strap to the equipment, or ground,
channels the electricity through the wire that connects the strap. The wrist strap has
two parts and is easy to wear:

1. Wrap the strap around your wrist and secure it using

the snap or Velcro. The metal on the back of the wrist
strap must remain in contact with your skin at all times.
2. Snap the connector at the end of the wire to the wrist
strap, and connect the other end either to the equipment
or to the same grounding point that the antistatic mat is
 connected to. The metal skeleton of the case is a good
place to connect the wire. When connecting the wire to
equipment that you are working on, choose an unpainted
metal surface. A painted surface does not conduct the
electricity as well as unpainted metal.
An antistatic mat is slightly conductive. It works by drawing static electricity away
from a component and transferring it safely from equipment to a grounding point: 1. Lay
the mat on the workspace next to or under the computer case. 2. Clip the mat to the
case to provide a grounded surface on which you can place parts as you remove them
from the system. Reducing the potential for ESD reduces the likelihood of damage to
delicate circuits or components.
Proper Use of Hand Tools

A technician needs to be able to properly

use each tool in the toolkit. This topic covers
many of the various hand tools used when
repairing computers.
Screws Match each screw with the proper
screwdriver. Place the tip of the screwdriver on the
head of the screw. Turn the screwdriver clockwise
to tighten the screw and counterclockwise to
loosen the screw.

Screws can become stripped if you over-tighten them with a screwdriver. A

stripped screw, may get stuck in the screw hole, or it may not tighten firmly. Discard
stripped screws.
Flat head screwdriver Use a flat head screwdriver when you are working with a
slotted screw. Do not use a flat head screwdriver to remove a Phillips head screw.
Never use a screwdriver as a pry bar. If you cannot remove a component, check to see
if there is a clip or latch that is securing the component in place.
CAUTION: If excessive force is needed to remove or add a component, something is
probably wrong. Take a second look to make sure that you have not missed a screw or
a locking clip that is holding the component in place. Refer to the device manual or
diagram for additional information.

Phillips head screwdriver Use a Phillips head screwdriver with crosshead screws.
Do not use this type of screwdriver to puncture anything. This will damage the head of
the screwdriver.
Hex driver Use a hex driver to loosen and tighten bolts that have a hexagonal (six-
sided) head. Hex bolts should not be over-tightened because the threads of the bolts can
be stripped. Do not use a hex driver that is too large for the bolt that you are using.

CAUTION: Some tools are magnetized. When working around

electronic devices, be sure that the tools you are using have not
been magnetized. Magnetic fields can be harmful to data stored
on magnetic media. Test your tool by touching the tool with a
screw. If the screw is attracted to the tool, do not use the tool.
Part retriever, Needle-nose pliers, or tweezers The part retriever, needle-nose
pliers, and tweezers can be used to place and retrieve parts that may be hard to reach with
your fingers. Do not scratch or hit any components when using these tools.
CAUTION: Pencils should not be used inside the computer to change the setting of
switches or to pry off jumpers. The pencil lead can act as a conductor and may damage
the computer components.
Proper Use of Cleaning Materials

Keeping computers clean inside and out is a

vital part of a maintenance program. Dirt can cause
problems with the physical operation of fans,
buttons, and other mechanical components. On
 electrical components, an excessive buildup of dust
will act like an insulator and trap the heat. This
insulation will impair the ability of heat sinks and
cooling fans to keep components cool, causing chips
and circuits to overheat and fail.

CAUTION: When compressed air is used to clean inside the computer, the air should be
blown around the components with a minimum distance of four inches from the
nozzle. The power supply and the fan should be cleaned from the back of the case.
CAUTION: Before cleaning any device, turn it off and unplug the device from the power
source.
Computer Cases and Monitors Clean computer cases and the outside of
monitors with a mild cleaning solution on a damp, lint-free cloth. Mix one drop of
dishwashing liquid with four ounces of water to create the cleaning solution. If any
water drips inside the case, allow enough time for the liquid to dry before powering on
the computer.
LCD Screens Do not use ammoniated glass cleaners or any other solution on an
LCD screen, unless the cleaner is specifically designed for the purpose. Harsh
chemicals will damage the coating on the screen. There is no glass protecting these
screens, so be gentle when cleaning them and do not press firmly on the screen.

CRT Screens to clean the screens of CRT monitors, dampen a soft, clean, lint-
free cloth with distilled water and wipe the screen from top to bottom. Then use a soft,
dry cloth to wipe the screen and remove any streaking after you have cleaned the
monitor.

Clean dusty components with a can of compressed air. Compressed air does not
cause electrostatic buildup on components. Make sure that you are in a well- ventilated
area before blowing the dust out of the computer. A best practice is to wear a dust mask
to make sure that you do not breathe in the dust particles.

Blow out the dust using short bursts from the can. Never tip the can or use the
compressed air can upside down. Do not allow the fan blades to spin from the force of
the compressed air. Hold the fan in place. Fan motors can be ruined from spinning
when the motor is not turned on.
Component Contacts Clean the contacts on components with isopropyl alcohol.
Do not use rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol contains impurities that can damage
contacts. Make sure that the contacts do not collect any lint from the cloth or cotton
swab. Blow any lint off the contacts with compressed air before reinstallation.
Keyboard Clean a desktop keyboard with
compressed air or a small, hand-held vacuum
cleaner with a brush attachment.
CAUTION: Never use a standard vacuum cleaner
inside a computer case. The plastic parts of the
vacuum cleaner can build up static
electricity and discharge to the components. Use only a vacuum approved for electronic
components.
Mouse Use glass cleaner and a soft cloth to clean the outside of the mouse. Do
not spray glass cleaner directly on the mouse. If cleaning a ball mouse, you can remove
the ball and clean it with glass cleaner and a soft cloth. Wipe the rollers clean inside
the mouse with the same cloth. Do not spray any liquids inside the mouse.

A. Matching Type
Match column B with the tools being describe in column A. In your notebook copy and
answer the table.

A B
 1. Use to stand on or place
hardware on to prevent static
electricity from building up.
A.

_2. Tighten / loosen screw

B.

_3. Tighten / looses bold with a

hexagonal head
C.

_4. Retrieve parts that may be

hard to reach by your fingers

D.

_5. a tool used to join two

or more metal conductors with
the support of soldering lead
melted around it.
E.

B.Choose your answer from the box below. Write your answer in your activity
notebook

Philips head screwdriverLan tester

Hex driver Lint Anti-static mat
Anti-static wrist strapCables ties
free cloth Hand tools
Compress air Desoldering tool Torx screwdriver
Multimeter
flat head screwdriverPaint brush
Crimping tool Wire cutter

1. A Tool used to strip and cut wires.

2. A tool used to unsoldered unwanted parts or component in the circuit
with the support of soldering pencil.
3. This is use to loosen or tighten crosshead screws.
 4. Sometimes called a nut driver, is used to tighten nuts in the same way
that a screwdriver tightens screws.
5. Its long and soft natural bristles can be used to dust off the surface of
circuit boards and its hard-to-reach areas
6. It is use to loosen or tighten slotted screws.
7. It is use to test the integrity of circuits and the quality of electricity in
computer components
8. It is use to clean different computer components without scratching or
leaving debris.
9. It is use to connect wires into the metal components of a computer; it is
designed to connect or attach a connector at the end of a cable to be able
to link or connect to a network of other computers

10. It is use to prevent ESD damage to computer equipment.

C.Arrange the scrambled letters to form a word below by understanding the given
meaning of the correct term. Write your answer in your activity notebook.

TROLLEC-ITATSC SIDGEARCH LOOTS

Provides the most basic means for the controlled discharge of

electrostatic electricity.

DNAH TSOLO

Devices for performing work on a material or a physical

system using only hands.

NIEACLNG OOLTS

These tools ensure that computers stay tidy and dirt-free.

TINOGASDIC SOOLT

They are used to test the integrity of circuits and functionality

of ports.

Module 2: Performing Computer Operations

What is a Computer?
A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It
has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. Among the many uses of
computer are: to type documents, send email, play games, and browse the Web. It
can also be used to edit or create spreadsheets, presentations, and even videos.

Hardware vs Software
The two important terms relating to computers are hardware and software.

Hardware is any part of your computer that has a physical structure, such as the
keyboard or mouse. It also includes all of the computer's internal parts.

Software is any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do and how
to do it. Examples of software include web browsers, games, and word processors.

Everything you do on your computer will rely on both hardware and software.
 Types of Computers

Desktop computers are designed to be placed on a

desk, and they’re typically made up of a few
different parts, including the computer case,
monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

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Laptop computers are battery-powered computers that are

more portable than desktops, allowing you to use them
almost anywhere.

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Tablet computers or tablets are handheld computers that

are even more portable than laptops. Instead of a keyboard
and mouse, tablets use a to uch-sensitive screen for typing
and navigation.

A. Direction. Identify the terms referred by each item. Write

the answer in your notebook.
1. An electronic device that manipulates information, or data.
2. A cell phone that can do a lot of things computers can do.
3. The most portable, handheld computer that use a touch- sensitive
screen for typing and navigation.
4. A computer that serves up information to other computers on a
network.
5. Any part of your computer that has a physical structure, such as the
keyboard or mouse.
6. The original version of the most common type of personal computer that
was introduced in 1981.
7. A specialized type of computer that is used for playing video games on
your TV.
8. A general term for a group of devices—including fitness trackers and
smartwatches—that are designed to be worn throughout the day.
9. Any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do and how to
do it.
10. The first widely sold personal computer with a graphical user
interface.