Sector : INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

Qualification Title : COMPUTER HARDWARE SERVICING

Unit of Competency : Diagnose and Troubleshoot Computer Systems

and Networks

Module Title : Diagnosing and Troubleshooting Computer Systems

and Networks

Technical Education & Skills Development Authority

KABASALAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay

HOW TO USE THIS MODULE

Welcome to the Module “Diagnose and Troubleshoot Computer

System”. This module contains training materials and activities for you to
complete.

The unit of competency “Diagnose and Troubleshoot Computer

System”” contains knowledge, skills and attitudes required for a Computer
Hardware Servicing NC II course.

You are required to go through a series of learning activities in order to

complete each of the learning outcomes of the module. In each learning
outcome there are Information Sheets, Operation Sheets, and Task Sheets.
Follow these activities on your own and answer the Self-Check at the end of
each learning activity.

If you have questions, don’t hesitate to ask your trainer for assistance.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

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You may already have some of the knowledge and skills covered in this module
because you have:

o been working for some time

o already have completed training in this area.

If you can demonstrate to your teacher that you are competent in a

particular skill or skills, talk to him/her about having them formally recognized
so you don’t have to do the same training again. If you have a qualification or
Certificate of Competency from previous trainings show it to your teacher. If the
skills you acquired are still current and relevant to this module, they may
become part of the evidence you can present for RPL. If you are not sure about
the currency of your skills, discuss it with your teacher.

After completing this module ask your teacher to assess your

competency. Result of your assessment will be recorded in your competency
profile. All the learning activities are designed for you to complete at your own
pace.

Inside this module you will find the activities for you to complete followed
by relevant information sheets for each learning outcome. Each learning
outcome may have more than one learning activity.

MODULE OF INSTRUCTION

Qualification : Computer Hardware Servicing NC II

Unit of Competency : Diagnose & Troubleshoot Computer Systems
Module Title : Diagnose & Troubleshoot Computer Systems
Nominal Duration : ( 100 ) Hrs

Introduction

This module contains information and suggested learning activities on

Computer Hardware Servicing II. It includes training materials and activities for
you to complete.

Completion of this module will help you better understand the

succeeding module on the Maintaining Computer System and Networks.

This module consists of 4 learning outcomes. Each learning outcome

contains learning activities supported by each instruction sheets. Before you

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perform the instructions read the information sheets and answer the self-check
and activities provided to as certain to yourself and your trainer that you have
acquired the knowledge necessary to perform the skill portion of the particular
learning outcome.

Upon completion of this module, report to your trainer for assessment to

check your achievement of knowledge and skills requirement of this module. If
you pass the assessment, you will be given a certificate of completion.

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this module, the trainee/trainee must be able to:

1. Plan and prepare for diagnoses of faults of computer system

2. Diagnose faults of computer system
3. Repair defect of computer system and networks

4. Test system and networks

Learning Outcome #1 Plan and Prepare for Diagnosis of

faults of computer systems

CONTENTS:

- Different types of computer systems error.

- Software as tools for diagnosing computer systems.
- Hand tools and its uses.
- Procedures in diagnosing computer systems
- Safety precautions

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ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:

1. Faults and error of computer system properly determined.

2. Tools (hardware/software) identified in accordance with its uses
and functions.
3. Safety precautions established in accordance with workplace
procedures
CONDITIONS:

The students/trainees must be provided with the following:

 Tools:
- Screw drivers (assorted)
- Pliers (assorted)
- Soldering iron
- Wrenches
- Utility software
- Computer system
 Policies and procedures:
- Procedures and guidelines
- Safety precautions

ASSESSMENT METHOD:
1. Hands on application
2. Direct Observation
3. Practical Demonstration

Learning Activities Special Instructions

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1. Read Information Sheets, Answer self-check and perform the
Operation Sheets and Task activities on the task sheet. Compare
Sheets. answers with the answer key. You are
required to get all answers correct. If not,
read the information sheet again until all
questions are answered correctly.
Perform the activity in the Task Sheet. Be
sure to perfect the Performance Criteria
Checklist. Operation sheet is also
provided for you to practice. Follow the
procedure and perfect the Procedural
Checklist.

After doing all the activities of this

LO1, you are ready to proceed to the next
LO2 on Diagnose faults of computer
system. Good luck!

TECHNICAL TERMS

Fuse – Protect device against power surges

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Firmware – is a combination of hardware and software, it is a program
integrated on a chip.

Defrag – process of reorganizing and rewriting files.

Form factor – a standard size and shape of computer subsystem.

People ware – the person using the computer in the goal of finding solutions to
a better and improved daily life. These can range from basic word
processing to the more advance system programming.

Software – the intangible element composed of programs that instruct

computer what to do.

Electricity – a form of energy comprising certain charge particles, such as

electrons and protons.

Power – is the rate in which electric energy is fed or taken from a device
measured in watts.

Voltage – is the term used to designate electric pressure that exist two points.

PPE – Personal Protective Equipment

BOOT – is the process of turning on the computer unit.

CMOS – Complementary Metal Oxide Semi – conductor

BIOS – Basic Input / Output system

DOS – Disk Operating System

ROM – Read Only Memory

POST – Power on Self Test

DSL – Digital Subscriber Line

UTP Cable – Unshielded Twisted Pair

VGA – Video Graphic Adapter

USB – Universal Serial Bus

OHS – Occupational Health and Safety

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LCD – Liquid Crystal Display

CRT – Cathode Ray Tube

RAM – Random Access Memory

DIMM – Double in line memory module

I/O – Input /Output

INFORMATION SHEET 2.1-1

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Learning Objective:

After reading this INFORMATION SHEET, YOU MUST be able to learn

concepts for planning and preparing for a diagnostic procedure.

Plan and Preparing Diagnostic Procedure

PC Diagnosing

Probably the most frustrating problem computer users run

into are startup problems, where your computer won’t boot.
Equally annoying are error messages you constantly run into
during your computer’s startup process. In this module you
will be given a few tips on how you can avoid some of the most common
problems that happen right after your computer turns on.

Troubleshooting Plan for Personal Computers

How to Troubleshoot the Computer?

Here you will learn the basic troubleshooting methods of your computer.

Trial and error: When you find a faulty component in your computer, check it
with the other computers so that you can make sure whether the fault is in the
component or not.

Check cables: In case of any device failure, check all the cables of your
computer such as data cables, power cable, internal circuitry cables and make
sure that all these are plugged in and working fine.

Hardware settings: Check the hardware settings in the CMOS and in the device
manager of the system and make all the device drivers are up to date and all the
cards are plugged in properly.

Notice changes: When you notice a software or hardware error in your

computer, determine what was changed before the problem occurred

Event viewer: In the event viewer, you will find the error or warning messages
associated with any faulty hardware or software.

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Sample of Diagnostic Plan:

List down all possible components to be checked based on the symptoms.

Components Good Defective Remedy

AC outlet

AVR

AVR fuse

Monitor Power Cable

Power Supply

Common Trouble for Computer Units

1. Double check the power connections.

2. Voltage Regulator and power supply could cause power failure in the
computer unit.
3. Check the power cords and cable connectors in your computer unit.
4. Unseated card. Loose card could cause it to malfunction.
5. Do you have ink or toners in your printer? Check the toner/
cartridges in your printers.
6. Check the boot sequence configuration in the advance BIOS (Basic
Input / Output Unit) setup.

Diagnosing Network Connection:

1. First check the cable connecting to the network card into the network
hub.
2. Check the back of the computer to see if the network card light is on
3. Check the network cable
4. Check the network HUB.

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 OPERATION SHEET 2.1-1

Title : DIAGNOSE A COMPUTER POWER SUPPLY

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Performance Objective: In doing the operation, you should be able to install
hardware following the correct procedure.

Supplies / Materials: Bond paper, Ruler, Pencil/Eraser, Multi-tester Philip

screw driver.

Equipment: Computer unit

Steps / Procedure:
Create a diagnostic plan for troubleshooting a power supply with the use
of the following tools, materials and equipment.

Assessment Method:

Procedural Checklist

PROCEDURAL CHECKLIST

Task Sheet 2.1-1

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 CRITERIA RATING

Sequence of steps in diagnosing is followed 20%

Observance of safety precautions. 20%

Appropriate tools are used in diagnosing. 30%

Creating a diagnostic plan for troubleshooting 30%

INFORMATION SHEET 2.1-2

Tools for Testing computer System

Learning Objective:

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 After reading this INFORMATION SHEET, YOU will learn what tools to
use for testing computer system are.

Introduction

Tools and equipment play a vital role in troubleshooting; it helps the user
to determine the errors found in your computer hardware and network.

Tools used to test hardware problems:

 Screw Drivers - is used to install and remove

screws in your computer unit.

 Pliers and Tweezers - are used for picking

small parts in your computer unit.

 Soldering Iron – is primarily used for

connecting terminals in your power supply and
circuit board with the use of a soldering lead.

 Anti – static wrist strap, mat and spray – are used to eliminate
electrostatic discharge in your work area.

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  Lens Cleaner – is used for cleaning optical media,
such as DVD-ROM, CD writer.

 Thermal Paste – is a paste used for heat

dissipation for your processor.

Network Troubleshooting Tools

1. LAN Tester – is a device used to test the network connection

2. Crimping tool-is a device used to crimp the RJ45 connector to the UPT
cable.

SELF CHECK 2.1-2

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Place your answer on your notebook:

1. Enumerate the six tools used for troubleshooting.

A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.

2. Enumerate the two network troubleshooting tools.

A.
B.

Answer Key 2.1-2

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 1. Tool for trouble shooting.
 Screw drivers
 Pliers and tweezers
 Soldering iron
 Anti-static wrist strap
 Lens cleaners
 Thermal paste

2. Tools for network troubleshooting.

 LAN tester
 Cramping tool

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LEARNING OUTCOME 2

DIAGNOSE AND TROUBLESHOOT COMPUTER SYSTEM

Contents:

 Safety procedures
 Basic computer configuration set-up
 System’s specifications
 Identifying common symptoms and problems associated with each
devices
 Troubleshooting and isolating PC hardware problems
 Diagnosing and troubleshooting hardware conflicts
 Knowledge in installing peripherals, network devices and other I/O
devices

Condition:

The students/trainees must be provided with the following:

 Personal Protective equipment (ex protective eyewear, anti- static
wrist trap
 Electronic laboratory hand tools (assorted pliers, assorted screw
drivers, soldering iron, desoldering tool)
 LAN tester
 Crimping tools
 RS 232 pin exertion / extraction tool
 Flashlights
 Device drivers, operating system
 Appropriate software application programs
 Diagnostic software or utilities
 Hand-outs

Assessment Methods:

 Hands-on
 Direct observation
 Practical demonstration

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 Learning Activities Special Instruction

1. Read Information sheet, Answer self-check and perform the

Operation sheets and task activities on the task sheet. Compare
sheets. answer with the answer key. You are
required to get all answer correct. If not
read information sheet again until all
questions are answered correctly.

Perform the activity in the Task sheet. Be

sure to perfect the performance Criteria
checklist.

Operation sheet is also provided for you

to practice. Follow the procedure and
perfect the procedural checklist.

After doing the activities of the LO, you

are ready to proceed to the next LO on
Diagnose and Troubleshoot computer
systems and network.

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 INFORMATION SHEET 2.1-3
Personal Protective Equipment

Learning Objectives: After reading this INFORMATION SHEETS, the trainees

will know how important Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the workplace.

Personal Protective Equipment includes.

1. Safety Precautions
2. Preventive Maintenance
3. Protective Devices
4. Accident Report

Safety Precaution

- Proper preparation is the key to a successful built. Before you begin,

make sure that you have the tool you will need and secure a clear well-lit
workplace. Gather all the components you’ll be using and unpack them
at the same time. Find a dry, well-ventilated place to do your work, you
should choose an area without carpets, because it tends to create static
electricity. Always keep in mind that personal protection is one of the
traits of a good technician.

Preventive Maintenance

- Maintenance is keeping something in working order. It includes repair,

testing, adjusting and replacing parts of a computer or a peripheral.

Types of Preventive Maintenance

1. Active
2. Passive

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 Active –this is carried out before problems develop in a computer unit.
Passive – this is carried after problems have developed in the computer
unit.

Personal Protective Devices

1. Anti-Static Device
2. Power Surge Protector Devices

Anti-Static Device

- These are the devices used to protect computer unit from electro
static discharge.

 Anti-static Wrist Strap

 Anti-Static Mat

 Anti-Static Bag

Power Surge Protector Devices:

An appliance designed to protect electrical devices from voltage

spikes. A surge protector attempts to regulate the voltage supplied to an
electric device by either blocking or by shorting to ground voltage above a safe
threshold.
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  Automatic Voltage Regulators (AVR)

 Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

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Accident Reports:

Forms used to give specific details with regards to the accidents happen
in the laboratory during experiments.
Form No. Date:
Accident Report Form

Rm.#

Name : Yr/Sec.

Type of Injury Cause of injury Remedy

Accident reports contain the following details:

Name of the person injured

Date and time of the accident
Type of injury
First aid given
Action taken to prevent further accident

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Submitted by:

NFORMATION SHEET 2.1-4

Techniques for Diagnosing Computer system

Objectives:

Techniques for diagnosing Computer System

1. Computer Diagnosis
2. Rules in diagnosing Computer system
3. Factors causing Computer Failures and Defects
4. Problem Isolation
5. Component Isolation

Computer diagnosis

Sometimes when the problem with a system is not totally apparent and
the problem may be intermittent, using a basic common diagnostic procedure
may help determine what is wrong. This procedure has a number of steps that
if followed each time, can be of help.

Rules in Diagnosing Computer System

1. Know the facts

 Educate oneself on all aspect and operation of

computer parts
 Continuous learning on computer technology.

2. Use your common sense

3. Focus on Field Replaceable Units
 Identify the different types of FRU that can be used for
replacement or subassembly.

4. Proper assembly and disassembly

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Factors Causing Computer Failures and Defects

1. People ware – untrained personnel would probably

damage programs in PC
2. Firmware – Programs or software burnt in chips may be corrupted.
3. Software – Corrupted operating system would cause the system to fail.
4. Hardware – Defective hardware component would lead to computer
malfunction.
5. Static (ESD) – electro static discharge can easily damage
sensitive components in your computer
6. Electricity – Incoming supply from AC outlet must be regulated; power
surges can damage computer units.

Problem Isolation

Problem Isolation is a detective work in which you need to determine

what is out of the ordinary by making detailed observation of what is not
working normally and record any information as you proceed. The information
you will be able to gather will help diagnose your computer. You need to serve
wisely. Look for any abnormalities in the unit any change in smell or foreign
smell, listen to all the sound and error codes.

Component Isolation

This section will aid in determining component in your system which are
failing. First, most system have 3 major components; monitor, system unit,
and printers. Some have multiple external devices. To troubleshoot, you need
to isolate major components which are failing to operate.

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 OPERATION SHEET 2.1-4

Title : Faulty Connection of Computer Peripherals

Performance Objective: In doing the operation, you should be able to correct

faulty connection of computer peripherals.

Supplies / Materials : System unit, Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, Printer

Power plugs, AVR

Equipment : Computer Unit

Steps / Procedure:

Given with the different equipment, diagnose and identify common

connection errors messages and symptoms in computer system.

Assessment Method:

Procedural Checklist

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 Procedural Checklist

OPERATION SHEET 2.1-4

CRITERIA Rating

1. Sequence of steps in diagnosing is followed. 40%

2. Observance of safety precautions. 20%

3. Standard procedures in diagnosing are performed 40%

100%

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LEARNING OUTCOME 3
REPAIR DEFECTS IN COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND NETWORKS

CONTENT:
 Proper repairing / replacing procedure of different
components
 Wiring Techniques
 Power supplies
 Determining defective components
 Basic networking

Assessment Criteria:

1. Defective component properly replaced and corrected

2. Error in networks clearly identified and repaired in line with standard
procedure
3. Defective component identified and separated to other component

CONDITION:

The students/trainees must be provided with the following

 Tools:
- Screw driver (assorted)
- Pliers (assorted)
- Soldering iron
- Wrenches
- Utility software
- Crimping tools
 Computer System:
- Server
- Workstations
- Printer
 Policies and Procedures:
- Procedure and guidelines
 Testing devices:
- Multi-tester
- Oscilloscope

ASSESSMENT METHOD:
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  Hands-on
 Direct observation
 Practical demonstration

Learning Activities Special Instructions

1. Read Information sheet, Answer self-check and perform the

Operation Sheets and Task activities on the task sheet. Compare
Sheet
answer with the answer key. You are
required to get all answer correct. If
not read information sheet again until
all questions are answered correctly.

Perform the activity in the Task sheet.

Be sure to perfect the performance
Criteria checklist.

Operation sheet is also provided for

you to practice. Follow the procedure
and perfect the procedural checklist.

After doing the activities of the LO, you

are ready to proceed to the next LO on
Diagnose and Troubleshoot computer
systems and network.

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 INFORMATION SHEET 3.1-1
Proper Replacement of Components / Parts

Computer Parts Replacement

Replacing computer parts and peripherals you need to consider the

following factors:

1. Compatibility of the component or part

2. Consider the component specification
3. Components from factor

 Compatibility of the Component

When replacing computer parts you should check if it is compatible with

your unit. Double check on your computer manual if the component you
are replacing is compatible or not with the unit because this lead to
system crash.

 Component specification

This focuses on the specification of the component. Check if the voltage

rating, current rating, memory size and frequency match your computer
unit.

 Form Factor

The components’ manufacturer should be considered. Check if the unit

you are trying to repair or upgrade is generic or branded units, Branded
units have their own set of components compatible only to their units,
while genetic types can be used only to generic type of units.

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List of Components Commonly Replaced in a Computer System

 Memory – is technically any form of electronic storage; it is used most

often to identify fast, temporary forms of storage. It is commonly called
RAM (Random Access Memory)

 Video Cards – is also referred to as a graphic accelerator, is an item of

personal computer hardware whose function is to generate and output
images to a display.

 Network Interface Card - is also known as LAN card. A PC interface to

network cabling. It is a piece of computer hardware designed to allow
computers to communicate over a computer network.

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  Hard Disk Drive – is fixed computer storage medium.

 Motherboard – is also known as the main board. It contains circuits

that performs various function

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  Processor – is also known as CPU or the Central Processing Unit

General Safety Tips and Reminders:

- Observe good housekeeping in the area of the machines during and

after maintenance.
- Place removed covers and other parts in a safe place away from the
personnel, while you are servicing the machine.

Dress for the Job

- Keep your tool case away from walk areas so that other people will
not trip over it.
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 - Do not wear loose clothing that can be trapped in the moving parts
of a machine.
- Ensure that your sleeves are fastened or rolled up above your
elbows.
- If your hair is long, use hair net or hair cap.
- Insert the end of your necktie or scarf inside clothing or fasten it
with a non-conductive clip, approximately 3 inches from the end.
- Do not wear jewelry chains, metal-frame eyeglasses, or metal
fasteners for your clothing.

Note: Metal objects are good conductors

After service, reinstall all safety shields, guards, labels and ground wires.
Replace any safety devices that is worn out or defective. Finally, reinstall all
covers correctly before returning the unit to the customer.

Electrical Safety

Electric current from power, telephone and communication cables can be

hazardous. To avoid personal injury or equipment damage, disconnect the
attached power cords, telecommunications systems, networks and modems
before you open the server/workstation covers, unless instructed otherwise in
the installation and configuration procedure.

Precautions

Disconnect all power before:

 Performing a mechanical inspection
 Working near power supplies
 Removing or installing main units
Before starting work on the machine, unplug the power cord.
Never assume that power has been disconnected from a circuit. First
check that it has been powered-off.
Always look carefully for possible hazards in your work
 Moist floors
 Non-grounded power extension cables
 Power surges.
If an electrical accident occurs:
 Use caution
 Switch off power

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  Send another person to get medical aid

Safety Inspection Guide

1. These steps will help you to identify potentially unsafe conditions on

these products.
 Check exterior covers for damage (loose, broken, or sharp
edges)
 Power off computer. Disconnect the power cord
 The power cord should be the appropriate type.
 Insulation on the power cord must not be frayed or worn out.
 Remove the cover.
 Check for any obvious alteration. Use good judgment as to
the safety of any alterations.
 Check that the power supply cover fasteners (screws or
rivets) have not been removed or tampered with.

Self Check 3.1-1

Place your answer on your notebook.

1. Give the functions of each component.

 Memory
 Video card
 NIC
 Motherboard
 HDD

2. Factors to consider when replacing a component.

1.

2.

3.

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 Answer Key 3.1-1

1.
A. Memory - is used most often to indentify fast, temporary
forms of storage.
B. Video Card – is an item of personal computer hardware
whose function is to generate and output images to a display.
C. Network Interface Card – it is a piece of computer hardware designed
to allow computers to communicate over a computer network.
D. Motherboard – is also known as the main board. It contains circuits
that perform various functions.

2. Replacing computer parts and peripherals you need to consider the

following factors.

a. Compatibility of the component or part

b. Consider the component specification
c. Components from factor

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 INFORMATION SHEET 3.1-2
Adjustments, Modifications and Upgrading

Upgrading your computer Components:

To upgrade means to change some parts with faster and better

performing one. These parts may be even cost less and more powerful.

Commonly Upgrade Computer Parts:

 Monitors – replace old CRT monitor to new LCD monitors.

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  Optical Drives – old CD-ROM drives are commonly replace with DVD-
ROM and DVD writers.

 Hard Drives – small capacity hard drives are replaced with faster and
high capacity hard drives.

Keyboards and Mouse – keyboards and mouse are commonly replaced with
optical mouse and wireless keyboards.

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RAM (Random Access Memory) – upgrading the computer’s memory or RAM
speeds up the performance of the computer.

Video Cards – upgrade computer’s graphics card to improve the computer

performance in terms of graphics and games.

Processors – replacing the processors increase the data processing speed.

Modem – installing a modem enables your computer to connect to the internet.

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How to Speed up the Computer.

1. Defragmenter Utility – Automatically analyzes the empty disk space on

the hard disk and defrags all scattered files.

2. Shutdown Unnecessary Programs – Close all unwanted programs at the

Windows start up and this will automatically increases the windows loading
time and speed of the computer will also be increased.

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3. Increase Memory – increasing the memory in the system will result to
exceptional speed of your computer.

Disk Cleanup – you can delete unwanted programs and files from your
computer and this will be helpful increasing the speed.

4. Empty Recycle Bin: Delete all the files and folders from the recycle bin you
will get space of drive C: for reusability.

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 OPERATION SHEET 3.1-2

Title : Hardware Upgrade

Performance Objective: In doing the operation, you should be able to upgrade

Network Card.

Supplies / Materials : Philip Screw Driver, Anti-static Wrist Strap, Anti Static
Mat

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Equipment: Computer Unit

Steps / Procedure:

Given the tools and materials, upgrade by installing a network card.

Assessment Method:

Procedural Checklist

Procedural Checklist
OPERATION SHEET 3.1-2

Rating
Criteria

1. Observance of Safety precautions 30%

2. Appropriate tools are used in upgrading 30%

3. Necessary improvement and adjustment are 40%

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 done in terms of upgrading.

Self Check 3.1-2

1. Enumerate the commonly upgraded computer parts.

2. Enumerate the 6 steps to speed up your computer.

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 Answer key 3.1-2

1. Enumerate the commonly upgraded computer parts.

- Monitor
- Optical drives
- Hard drives
- Keyboard and Mouse

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 2. Enumerate the 6 steps to speed up your computer.

- Defragmenter utility
- Shutdown Unnecessary programs
- Increase Memory
- Disk Cleanup
- Empty Recycle Bin

Learning Outcome 4

TEST SYSTEM AND NETWORKS

CONTENTS:

- Guidelines for testing computer system

- Advance networking
- Computer system operation
- Digital electronics
- Communications

ASSESSMENT CRITERIA:
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 1. Computer systems and networks are tested in accordance with the
job requirements.
2. Information is shared from one computer to another as primary
requirement in computer networking.
3. Reports are prepared and completed according to the company
requirements.

CONDITION:

The students/trainees must be provided with the following:

 Computer system:
- Server
- Workstations
- Printers
 Policies and procedures:
- Procedures and guidelines for testing
 Testing devices:
- Network cable tester
- Hubs
 Others:
- Papers (for report generation)
- AC line (to supply power)

ASSESSMENT METHOD:
 Hands-on
 Direct observation
 Practical demonstration

Learning Activities Special Instructions

1. Read Information sheet, Answer self-check and perform the

Operation Sheets and Task activities on the task sheet. Compare
Sheet answer with the answer key. You are
required to get all answer correct. If
not read information sheet again until
all questions are answered correctly.

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 Perform the activity in the Task sheet.
Be sure to perfect the performance
Criteria checklist.

Operation sheet is also provided for

you to practice. Follow the procedure
and perfect the procedural checklist.

After doing the activities of the LO4,

you are ready to proceed to the next
LO5 on Diagnose and Troubleshoot
computer systems and network.

INFORMATION SHEET 4.1-1

Testing Computer system

Three major Components of Computer System:

 Hardware
 Software
 Firmware

Test Your Hardware

 Checking your computer hardware and its peripherals.

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 1. Computer Monitor and its peripherals
Monitor and interface cables
Video card
Monitor power cable

Interface Cables

Video Cards Monitor Power

Cable

2. Keyboard and Mouse

 Keyboard connector
 Mouse connector

Keyboard Connector

Mouse Connector

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 3. I/O port and devices
 Connection between the I/O port and the peripheral device
 A faulty cable between the I/O port and the peripheral device
 A faulty peripheral device
 Incorrect setting in the System Setup program
 Incorrect settings in the system’s configuration files
 Faulty I/O port logic on the system board

Serial Port I/O Circuit Board

Parallel Port

4. Power Supply
 Power cord
 Fuse

Fuse

Power Supply

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Testing Your Software

 Check the different software installed in the computer

1. Operating system
 Run live updates for your operating system to get the latest
patches and protection for your OS.
 Run registry scanner to check the OS registry configuration

2. Application Software
 Check for live updates.

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 3. Anti-virus software
 Run anti-virus program
 Check for virus signature updates
 Check for spyware updates

Test Your Firmware

Firmware – a combination of hardware and software integrated on a chip.

How do you test your firmware?

Example: Check for the correct configuration on your firmware, you can
accomplish this by configuring the BIOS in the computer.

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 Sample Accomplishment Report Form

Task to be accomplished Status

Hardware component testing Working Properly Not working properly

Software Testing Status

Working Properly Not working properly

OPERATION SHEET 4.1-1

Title : Testing a Computer Unit

Performance Objective:

In doing the operation, you should be able to test a computer unit.

Supplies / Materials:

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 Multi-tester, Screw driver, bond paper, ruler and pencil

Steps / Procedure:

Hardware Testing and Documentation

Test the following computer peripherals and equipment with the use of the
tools provider. Document your testing with the use of an accomplishment
form.

Assigned Task Condition

Hardware component testing Working Not working

properties

Computer monitor

Power supply

Keyboard

Mouse

Assessment Methods:

Procedural checklist

OPERATION SHEET 4.1-1

Criteria Rating

1. Sequence of steps in testing is followed 20%

2. Observance of Safety precautions. 20%

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 3. Appropriate tools are used in testing 30%

4. Creating an accomplishment report 30%

INFORMATION SHEET 4.1-2

Enumerating Unpredicted Event

Error Beep Codes

When a PC is first switched ON or RESET it performs a special

diagnostic test called a POST (Power-On Self Test), to check all of the
components in the PC the POST program sends out a signal to each device
initializing each device’s built-in self test procedure.
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The POST test is a two stage process:

1. First it will check all the basic components including among other things
the system clock, the processor, RAM, the keyboard controller and the
Video Card.

2. After the video card has been tested the BIOS will then indicate any error
encountered by displacing either a numeric code or a text message on the
screen.

When a device fails the first part of the POST, the BIOS will send a
series of beeps from the PC’s speaker (internal) to inform the PC user
that there is a problem; these beeps are coded allowing the user to
diagnose the troublesome component. When the POST has been
completed successfully the PC will make a short beep to let the user
know everything is it should be.

Three Major Brands of BIOS Chips:

1. AWARD BIOS
2. Phoenix BIOS
3. AMI BIOS

Note each type of BIOS has its own error codes:

AMI BIOS ERROR BEEP CODES

Beep Codes Error Message Solutions

1 beep Memory refresh failure Check memory

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 2 beeps Memory parity error Check memory

3 beeps Memory read/write error Check memory

Motherboard timer not

4 beeps Replace motherboard
functioning

5 beeps Processor error Replace processor

Gate A20/keyboard
6 beeps Replace motherboard
controller failure

Processor exception
7 beeps Replace motherboard
interrupt

Display memory
8 beeps Replace video card
read/write failure

Replace BIOS
9 beeps ROM checksum error
chip/Motherboard

CMOS shutdown Replace BIOS

10 beeps
read/write error chip/Motherboard

11 beeps Bad cache memory Replace cache memory

Phoenix BIOS ERROR BEEP CODES

Phoenix BIOS beep codes are a series of beeps separated by a pause, for
example: beep ---beep beep ----beep beep would be 1-2-1-1

Beep Codes Error Message Solutions

1-1-4-1 Check cache memory

Cache error

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 1-2-2-3 BIOS ROM Checksum Check BIOS ROM

1-3-1-1 DRAM test rate Check DRAM

Keyboard controller test Check keyboard

1-3-1-3
controller

1-3-4-1 RAM failure Check memory

RAM failure data bits of

1-3-4-3 Check memory
low memory bus

RAM failure data bits of

1-4-1-1 Check memory
high memory bus

2-1-2-3 ROM copyright notice Check ROM

Test for unexpected Replace BIOS

2-2-3-1
interrupt chip/Motherboard

AWARD BIOS ERROR BEEP CODES

Beep Codes Error Message Solutions

One long beep and two

Video card error Replace video card
short beeps

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 Reset RAM, check other
Two short beeps Non-fatal error
components

OPERATION SHEET 4.1-2

Title : Error Codes

Performance Objective:

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 In doing the operation, you should be able to test a computer unit.

Supplies / Materials:

Screw drivers, anti-static wrist strap

Steps / Procedure:

Memory Error Codes

Given the tools and equipment, identify the memory error code by removing
the memory module in the computer unit.

Assessment Methods:

Procedural checklist

OPERATION SHEET 4.1-1

Criteria Rating

1. Observance of Safety precautions. 30%

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 2. Appropriate tools are used in testing 30%

3. Indentifying the error code. 40%

SELF CHECK 4.1-2

Answer the following questions.

1. What does the acronym POST stand for?

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 2. Three types of BIOS chip? Enumerate the three common
brands of BIOS Chip?

3. Identify the following error codes:

 1-2-2-3
 1-3-4-1
 2-1-2-3
 1-1-4-1
 1-3

ANSWER KEY 4.1-2

1. POST – Power On Self Test

2. BIOS Brands
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  AMI
 AWARD
 Phoenix

3. Identify the Error Code:

 1-2-2-3 = BIOS ROM checksum

 1-3-4-1 = RAM Failure

 2-1-2-3= ROM copyright notice

 1-1-4-1 = Cache error

 1-3-1-1 = DRAM fresh rate

Institutional Competency Assessment

(Troubleshoot and Diagnose Computer Systems and Networks)

1. Enumerate the six tools used for troubleshooting.

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 2. Enumerate the two network troubleshooting tools.

3. Give the functions of each component.

a. Memory
b. Video Card
c. NIC
d. Motherboard
e. HDD

4. Factors to consider when replacing a component

5. What does the acronym of POST stand for?

6. Three types of BIOS chip? Enumerate the three common brand of BIOS
chips.

7. Identify the following error codes:

a. 1-2-2-3
b. 1-3-4-1
c. 2-1-2-3
d. 1-1-4-1
e. 1

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