Computer hardware and maintenance
Computer hardware and maintenance
HARDWARE
AND
MAINTENANCE
PRESENTED BY
o HIMANI
o HIMANSHI SAHU
o ISHA
o MAHAK GUPTA
o MANJU KUMARI
o MANSI
Unit-4 syllabus
PRINTERS
Printers are devices that
produce physical copies of
digital documents, images, or
graphics on paper or other
media. They convert electronic
data from computers or other
devices into a tangible format.
TYPES OF PRINTERS
Multifunction printers (MFPs) are devices that combine multiple printing functionalities
into a single unit. Typically, they integrate several features, such as:
1.Printing: Produces documents in color or black and white
2.Scanning: Captures digital images of documents and photos.
3.Copying: Makes duplicate copies of documents.
4.Faxing: Sends and receives fax transmissions, though this feature is less common in
newer models.
Dot matrix printers
corrections
• Fax are not sending or • Verify the phone line • Clear jams , clean
receiving correctly . connections and fax rollers , and load
• Copies are dare , light , settings . paper correctly .
or have lines across • Inspect the scanner and • Clean the scanner
them . rollers for dirt or wear glass and properly
• Occurs during printing . align the document .
or copying • Inspects the paper path • Clean the scanner ,
and check for any replace worn parts ,
obstructions . and adjust quality
settings .
Display devices
Display devices are hardware components that
present visual information to users. They
convert electronic signals into images, text, and
videos, allowing people to interact with
computers, televisions, smartphones, and other
electronic devices.
Monitor and its type
monitors
Monitors are output devices that display
visual information from a computer or other
electronic devices. They serve as the
primary interface for users to interact with
software, view content, and perform tasks ..
Monitors are used in various
environments, including homes, offices,
and creative studios, and are essential for
tasks ranging from basic computing to
high-end graphics work and gaming.
Types of monitors
There are several types of monitors, each utilizing different technologies and suited for various applications.
Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
1. LCD Monitors (Liquid Crystal Display)
•TN (Twisted Nematic): Fast response times, good for gaming, but limited viewing angles and color accuracy.
•IPS (In-Plane Switching): Better color accuracy and wider viewing angles, ideal for graphic design and
photo editing.
•VA (Vertical Alignment): Good contrast ratios and decent color reproduction, suitable for multimedia
consumption.
2. LED Monitors
•A type of LCD monitor that uses LED backlighting. They can be further divided into:
• Edge-lit LED: LEDs are placed around the edges of the screen, allowing for thinner designs.
• Full-array LED: LEDs are placed behind the entire screen for better brightness and contrast control.
3. OLED Monitors (Organic Light Emitting Diode)
•Each pixel emits its own light, resulting in deep blacks, high contrast ratios, and vibrant colors.
They are often used in high-end TVs and monitors.
4. Curved Monitors
•These can be either LCD or LED and feature a curved screen to enhance immersion and reduce
glare. They are popular for gaming and immersive experiences.
5. Ultra-Wide Monitors
•Typically with a 21:9 or wider aspect ratio, these monitors provide a larger horizontal workspace,
ideal for multitasking and gaming.
6. 4K and 8K Monitors
•Monitors with ultra-high-definition resolutions (3840x2160 for 4K, 7680x4320 for 8K) for detailed
visuals, suitable for gaming, video editing, and professional design.
7. Touchscreen Monitors
•Allow for direct interaction with the screen through touch, used in various applications from kiosks
to tablets.
8. Gaming Monitors
•Designed specifically for gamers, they feature high refresh rates (144Hz, 240Hz), low response times, and
adaptive sync technologies (like G-Sync or FreeSync).
9. Professional Monitors
•High-end monitors tailored for specific professional needs, such as color accuracy for graphic design,
photography, or video editing.
Display adapter cards, commonly known as graphics cards or video cards, are hardware
components that manage and enhance the visual output of a computer. They convert digital
data from the computer's CPU into signals that can be displayed on a monitor. Here are some
key aspects of display adapter cards:
•Integrated Graphics: Built into the CPU or motherboard, suitable for basic tasks and light
gaming. They share system memory and are less powerful than dedicated graphics cards.
•Alphanumeric Keys: These include letters (A-Z), numbers (0-9), and punctuation symbols. These are used for
typing text and interacting with applications.
•Modifier Keys: Keys like Shift, Ctrl (Control), Alt (Alternate), and the Windows/Command key allow for complex
input when pressed in combination with other keys. For example, Ctrl + C is used to copy text.
Function Keys: The keys F1 to F12 (located at the top of the keyboard) serve different purposes
in various programs or operating systems. For instance, F1 often opens the help menu, while F5 is
commonly used to refresh a page or window.
•Arrow Keys: These allow navigation through documents, menus, and interfaces. They are
crucial for tasks such as scrolling, moving the cursor, and selecting items.
•Enter/Return: The Enter key is used to submit input, initiate commands, or move to a new line
in text editing.
•Special/Additional Keys: Modern keyboards may include keys like "Caps Lock" for
capitalization, "Tab" for tabulation, "Delete" for deleting content, "Home," "End," "Page Up,"
"Page Down," and others for navigation.
•Numeric Keypad: On full-size keyboards, there is often a dedicated set of numeric keys
arranged similarly to a calculator for ease of entering numbers.
Types of keyboard
1. Mechanical Keyboards
•Description: Feature individual mechanical switches under each key, providing tactile
feedback and a distinct feel.
•Advantages: Durable, customizable (variety of switch types), and often preferred by gamers
and typists for their responsiveness.
2. Membrane Keyboards
•Description: Use a pressure pad system beneath the keys, with a flexible membrane that
registers keystrokes.
•Advantages: Generally quieter, more affordable, and can be spill-resistant, but they lack the
tactile feedback of mechanical keyboards.
3.Rubber Dome Keyboards
•Description: Similar to membrane keyboards but use rubber domes that collapse to register a
key press.
•Advantages: Cost-effective and quiet, but they can wear out more quickly and may not
provide the same typing experience as mechanical keyboards.
4. Chiclet Keyboards
•Description: Feature flat, square keys that have a gap between them, making it easier to clean
and preventing dust accumulation.
•Advantages: Commonly found in laptops; they provide a modern aesthetic and are generally
quiet.
5. Wireless Keyboards
•Description: Connect to devices via Bluetooth or a wireless USB receiver, eliminating the
need for cables.
•Advantages: Increased mobility and reduced desk clutter; they can be either mechanical or
membrane.
6.Gaming Keyboards
•Description: Designed specifically for gaming, often featuring mechanical switches,
customizable backlighting, and programmable keys.
•Advantages: Enhanced performance for gamers, including features like anti-ghosting and
macros for improved gameplay.
7. Ergonomic Keyboards
•Description: Designed to reduce strain on the hands and wrists, often featuring a split layout
or curved design.
•Advantages: Promotes a more natural hand position, helping to prevent repetitive strain
injuries
.
8. Flexible Keyboards
•Description: Made from silicone or rubber, allowing them to be rolled up or bent.
•Advantages: Portable and easy to clean, making them suitable for travel and messy
environments.
Mouse and its type
A mouse is a small handheld input device used to interact with a computer. It typically consists of two buttons (left
and right) and a scroll wheel, although some mice may have additional buttons for extra functions. The mouse
works by detecting movement over a flat surface, which is translated into cursor movement on the computer
screen.
types of mouse
There are several types of computer mice, each designed for different uses and technologies. Here’s a brief overview of the main
types:
1. Mechanical Mouse
•Description: Older style of mouse with a ball underneath that detects movement by rolling on a surface.
•How it works: The ball rolls as the mouse is moved, and sensors inside the mouse detect the direction and speed of the ball's
movement to move the cursor.
•Pros: Simple design, inexpensive.
•Cons: The ball can get dirty and affect accuracy, and it's less precise than modern mice.
2. Optical Mouse
•Description: Uses optical sensors (LED light) to detect movement on a surface.
•How it works: The optical sensor captures the surface's texture and movement, sending data to the computer.
•Pros: More precise than mechanical mice, no moving parts (no ball to clean).
•Cons: Works best on certain surfaces (like mouse pads); less accurate on reflective or transparent surfaces.
3. Laser Mouse
•Description: Similar to the optical mouse but uses laser technology instead of LED light.
•How it works: The laser sensor provides higher precision by detecting more detail on the surface.
•Pros: Works on almost any surface, including glass. Very high sensitivity and precision.
•Cons: Typically more expensive than optical mice, can be over-sensitive for some users.
4. Wireless Mouse
•Description: A mouse that does not require a physical cable to connect to the computer.
•How it works: Uses radio frequency (RF) or Bluetooth to communicate wirelessly with the computer.
•Pros: More freedom of movement, reduces cable clutter.
•Cons: Requires batteries (or charging), may experience occasional lag or interference.
5. Wired Mouse
•Description: A traditional mouse that is physically connected to the computer using a cable.
•How it works: The mouse sends data through the cable to the computer.
•Pros: No need for batteries or charging, usually more responsive with no wireless interference.
•Cons: Limited by the length of the cable, can be cumbersome with too many cables.
Keyboard and mouse interface
The Interaction Between Keyboard and Mouse in a Computer System
Together, the keyboard and mouse form the primary means of input for interacting with a computer system. The
operating system and applications rely on both devices to provide a smooth and intuitive user experience.
•Mouse Control: The mouse is used to control the pointer, move it across the screen, and interact with visual
elements. Clicking on icons, dragging windows, or selecting text are all mouse functions.
•Keyboard Input: The keyboard is used for entering text, issuing commands, and navigating menus through
shortcuts. For example, pressing Ctrl + C copies selected text, and Ctrl + V pastes it. Keyboard shortcuts can save
time by eliminating the need to use the mouse for these tasks.
•Text Editing: In word processors, the user types with the keyboard but often uses the mouse to select text, move the
cursor to a different location, or format content (e.g., bold, italic, underline).
•Gaming: In video games, the keyboard might control character movement (e.g., using WASD keys) and menu
navigation, while the mouse is used to aim, shoot, or interact with game elements.
•Graphic Design and Image Editing: Software like Adobe Photoshop relies on both the keyboard and mouse. The
keyboard might be used for shortcuts (e.g., pressing Ctrl + Z to undo), while the mouse manipulates images by
clicking, dragging, and resizing objects.
Ergonomics and Accessibility in Keyboard and Mouse Design
Ergonomics:
Both the keyboard and mouse can contribute to repetitive stress injuries (RSI) if used improperly for long periods.
Ergonomic designs for both devices aim to minimize discomfort and strain.
•Ergonomic Keyboards: These keyboards feature curved layouts or split designs to reduce strain on the hands and
wrists.
•Ergonomic Mice: Designed to fit the natural shape of the hand, ergonomic mice help reduce wrist strain and
promote a more natural grip.
Accessibility:
The keyboard and mouse also play a significant role in accessibility. Operating systems and applications offer a
variety of features to help users with disabilities:
•Keyboard Shortcuts: Many users with limited mobility rely on keyboard shortcuts to navigate their systems more
efficiently.
•On-Screen Keyboards: For those who cannot physically use a standard keyboard or mouse, on-screen keyboards
provide an alternative means of typing.
•Mouse Alternatives: Devices such as trackballs, touchpads, and specialized mice can provide more accessible
input methods.
Scanner and its types
A scanner is a device that converts physical documents, images, or objects into digital formats that can be processed,
stored, edited, or transmitted by a computer. The scanning process involves capturing light reflected from the
document or object and converting it into an electronic signal, which is then used to create a digital image or file. This
technology has revolutionized how we digitize physical media, making it easier to store and share information in a
digital format.
Scanners are commonly used in office settings for tasks such as digitizing printed documents, creating digital copies
of photographs, and processing forms. Over time, various types of scanners have been developed, each optimized for
specific uses, such as document scanning, image scanning, or 3D scanning.
Types of Scanners
There are several types of scanners designed for specific tasks. Below is an overview of the main types of scanners
and their unique characteristics
. Flatbed Scanners
A flatbed scanner is one of the most common types of scanners used for general-purpose document and image
scanning. It consists of a flat glass surface where documents or images are placed, and a moving scanning head that
passes over the document to capture the image.
•Advantages:
• High-quality scans
• Flexible scanning of a wide range of materials (e.g., photos, thick books, fragile documents)
• Ability to scan larger formats (A4, A3, etc.)
2. Sheetfed Scanners
A sheetfed scanner is designed to scan documents automatically, one page at a time, through a feeder. Unlike a
flatbed scanner, which requires you to manually place each document on a glass surface, a sheetfed scanner has a
document feeder that pulls sheets into the scanner for fast and efficient processing
•Advantages:
•Faster document processing
•Automatic document feeding
•Compact design for office use
3. Drum Scanners
A drum scanner is a high-end, professional-grade scanner used for scanning high-resolution images, such as those
required for commercial printing or advanced photography. Drum scanners are capable of extremely high-quality
scans with exceptional color accuracy and detail.
•Advantages:
•Superior image quality
•High dynamic range and color depth
•Used for professional-grade scanning in industries like printing and graphic design
4. Handheld Scanners
A handheld scanner is a portable scanning device that allows you to scan documents or images by manually moving
the scanner across the surface. These scanners are typically smaller and lighter than flatbed or sheetfed scanners,
offering portability and ease of use.
•Advantages:
•Portable and easy to use
•Ideal for quick, small scans
•Lightweight
5. 3D Scanners
A 3D scanner captures the physical shape of an object and converts it into a digital 3D model. These scanners use
various technologies, such as laser triangulation or structured light, to capture precise measurements of the object’s
surface and create a digital representation
•Advantages:
• Creates 3D digital models of real-world objects
• Useful for reverse engineering, prototyping, and animation
• Essential for fields like industrial design and healthcare
6. Photo Scanners
Photo scanners are a subset of flatbed scanners specifically designed for scanning photographs, often with
specialized features to optimize the quality of the scanned images.
Common fault , diagonosis method and corrective measures of the above
mentioned peripherals.
Monitor
Common Faults:
•No Display: The screen remains blank, and there’s no visible image.
•Flickering or Blinking: The image on the screen keeps flashing or flickering intermittently.
•Distorted Image: There may be color distortion, vertical or horizontal lines, or ghosting of images.
•Dead Pixels: Some pixels on the screen do not display correctly and remain black or show incorrect colors.
•Display not in the correct resolution: The display may appear stretched, blurry, or have incorrect aspect ratios.
Diagnosis Methods:
•Check the Power Supply: Ensure the monitor is plugged in and turned on. Look for any power indicator lights.
•Test the Cable Connections: Check if the VGA, HDMI, DisplayPort, or DVI cables are securely connected.
•Test on Another Device: Connect the monitor to another computer or device to confirm whether the issue lies with
the monitor or the original computer.
•Check for External Interference: Try turning off nearby electronic devices that could be causing interference
(such as large speakers or microwaves).
•Run Display Diagnostics: Some monitors have built-in diagnostic tools, accessible through the on-screen display
(OSD) menu, that can check for pixel issues or dead pixels.
Corrective Measures:
•Replace Cables: If the cables are damaged, replace them with new ones.
•Adjust Display Settings: Ensure the screen resolution and refresh rate are correctly set for your monitor’s
specifications.
•Update or Reinstall Drivers: Update the graphics card drivers, as outdated or corrupt drivers can cause display
issues.
•Replace the Monitor: If the screen is still blank or has significant hardware issues (e.g., dead pixels, severe
flickering), replacing the monitor may be necessary.
2. Scanner
Common Faults:
•Scanner not turning on: The scanner doesn’t power up or show any signs of life.
•Scanner not responding to commands: The scanner powers on, but it doesn’t start scanning or communicate
with the computer.
•Blurry or distorted scans: The scanned image is unclear, fuzzy, or contains color distortions.
•Paper Jams: The scanner fails to properly feed the paper through the scanning mechanism.
•Scanning Errors: The scanner produces incomplete or missing parts in the scanned image.
Diagnosis Methods:
•Power Check: Ensure the scanner is plugged in and the power switch is turned on.
•USB/Connection Check: Verify that the scanner is properly connected to the computer (USB cable or network
connection) and check for any loose or damaged connectors.
•Software or Driver Issues: Check if the scanner’s software is installed and functioning correctly. Try restarting both
the scanner and the computer.
•Inspect for Jams: Open the scanner to check for any paper or debris blocking the mechanism.
•Run Test Scans: Try scanning a document or image to check for blurry scans, and compare with a known good scan.
Corrective Measures:
•Power Cycle: Turn off the scanner, unplug it for a few seconds, and then turn it back on.
•Reinstall Drivers: If the scanner isn’t being recognized by the computer, reinstall or update the scanner drivers.
•Clean the Scanner: Dust or dirt on the scanner glass can cause blurry or distorted scans. Clean the glass and any
rollers or moving parts.
•Fix Paper Jams: Gently remove any stuck paper from the scanning mechanism. Follow the manufacturer’s
instructions for clearing jams.
•Replace the Scanner: If the scanner is still malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced, especially if it has a
mechanical failure.
3. Keyboard
Common Faults:
•Keys not responding: Certain keys or entire sections of the keyboard don’t work.
•Sticky or unresponsive keys: Keys are physically stuck or do not register properly.
•Keyboard input lag: The keyboard responds slowly, with a delay between pressing a key and seeing the action on
the screen.
Diagnosis Methods:
•Check the Connection: Ensure the keyboard is correctly connected to the computer, whether via USB or wireless.
•Test on Another Computer: Plug the keyboard into a different computer to verify if it works properly.
•Check for Software Issues: Ensure there are no software conflicts, such as outdated drivers or incorrect keyboard
language settings.
•Check for Physical Obstructions: Inspect the keys for debris, dust, or spills that could block the keys from
functioning properly.
Corrective Measures:
•Clean the Keyboard: Gently clean the keyboard by using compressed air or a damp cloth. For sticky keys, remove
the keycaps and clean underneath.
•Reboot or Reset: Sometimes, a simple reboot or reset (especially for wireless keyboards) can solve the issue.
•Replace Batteries: If using a wireless keyboard, check and replace the batteries.
•Update or Reinstall Drivers: Ensure that your keyboard drivers are up-to-date, or reinstall them if necessary.
•Replace the Keyboard: If keys continue to malfunction, replacing the keyboard may be necessary, especially if
there’s a mechanical failure or liquid damage.
4. Mouse
Common Faults:
•Cursor not moving: The mouse pointer does not move on the screen, or the movement is erratic.
•Buttons not working: Left or right mouse buttons do not register clicks.
•Double-clicking issue: The mouse behaves as if the left button is being clicked twice, even when it’s pressed once.
•Erratic or jittery movement: The mouse cursor jumps around or moves in unintended directions.
•Not recognized by the computer: The mouse is not being detected by the system.
Diagnosis Methods:
•Check the Connection: Ensure the mouse is properly plugged into the USB port or connected via Bluetooth.
•Test on Another Computer: Plug the mouse into another computer or device to check if it works.
•Check for Surface Issues: Optical or laser mice require a solid surface to function correctly. Ensure the surface is
clean and free of reflections or glare.
•Inspect for Interference (Wireless Mouse): Wireless mice can be affected by interference from other devices like
routers or microwaves.
Corrective Measures:
•Clean the Mouse: Clean the sensor area or the ball (if using a mechanical mouse) to ensure smooth movement.
•Replace Batteries (Wireless Mouse): If the mouse is wireless, try replacing the batteries.
•Update Drivers: Check for and install any updates to the mouse driver software.
•Test with Another Mouse: If possible, test the mouse on a different device to confirm whether the issue is with the
mouse itself.
•Replace the Mouse: If the mouse continues to malfunction, replacing it might be necessary, especially in the case of
mechanical or internal issues.
5. Display Adapter (Graphics Card)
Common Faults:
•No Signal: The monitor shows a "no signal" message or remains black, indicating no video output from the graphics
card.
•Screen Artifacts: Random lines, flickering, or color distortions appear on the screen.
•Low Resolution or Distorted Display: The monitor displays at incorrect resolutions or aspect ratios.
•Crashing or Freezing: The system crashes or freezes during graphics-intensive tasks or when gaming.
Diagnosis Methods:
•Check Connections: Ensure that the graphics card is securely seated in the PCI slot, and the monitor cables are
properly connected.
•Test with Another Monitor: Test the display adapter with another monitor to rule out issues with the monitor.
•Update Drivers: Outdated or corrupt graphics drivers can cause display problems. Ensure the latest driver is
installed.
•Test in Safe Mode: Boot the system in Safe Mode to see if the problem persists, which can indicate whether the
issue is software-related.
Corrective Measures:
•Reinstall or Update Drivers: Uninstall the current graphics drivers and reinstall or update to the latest version from
the manufacturer’s website.
•Check for Overheating: Ensure that the graphics card is not overheating. Check the cooling system, clean the dust,
or improve ventilation.
•Reseat or Replace the Graphics Card: If the card is physically damaged or not seated properly, reseat it. If the card
is faulty, replace it.
•Test with a Different Slot or Computer: If the issue persists, test the card in a different PCI slot or in another
computer to determine if the card is defective.