Computer Assembly and Repair - Questions and Answers (5 MARKS)

1. Explain the role of SMPS in a computer system.

SMPS (Switched Mode Power Supply) converts AC power from the main
supply into low-voltage DC power needed by computer components. It regulates
power to prevent fluctuations and ensures stable operation, protecting
components from electrical damage.

2. What are the different types of ports available on a CPU? Explain any
three.

Ports are interfaces that allow external devices to connect to a computer.

Common types include:

USB Port – Connects peripherals like keyboards, mice, and flash drives.

VGA Port – Transmits analog video signals to a monitor.

LAN Port – Provides a wired network connection for internet access.

3. How do you identify the hardware specifications of a computer system?

Windows: Open System Information (type "msinfo32" in Run

command).

Linux: Use terminal commands like lscpu, free -m, and lsblk to check
CPU, RAM, and storage details.

4. Describe the troubleshooting steps for a RAM failure (beep sound and
blue screen).

Turn off the computer and remove the RAM module.

Clean the RAM slots and reinstall the module properly.

Try booting the system with one RAM stick at a time.

If the issue persists, test with another RAM module or check for
motherboard issues.

5. How can you disable and enable USB and LAN settings in BIOS?

Restart the computer and enter BIOS (press F2, DEL, or F10 during
startup).

Navigate to Advanced Settings or Integrated Peripherals.

 Locate USB Configuration and LAN Controller, enable/disable as
needed.

Save and exit BIOS.

6. Explain how to recover hidden files from a corrupted pen drive using
command prompt.

Open Command Prompt as Administrator.

Type: attrib -h -r -s /s /d X:\*.* (replace X with the USB drive letter).

Press Enter, and the hidden files should be restored.

7. What is the process for installing an antivirus? List the benefits after
installation.

Download and install the antivirus software.

Run a full system scan to detect malware.

Enable real-time protection and automatic updates.

Benefits: Protects against malware, phishing, and online threats.

8. How do you connect an LCD projector to a laptop or CPU?

Connect the VGA or HDMI cable from the projector to the laptop.

Turn on the projector and select the correct input source.

Press Win + P (Windows) or use Display settings to project the screen.

9. Describe the steps for adding additional RAM to a system.

Power off and unplug the computer.

Open the CPU case and locate the RAM slots.

Insert the new RAM module firmly into an available slot.

Close the case and restart the computer to check for proper detection.

10. What precautions should be taken while installing a graphics card in a

computer?

Ensure the power supply (SMPS) is sufficient for the GPU.

 Use an anti-static wrist strap to prevent damage.

Insert the graphics card properly into the PCIe slot.

Install drivers after restarting the system.

11. Define and explain the purpose of a NIC (Network Interface Card).

A NIC (Network Interface Card) is a hardware component that enables

computers to connect to a network via wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi)
connections.

12. What are the different types of RAM? Explain their differences.

DDR (Double Data Rate) RAM: Includes DDR1, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4,
and DDR5, used in modern computers.

SRAM (Static RAM): Faster, used in cache memory.

DRAM (Dynamic RAM): Slower but cheaper, used as main memory.

13. How does a processor cooling fan help in system performance?

It prevents overheating by dissipating heat from the CPU, ensuring stable

performance and prolonging component life.

14. What is the difference between a 32-bit and 64-bit operating system?

32-bit OS: Supports up to 4GB RAM, runs 32-bit applications.

64-bit OS: Supports more than 4GB RAM, provides better performance
and security.

15. Explain the function of the BIOS and its role in booting a computer.

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) initializes hardware and loads the operating
system from storage when the computer starts.

16. How do you identify the computer name and hardware specifications in
Windows/Linux?

Windows: Type systeminfo in Command Prompt.

Linux: Use hostnamectl to check system name and lscpu for hardware
specs.

17. What are the symptoms of a failing hard drive (HDD)? How can they be
diagnosed?
 Symptoms: Slow performance, clicking noises, frequent crashes.

Diagnosis: Use CHKDSK (Windows) or smartctl -a (Linux).

18. What are the functions of a PCI card? Mention different types of PCI
cards.

Functions: Expands system capabilities (e.g., better graphics,

networking).

Types: Graphics cards, Sound cards, Wi-Fi cards, TV tuner cards.

19. List and explain the common BIOS settings available for a computer.

Boot Order: Determines which device boots first.

CPU Overclocking: Adjusts processor speed.

USB Configuration: Enables/disables USB ports.

20. Describe the process of installing a new keyboard, mouse, speaker, or

microphone on a system.

Connect the device to the appropriate port (USB, PS/2, Audio jack).

Wait for the system to detect and install drivers.

Check functionality in Device Manager.

21. What are the steps involved in connecting an LCD projector to a laptop
or CPU?

(Same as Q8)

22. How do you troubleshoot a blue screen error caused by RAM issues?

Check RAM modules and reseat them.

Run Windows Memory Diagnostic.

Replace RAM if errors persist.

23. Explain the importance of VGA, USB, and LAN ports in a computer.

VGA: Transmits analog video signals.

USB: Connects peripherals like storage devices and printers.

 LAN: Provides network connectivity for internet access.

24. How can you identify if SMPS is faulty? Mention some common
symptoms.

Symptoms: Computer does not turn on, sudden shutdowns, burning smell.

Diagnosis: Use a multimeter to check output voltages.

25. What are the necessary precautions to follow while assembling and
disassembling a computer?

Turn off power and unplug all cables.

Use an anti-static wrist strap.

Handle components carefully to avoid damage.

Questions and Answers (8 MARKS)

26. Explain the step-by-step procedure for installing Windows 7/10,

including disk partitioning.

Insert the installation media (USB/DVD) and restart the computer.

Enter BIOS and set the boot priority to the installation media.

Choose language, time, and keyboard preferences.

Click Install Now and enter the product key (if required).

Select Custom Installation for a fresh install.

Delete or create partitions as needed.

Choose the partition where Windows should be installed and continue.

Let the installation complete, then follow the on-screen setup.

27. How do you install a Linux-based operating system like Ubuntu?

Explain the steps in detail.

Download Ubuntu ISO from the official website.

Create a bootable USB drive using Rufus or BalenaEtcher.

Insert the USB and restart the computer.

 Enter BIOS and set the USB as the primary boot device.

Select Try Ubuntu or Install Ubuntu.

Choose the installation type (Erase disk or dual-boot).

Create partitions if necessary and click Install Now.

Set up username, password, and time zone.

Complete the installation and restart the system.

28. Discuss the troubleshooting methods for common motherboard failures.

Check for loose connections and damaged capacitors.

Reset the BIOS settings using the CMOS jumper.

Remove and test RAM modules individually.

Ensure the SMPS is working and delivering proper power.

Look for burn marks or short circuits on the motherboard.

Use a POST diagnostic card to check error codes.

29. How do you configure BIOS settings to disable and enable USB and
LAN? Explain with steps.

Restart the computer and enter BIOS (Press F2, DEL, or F10).

Navigate to Advanced Settings or Integrated Peripherals.

Locate USB Configuration and set it to Enable/Disable.

Locate LAN Controller and set it to Enable/Disable.

Save changes and exit BIOS.

30. Describe the process of recovering hidden files from a corrupted pen
drive using Command Prompt.

Insert the pen drive and open Command Prompt as Administrator.

 Type: attrib -h -r -s /s /d X:\*.* (Replace X with the drive letter).

Press Enter, and the files should be restored.

31. What is the role of Disk Drill software in recovering lost data? Explain
the steps involved.

Disk Drill scans storage devices to recover deleted or lost files.

Steps:

1. Install and open Disk Drill.

2.Select the drive to be scanned.

Click Scan for lost data and wait for results.

Preview recoverable files and restore them.

32. Discuss the method of installing and testing an antivirus program like
Avast or Kaspersky.

Download the antivirus from the official website.

Run the installer and follow on-screen instructions.

After installation, update the antivirus database.

Perform a full system scan to check for malware.

33. Explain the importance of upgrading RAM and describe the steps for
inserting additional RAM into a system.

Importance: Improves system performance, speeds up multitasking, and

reduces lag.

Steps:

1.Turn off the computer and unplug it.

2.Open the case and locate the RAM slots.

3.Insert the new RAM module firmly into an empty slot.

 4.Close the case and restart the system.

34. What is the purpose of a graphics card in a computer? Explain the

installation process of a graphics card.

Purpose: Enhances display quality and improves gaming/video editing

performance.

Installation:

1. Power off the system.

2.Open the case and locate the PCIe slot.

3.Insert the graphics card and secure it with screws.

4.Connect necessary power cables and restart the system.

35. Describe the complete process of assembling a desktop computer,

including hardware connections.

1.Install the motherboard and secure it inside the case.

2.Insert the processor and apply thermal paste.

3.Install the RAM modules in the designated slots.

4.Connect the SMPS (Power Supply Unit).

5.Attach the hard drive or SSD.

6.Connect all necessary cables (USB, front panel, etc.).

7. Power on and install an operating system.

36. Explain how to identify and fix issues related to SMPS, RAM, and
motherboard when a computer does not turn on.

SMPS issue: Test with a multimeter, replace if faulty.

RAM issue: Reseat RAM or test with another module.

Motherboard issue: Check for visible damage, test with a POST card.
37. What are the different types of processors available in the market?
Compare Intel and AMD processors.

Types: Intel Core, AMD Ryzen, ARM, Xeon.

Comparison:

Intel: Better single-core performance, higher price.

AMD: More cores/threads, better value for money.

38. How do you diagnose and fix common hardware failures in a computer?
Explain with examples.

HDD failure: Use chkdsk or replace the drive.

Overheating: Check thermal paste and clean dust from fans.

No Display: Check GPU and RAM connections.

39. What are the best practices for maintaining and optimizing a computer
system for long-term use?

Keep system clean and dust-free.

Regularly update software and drivers.

Avoid installing unnecessary programs.

Use antivirus software to prevent malware.

40. Explain the functions of various ports in a computer, including PS/2,

VGA, USB, LAN, and audio ports.

PS/2: Connects old keyboards/mice.

VGA: Transfers analog video signals.

USB: Connects external peripherals.

LAN: Provides wired network connectivity.

 Audio Ports: Connects speakers/headphones.

41. Explain in detail the assembling and disassembling process of a

computer.

Assembling: Install motherboard, CPU, RAM, PSU, and storage devices.

Disassembling: Remove components carefully, unplug power

connections.

42. Describe the troubleshooting steps for SMPS and motherboard failures
when the CPU does not switch on.

Test SMPS output voltage using a multimeter.

Check for burn marks or damaged capacitors on the motherboard.

Try booting with minimum required components.

43. How do you install Windows 7/10 and create partitions during
installation?

(Same as Q26)

44. Explain the installation process of Linux/Ubuntu and its key features.

(Same as Q27)

45. Describe how to recover data from a crashed hard disk using Disk Drill
software.

(Same as Q31)

46. What are the steps involved in installing Python 3.8 and OpenOffice on
a system?

1.Download the installer from the official website.

 2. Run the setup and follow instructions.

3.Restart and verify installation.

47. Compare and contrast different types of processors used in modern

computers.

(Same as Q37)

48. Explain how to configure BIOS settings for disabling/enabling USB and
LAN.

(Same as Q29)

49. What are the different types of expansion cards (PCI, NIC, Graphics)
and their functions?

(Same as Q18)

50. Discuss the importance of hardware peripherals like CPU, RAM, HDD,
and NIC card in a computer system.

CPU: Executes instructions.

RAM: Temporarily stores data for quick access.

HDD: Stores long-term data.

NIC: Enables network connectivity.