Summary
This chapter discussed the steps required to assemble a computer. Some of the important concepts to retain from this chapter include the following:
  • Preventing ESD and other safety issues
  • The importance of a inventory checklist
  • Deciding on the computer case and power supply types or form factors
  • Proper installation of the motherboard and the spacers used to keep the motherboard from touching the case
  • Attaching the LEDs and speakers
  • Attaching drives, connecting them to the power supply, and determining jumper configurations
  • Considerations when installing an external video card
  • Booting the system for the first time
  • Entering BIOS/CMOS setup, power management, and troubleshooting

Now that the student has the computer up and running, it is important to understand the operating system (OS). The next chapter discusses the fundamentals of an OS.