WPC Practical 20

Engineering Workshop Practice (311002)
Practical No 24: Component replacement
Computer disassembly
Whether you’re taking apart your computer to scrap it, install new components, clean it,
or just to see how it works, our guide shows you how to take it all apart, then put it back
together.
Our guide covers the most common ways computers are put together, but computers
and manufacturers can vary. If you can’t access a particular component when it’s listed
in the guide, skip to the instructions to remove the other parts until you can reach the
original component. Generally, the process is to unplug all the cords and cables
connecting a component to other components, then remove the part from the case or
frame. Components can be attached to the case with special clips, screws, or by
insertion into a holder. In each case, no more than a small amount of force is needed to
remove the part. If it’s not moving, check for more attachments that are holding the
component in place.
You will need a small Phillips-head screwdriver and depending on the manufacturer of
your components, possibly a flathead screwdriver. The metal inside the computer case
can be sharp, so you might want gloves, as well. If you are rebuilding the computer, be
sure to document what area you removed components from, the order you removed
them, and what cables attach to each part. You can take pictures before each removal
or write it down. Keep careful track of the screws, as well. Keep the screws with their
relevant component by screwing them back in the holes either on the component or on
the frame or by taping them to the correct location.
1 – Unplug your computer and peripheral items
Turn off the computer, unplug the power cord and unplug any peripheral items attached
to the computer, such as the keyboard, mouse, monitor, headphones, and any external
drives
Wear a grounding strap or touch an unpainted metal part of the computer to discharge
any static electricity. If you walk across a carpet at any point, touch an unpainted metal
part of the computer again to discharge the built up static electricity.
2 – Remove side covers
Remove at least one of the side covers, usually the right side as you face the front of
the computer. You might find it easier to access all the parts if you remove both side
covers; there are sometimes thumb screws on the covers to make access easier.
3 – Disconnect connectors
Disconnect all the connectors, then remove any card readers and internal DVD players.
These are usually screwed into place.
4 – Remove standalone fans
Remove any standalone fans. This is a good time to remove any dust, lint, and pet hair
from the fans if you’re planning on reusing them.
5 – Remove the storage drive
Disconnect the cables and remove the storage drive. Generally, storage drives are held
in place by multiple screws. If you have a hard drive, be gentle when moving the drive
as hard bumps can damage the internal parts.
6 – Remove memory (RAM) modules
Remove the memory (RAM) modules by pushing the clips on both ends of the module
down. This will cause the module to pop up for easy removal. Do not touch the gold
connectors on the chips if you’re reusing the modules. If you're not reusing the
RAM, find out how it can be used in other applications.
7 – Remove power supply unit
Remove the power supply unit by unplugging the remaining connectors, then
unscrewing the unit from the frame.
8 – Remove motherboard adapter or expansion cards
Remove any adapter or expansion cards from the motherboard. Although these cards
usually slide into preconfigured slots, there can be screws. Do not touch the gold
connectors on the cards if you’re reinstalling the cards.
9 – Remove the motherboard
Disconnect all the cables from the motherboard, then unscrew it from the frame by
loosening each screw a little bit before going around again to loosen each screw
properly. This prevents any potential warping of the motherboard by gradually releasing
the tension on it.
All the components should now be out of the computer case. If you’re reusing the case,
this is a good time to get rid of all the dust and lint that might have collected.
Computer reassembly
If you are rebuilding the computer, insert the components in the opposite order you
removed them, starting with the motherboard. Plug in all the cables as you insert the
component; most items will plug into the motherboard and the power supply unit.
Congratulations, you’ve disassembled, and possibly reassembled your computer!

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Engineering Workshop Practice (311002)

Practical No 24: Component replacement

1 – Unplug your computer and peripheral items

2 – Remove side covers

4 – Remove standalone fans

5 – Remove the storage drive

6 – Remove memory (RAM) modules

7 – Remove power supply unit

8 – Remove motherboard adapter or expansion cards

9 – Remove the motherboard

Congratulations, you’ve disassembled, and possibly reassembled your computer!

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