ANU UG 1st Sem Computer Fundamentals Lab Experiment 1 — Assembling & Disassembling of Computer System

 Aim:

To study, identify, assemble, and disassemble the various hardware components of a computer system.

Objective:

• To familiarize with the internal and external parts of a computer.
• To understand the role and interconnections of each component.
• To learn how to properly assemble and disassemble a desktop computer.
• To practice safety measures while handling hardware components.

Apparatus / Requirements:

• System Unit (CPU Cabinet)
• Motherboard
• Processor (CPU)
• RAM Modules
• Hard Disk / SSD
• SMPS (Power Supply)
• Optical Drive (if available)
• Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse
• Screwdriver Set, Anti-static Wrist Strap, Cleaning Brush
• Connecting Cables (SATA / Power Cables)

Theory:

A computer system consists of input, output, storage, and processing units.

• Assembling involves integrating all internal hardware components such as motherboard, CPU, RAM, storage drives, and power supply into the cabinet and connecting external peripherals.
• Disassembling is the reverse process, performed carefully to avoid damage.Proper handling ensures the computer’s performance, longevity, and maintenance safety.Understanding each component’s location, function, and connection is vital for troubleshooting and hardware upgrading.

Procedure:

A. Disassembling Steps:

1. Power off the computer and unplug all cables.
2. Remove the cabinet side panels using a screwdriver.
3. Disconnect all internal power and data cables.
4. Carefully remove the hard disk, RAM, SMPS, and CPU fan.
5. Unscrew the motherboard from the base plate.
6. Arrange all components systematically and label them.

B. Assembling Steps:

1. Fix the motherboard into the CPU cabinet using screws and spacers.
2. Insert the processor into the CPU socket and lock it properly.
3. Apply thermal paste and mount the CPU fan.
4. Insert RAM into the memory slots carefully.
5. Connect the power supply (SMPS) and plug in 24-pin and 4-pin connectors to the motherboard.
6. Mount storage devices (HDD/SSD) and connect SATA power and data cables.
7. Connect front-panel connectors (Power SW, Reset, LED indicators).
8. Close the cabinet panels, reconnect peripherals (monitor, keyboard, mouse).
9. Power ON the system and check if POST (Power-On Self-Test) completes successfully.

Precautions:

• Always switch off the power and remove cables before handling components.
• Use an anti-static wrist strap to avoid electrostatic discharge (ESD).
• Handle components by edges; never touch circuitry.
• Maintain proper grounding and avoid metallic contact.
• Organize screws and small parts to prevent misplacement.

Observation Table:

Component Name	Type / Capacity	Slot / Port	Status (Working / Faulty)
Motherboard	ATX / Micro ATX	Cabinet	Working
Processor	Intel Core / AMD	CPU Socket	Working
RAM	8 GB DDR4	DIMM Slot	Working
Hard Disk	500 GB HDD	SATA Port	Working
SMPS	450 W	Cabinet	Working

Result:

Successfully demonstrated the assembling and disassembling of a computer system. Identified and described the function of each hardware component.

Viva Questions:

1. What are the main components inside a system unit?
2. Why is an anti-static wrist strap important?
3. What is the function of the SMPS?
4. Define POST in a computer.
5. What are the differences between HDD and SSD?