How to Build a Computer - Training Guide (Facilitator)

[HOW TO BUILD A COMPUTER]
2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
Page0
Computer Hardware Installation Guide
(Facilitator)
How to Build
a Computer
2014
Marcus Bost, Teddy Keyser, Danial Seibert

2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
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ADDIE Model
The ADDIE Model was used in designing the current training program. The reason why this
particular model was chosen is because it provides structured guidance for design, it includes a
focus on implementation and evaluation, and it serves as a valuable checklist to complement
individual design habits.
Analyze
• Completed a training needs assessment including target audience, design time table, cost,etc.
• This identifies the scope of the training and what issues need to be taken into consideation
before designing the training program.
Design
• Designed training program around the needs of the target audience and identified potenital
issues such as performance gaps.
• Illustrated that the program only deals with the mechanical components of a computer and not
different types of computer software.
• Identified 4 key performance objectives all trainees will meet from completing the training.
Develop
• Identified the main hardware components to be used in the program and potential
troubleshooting solutions in order to overcome any issues in facilitation.
• Created a hardware manual as a resource to help facilitate better understanding on how to build
a computer.
• Developed guides for both facilitators and trainees to increase effectiveness of instruction and
smoothly progress the session.
Implement
•Training program is developed and administered to the participants
•After the completion of the training program, trainees are asked to complete a short survey indicating
what part of their training was most important to their learning, how the overall experience was, and a
space in which trainees can provide other feedback.
Evaluate
• Facilitators review the responses from the training evaluation survey from the trainees.
• This information could be used to evaluate the training program and indicate which parts of the
facilitation went well, along with potential areas from improvement.

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Contents
Introduction......................................................................................................................................3
Targeted Audience ............................................................................................................................3
Performance Objectives ....................................................................................................................3
Materials...........................................................................................................................................4
Session Guide....................................................................................................................................5
Tips for Facilitation ..........................................................................................................................5
Preparation.......................................................................................................................................6
Introduction to How to Build a Computer .........................................................................................7
Defining Key Terms ........................................................................................................................8
Installing the Motherboard ..............................................................................................................9
Installing the CPU ........................................................................................................................ 10
Installing the RAM ........................................................................................................................ 11
Installing the CD/DVD/Blu-Ray Drive............................................................................................ 12
Installing the Hard Drive .............................................................................................................. 13
(Optional) Installing the Graphics Processing Unit ......................................................................... 14
Installing the Power Supply ........................................................................................................... 15
Hardware Manual .......................................................................................................................... 18
Key Components - Definitions, Variations and Things to Consider ................................................... 18
Computer Case.......................................................................................................................... 18
Power Supply Connectors. ......................................................................................................... 18
Motherboard. ............................................................................................................................ 18
Graphic Processing Unit............................................................................................................ 19
Central Processing Unit............................................................................................................. 19
Random Access Memory. ........................................................................................................... 20
Troubleshooting............................................................................................................................ 20
** All Content for Trainee Guides begins a page prior. (20 ->19)

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Introduction
Computers are important parts of our daily lives. It seems as though everyone living in
today’s society uses a computer at least once a day, either at home, work or school. Although
most individuals know how to operate a computer, not many know the physical components that
make up a computer, leaving them to rely on purchasing pre-built devices and outside technical
support services. In recent years however, many consumers and those with an interest in
technology have begun to understand the value in a more do-it-yourself (DIY) model. Making
their own selections of component that fit their needs, and installing them to create a personal
computer, in the truest sense of the word. This change is the issue that this training will address.
Specifically, this guide and manual is to educate individuals who are looking to enhance their
knowledge of computer hardware, those who are using this training for future employment in the
field, and those who simply want to build or repair their home computers. By understanding how
a computer works and learning how they are built, this guide will enable a person to be able to
better understand the functions of a computer and how to make repairs and/or upgrades in the
hardware. Also, to an extent, it can prepare someone to do their own troubleshooting before
contacting a professional, all of which could save money. The benefit of this resource is the
ability to provide individuals the understanding of how the internal components of a computer
work, what parts can be replaced to increase function, and most importantly, how to fix a
hardware problem themselves without spending top dollar for repairs at a shop.
This manual provides information and instruction regarding the physical components, or
hardware that makes up a computer. It provides information about computer hardware and its
purpose, and therefore an understanding of how the devices work. However, the manual does not
offer information on software training. Furthermore, this training does not detail how to install
hardware connected outside of a computer tower (e.g. monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer,
speakers). This means that it cannot be expected for anyone reading this manual to understand
specific software applications, how to troubleshoot software related issues, or how to install
outside hardware components.
Targeted Audience
This training is directed to beginner and intermediate experience levels with computer
hardware installation. It is not expected for trainees to know what the components are that make
up a computer or their function. It is not expected for trainees to know any steps involved in
building their own device. It is expected for trainees to understand the basic uses behind
computers; surfing the internet, typing a document, playing a game, watching movies, listening
to music, etc…
Performance Objectives
After completing this training all attendees will be able to perform the following objectives;
1. Describe how each component of a computer works; providing specific desired outcomes
for an individual building their own computer.

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2. Given the proper parts of a computer, assemble a computer that turns on and operates
correctly.
3. Given the various components of a computer, identify the processor, graphics card and
other hardware with 100% accuracy.
4. List the hardware components that make up a computer and describe the purpose of each
component with 100% accuracy.
Materials
In order to build a computer from scratch, you will need the following parts. Look at the
appendices for more detailed information.
1) Computer Case (also called a tower)
a) comes in various sizes:
b) MicroATX/mini ATX (small case, up to 14” to 16” in height)
c) ATX Mid tower (medium case, 18” in height)
d) ATX Full (large case, 22” or more in height)
2) A power supply with appropriate wattage (W)
a) 550W or higher recommended for a gaming computer (computer built to play mostly
newer and higher end video games)
3) Motherboard
a) Will either be an Intel based motherboard, or AMD.
i) Make sure it is a match for the case (MicroATX, Mid, or Full)
4) Central Processing Unit (CPU),
a) Will either be Intel based or AMD
b) Make sure it matches the motherboard (Intel motherboard uses an Intel CPU and vice
versa)
5) A Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
a) Comes in two main forms:
i) HDD - cheaper, but slower than a Solid State Drive (SSD)
ii) SSD - higher cost, but faster and more reliable than a HDD
6) A CD/DVD/Blu-Ray drive
a) Will vary depending on needs
7) Random Access Memory (RAM)
a) Amount of RAM needed varies on the desired use for the computer, but at least 4
gigabytes (GB) recommended.
b) Make sure RAM type is compatible with motherboard
8) Thermal Paste
a) sometimes comes with your CPU/heatsink combo, otherwise you will have to buy some
9) Optional: Graphical Processing Unit (GPU)
a) If the primary purpose of the computer is to play modern video games, this is highly
recommended to have in it.
b) See Manual for more details

12:30pm - 1:30pm (30min)
Introduction to Training
Defining Key Terms
1:35pm - 3:00pm (1 hr 20min)
Hardware Installation Training
3:00pm - 3:10pm (10min)
Training Wrap-up
Trainee Exeperience Survey
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10) Phillips Head Screwdriver
11) Needle Nose Pliers
a) Used to straighten bent pins on CPU (only if needed!)
Session Guide
Duration: 2 hour session
Tips for Facilitation
 Prior to beginning training session ensure that you are familiar with the training content and guide
so that it is not a crutch during facilitation.
 Utilize notes for facilitators in each section of the training to assist with smooth and thorough
progress through the guide.
 Reference the manual in the back of the guide to receive more detail about hardware components
and answer possible questions from trainees.
 Carefully watch each trainee to ensure proper handling and installation of each component.
 Learning by doing: this training is hands-on, allow each trainee to learn from the experience of
building their own computer piece by piece.
 No rush: adjust speed of training to suit experience levels and progress of trainees
 Have Fun: engage each trainee on a personal level tying how this content can benefit them in
their daily activities. Use stories from your own background and experiences.

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Preparation
There are a few things that should be done before working on a computer, whether you are
building one from scratch, or simply replacing a part.
1) Make sure you have an open, clean workspace.
a) Putting a computer together can take up a lot of space.
b) Try to make sure the environment is as clean as possible with little dust
i) Dirt/dust can cause issues with certain parts of the computer before they are placed on
the motherboard.
c) Keep any liquids/food a good distance from the components when installing them.
2) Ground yourself; get rid of any static built up on your person.
a) Touch something metal that is not the computer to discharge any static electricity as the
electricity can damage components within the computer.
3) Lay out all of the components in an organized fashion.
a) Might not be necessary if you are simply replacing a component or two.
b) It is easy to lose track of screws and smaller components.
4) Make sure nothing is close to an edge (such as the edge of the table you are working on).
a) Dropping a component is an easy way to break it!
5) Always make sure the computer is turned off and unplugged when working on it.
a) Trying to replace a part with the computer on is not only dangerous, but an easy way to
cause damage to not only the computer, but anything you might have stored on the
computer.

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Delivery
Method/Time
Introduction to How to Build a Computer
Notes for
Facilitators
Discussion
20 min
SAY: Welcome to the How to Build a Computer! This training
is on computer hardware installation, so specifically what
components makeup a computer, what they are for, and most
importantly how do we put them together. To begin let’s
quickly go around the room and find out what experience
levels we have here. Start Before/After activity;
 Before/After:
o Go around the room asking each trainee to
answer the following three questions; 1. First
name 2. How experienced are you with
computer hardware (beginner, intermediate,
expert)? 3. What do they hope to gain from the
training?
Ok, so it seems that most of us are beginners or maybe only
have some experience with computer hardware. Well that
means you’re in the right place. This training will cover
everything you need to know about basic computer hardware
installation.
 State Performance Objectives:
o What will the trainees be able to do after
completing this training?
 Go over the session guide
o Walk through the structure of the training
o Reference the manual to be used as a resource
throughout and after the training
 Go over notes for preparation
o Ensure all trainees have proper materials and
that workspaces are clear before starting session.
 Be outgoing and
enthusiastic about
the training. Let
them feel you are
excited to be there.
 Don’t stick to the
script. Add in your
own personal
experience, why
learning this skill
is useful to you.
 Feel free to alter
or modify an
activity to suit each
session.
 Identify if there is a
significant
difference between
experience levels
of trainees. Some
may require more
guidance than
others.
 Consistently
reiterate
component names
and functions
throughout session.
Supporting
Materials
Guide

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Delivery
Method/Time
Defining Key Terms
Notes for
Facilitators
Discussion
10 min
SAY: So the first thing we are going to do is make use of our
hardware manual, which is found after our guide. Turn to page
12 now. ~ On this page all of our key terms are defined. Each
hardware component that we will use is listed here, along with
more in-depth information for you all to take advantage of
after this training ends. Let’s review these terms now;
 Review the definitions for each hardware component.
o Allow trainees to participate by reading
definitions.
o After stating a definition, ask the class how that
specific component affects day-to-day computer
use.
 Review why knowing the functions of components are
useful.
o If purchasing a pre-built computer, knowing what
you will use the computer for is only half the
battle. You should also know which components
are most important to fitting your needs. This will
allow you to make more accurate and satisfying
decisions as consumers.
 Make sure that you
familiarize yourself
with each
component before
conducting
training.
 Be prepared to
answer or direct
any possible
questions.
 Keep it simple:
Make sure trainees
get the basic
understanding of
each hardware
component.
 Use practical
examples to ensure
understanding of
each component’s
function.
Supporting
Materials
Guide

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Delivery
Method
Installing the Motherboard
Notes for
Facilitators
Guided
Instruction
15 min
Note: Sometimes you might want to install the power
supply before the motherboard and the rest of the
components, sometimes you might want to install it last, or
sometimes somewhere in the middle of the process. Cases
are built differently, and different styles of cases might
make one method easier to do than the other. It is up to
your discretion and what you think would be easiest with
your case.
1) Make sure your motherboard fits your case (e.g.
microATX, ATX)
2) Remove the side panels from the computer case for easier
access to the areas needed to install the motherboard.
a) Some cases have a motherboard tray (something the
motherboard sits on) that can be removed. If your case
has this, remove it for easier installation.
3) Remove the I/O panel shield on the back of the case. This
is either a plastic or metal piece where the connectors for
the motherboard extend out for your monitor, USB
devices, and other peripherals.
a) Now that the I/O shield is removed, replace it with the
one that came with the motherboard (if one came with
your motherboard).
b) Apply equal pressure to the corners of the panel and it
should snap into place.
c) Make sure the panel is installed correctly; compare it
to the connectors on the motherboard to make sure it is
installed correctly.
4) Now, find the standoffs for your motherboard. Most
motherboards will come with their own standoffs,
sometimes your case might come with them, too. It is
recommended to use the ones that come with the
motherboard first.
a) These are peg-like screws that have a hole for a screw
on one side and a screw/peg for the other. They keep
the motherboard above the case to aid in cooling and to
 See Key Terms for
more information
on the
motherboard
 Ensure that all
workspace is clear,
adhering to rules
for preparation
 Review component
definition/function.
Give this
information to
trainees before
installation, and
then ask for this
information from
trainees after.
Supporting
Materials
Case
Motherboard
Screw Driver

2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
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ground the motherboard.
5) Install the standoffs in the motherboard tray. Match up the
holes in the tray with the holes in the motherboard to
figure out where the standoffs need to be installed. Screw
in (or push in if the standoffs are a peg) the standoffs in the
motherboard tray.
a) Not all motherboards will need every available hole
located in the motherboard tray. Only make sure you
use standoffs where there is a hole available on the
motherboard. Never use extra standoffs.
6) Now place the motherboard on the standoffs. The holes on
the motherboard should line up with the standoffs you
installed. If your motherboard tray does not come out of
the case, you might need to gently force the motherboard
against the I/O panel on the back of the case to fit it. Start
to secure the motherboard with screws.
a) CAUTION: Do NOT over tighten the screws on the
motherboard. Make sure it is firm but not too tight.
Also, do not use an electric screwdriver.
b) If there is a hole that does not have metal around it, a
cardboard washer might be needed. If you can, avoid
those types of holes altogether.
7) Now that the motherboard is in place, it is time to install
the CPU.
Delivery
Method/Time
Installing the CPU
Notes for
Facilitators
Guided
Instruction
15 min
1) As previously stated, be sure that you have the correct
CPU for your motherboard (see appendix under CPU for
more details).
2) Ground yourself. Make sure you have no static build up
before you remove the CPU from its packaging. A static
discharge could damage it.
3) Remove the CPU from its packaging.
4) Unlatch the socket cover.
a) Typically a metal cover that has a latch on the side of
the CPU socket.
5) Line up the notches or triangle on the CPU with the socket
on the motherboard.
more information
on the CPU.
definition/function.
Supporting
Materials
CPU
Thermal Paste

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a) Depending on the CPU, it may either have several
notches in one corner, or a triangle to help guide you in
correctly installing the CPU.
6) Gently lay the CPU in the socket. Once you have ensured
that the CPU is oriented correctly, gently place the CPU
directly in the socket. Make sure it is going straight down,
never at an angle.
a) You should never have to force the CPU into place.
Doing so might bend the pins on the CPU and could
potentially ruin the CPU.
7) Relatch the socket cover. Once the CPU is in its socket,
close the socket cover and relatch it so the CPU is securely
held into place.
8) Apply thermal paste to the CPU. Place a small amount of
thermal paste (about the size of a pea) on the top, middle
of the CPU.
9) Secure the CPU cooler/heatsink. This process will vary
with the type of CPU you have (Intel or AMD).
a) Typically, Intel heatsinks attach to the motherboard via
pegs, whereas AMD heatsinks have metal tabs that are
installed at an angle.
10) Make sure to plug in the CPU cooler into the CPU_FAN
connector on your motherboard. This powers the fan on the
cooler and if not connected your computer will shut down
from the CPU overheating within minutes.
Delivery
Method/Time
Installing the RAM
Notes for
Facilitators
Guided
Instruction
15 min
1) Locate your RAM slots on the motherboard. Most
motherboards typically have 2 or 4 RAM slots which are
usually located near the CPU, though the location may vary
based on manufacturer of your motherboard.
a) If you are upgrading, remember to remove old RAM to
free up the sockets.
2) Remove your RAM from its packaging, making sure to grip
it from the sides to prevent from touching the contacts on
the bottom of the RAM.
3) Insert the RAM into the RAM slot. Make sure to line up the
notch in the RAM with the break in the slot. Apply equal
pressure onto the stick of RAM until the clamps on the side
more information
on the RAM
 Review
component
definition/function
Supporting
Materials

2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
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RAM
Screw Driver
click and lock the RAM in. Pressure will be required, but
never force the RAM in.
a) Repeat this process for each stick of RAM.
Delivery
Method/Time
Installing the CD/DVD/Blu-Ray Drive
Notes for
Facilitators
Guided
Instruction
10 min
1) Some cases might have a drive bay cover. This is a cover
that is removable and is located on the front of your
computer case.
a) You will have to remove these before installing your
drive.
b) Varies by case, typically they will pop out if pressure
is applied to them from the inside of the case.
2) Slide your CD/DVD/Blu-Ray drive into the drive bay on
the computer
3) Some cases will have tool-free installation, you will know
if your case is such one if it has plastic clamps on the side
of the drive bay in your case. If it does not have these, you
will need to use screws to secure the drive in place.
4) Most new drives will require a SATA cable to be
connected from the drive to a SATA port on the
motherboard.
a) Older drives will need what is called an IDE connector.
5) Once the SATA cables are connected, connect the power
supply to the drives (see power supply section).
more information
on the Optical
Drive
definition/function
Supporting
Materials
Optical Drive
Screw Driver

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Delivery
Method/Time
Installing the Hard Drive
Notes for
Facilitators
Guided
Instruction
15 min
1) If you are replacing a hard drive, you must first remove
your old hard drive.
a) Make sure all the cables are disconnected from the
hard drive to the power supply and motherboard.
b) Unscrew the screws on the sides (or unclamp/slide to
unlocked position the tool free clamps if your case has
them) and slide the hard drive out of the housing.
2) Insert your new drive. Remove it from its packaging and
slide it into the hard drive housing of your case. The drive
should slide directly in and the holes should line up with
the screw guides in the housing.
a) If you have tool-free clamps, the hard drive should
slide in. Then slide the clamps into the locked position.
Skip parts b and c if you had tool-free clamps.
b) Secure the hard drive. Once you have inserted the hard
drive, use the screws that came with it to secure it into
place. Ideally, you should use screws in both sides.
c) Do not over tighten the screws as this could cause
damage.
3) Connect the hard drive to the motherboard. SATA cables
resemble USB cables and can be connected in either
direction.
a) As shown in the CD/DVD section, most new hard
drives will use SATA connectors and power
connectors, whereas older drives might use IDE.
b) Make sure to connect your main hard drive into the
SATA0 or SATA1 (varies with motherboards)
channel, and subsequent hard drives in the channels
that follow.
4) Connect the power supply to the hard drive. See Installing
the Power Supply for details.
5) Once you are finished building your computer, and it
powers on, you will need to install an operating system on
your computer in order to use it.
a) Examples of operating systems are: Windows 7, 8,
Apple OSX Yosemite, Linux.
more information
on the Hard Drive
definition/function
Supporting
Materials
Hard Drive
Screw Driver

2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
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Delivery
Method
(Optional) Installing the Graphics Processing Unit
Notes for
Facilitators
Guided
Instruction
10 min
1) Make sure your motherboard will support your GPU. See
appendix under GPU for details.
a) Also make sure your power supply will support your
GPU. Typically the GPU will state the minimum
Wattage power supply needed for it to run smoothly
and the needed amount of PCI-E connectors.
2) Remove your GPU from its packaging. Make sure to not
touch the contacts running along the bottom.
3) Insert the new card directly into the PCIe slot (see
appendix under GPU for details).
a) Apply even, firm pressure onto the GPU. You should
hear the tab at the base of the PCIe slot click when the
card is in place.
b) You may have to remove the neighboring panel on the
rear of your case if your new GPU requires two bays.
c) Make sure the screw holes line up with the ones on the
chassis.
d) Also make sure that there will be no other cables or
other components in the way of the GPU when you are
inserting it.
4) Secure the GPU with the provided screws. There will be a
hole in the case and one on the chassis of the GPU that
should line up for you to insert the screw to secure the
GPU into place.
a) It is important that the card is securely installed as it
will be lying horizontally when the case is standing
and a secure connection will help prevent damage.
5) Plug in the power supply connectors to the GPU.
a) Will require one or two 6/8-pin PCI-E connectors.
6) Connect your monitor(s) to one of the display ports on the
back of the GPU.
a) Will vary based on your monitor (HDMI, DVI, VGA
type connection).
7) When you finish building your computer, installing your
more information
on the GPU
definition/function
Supporting
Materials
GPU
Screw Driver

2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
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preferred operating system, you will need to install the
drivers for your GPU. Most GPUs come with a CD that
can be used to install the drivers, but you can also visit the
manufacturer’s respective website for the drivers (either
AMD or nVidia).
Delivery
Method
Installing the Power Supply
Notes for
Facilitators
Guided
Instruction
10 min
1) The purpose of the power supply is a simple yet important
one: it will power all of the components of the computer.
a) Because of this, make sure that your power supply is
powerful enough to power all of your components or
your computer might not run at all.
b) Also make sure you have enough of the proper
connectors on the power supply (see appendix under
power supply connectors).
c) Make sure it matches your computer case (e.g. ATX
mid power supply for an ATX mid case).
2) Place your computer case on its side. This will allow for
the easiest access and installation of the power supply.
a) Once on its side, open the side panel of the case...
3) Mount the power supply in the case. Most cases have only
one way to allow you to slide the power supply into its
housing. Make sure any fans on the power supply are not
blocked, as this would indicate it is installed incorrectly.
a) If there are places to screw in the power supply
(typically on the back of the case) use the screws
provided by the power supply to secure it into place.
4) Plug in the connectors. Once you have secured the power
supply it is time to start plugging in the many connectors
into the various components of the computer.
a) Take the 20/24 pin connector (the biggest one of the
power supply) and plug it into the motherboard. This
will power the motherboard. Newer motherboards will
take a 24-pin, while older ones will take a 20-pin.
b) Now, connect the 12V power to the motherboard.
Newer boards will usually take and 8-pin connector,
while older boards will take a 4-pin. The job of this
connector is to power the computer’s processor and
should be clearly marked by either the power supply or
the power supply’s documentation.
c) Connect the graphics card of your computer (if you
have one). It will require at least one 6 or 8-pin PCI-E
more information
on the Power
Supply
definition/function
Supporting
Materials
Power Supply

2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
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connector, which will be labeled as PCI-E by the
power supply. Some higher end graphics cards might
require two PCI-E connectors.
d) Now connect your drives (SDD, HDD, CD/Blu-Ray).
Most will require a SATA power connector. Older
drives might require ATA power connectors (check
appendix to identify the power connectors).
e) Make sure your USB connectors and case switches are
plugged into the motherboard.
f) Finally, connect the fans in your case to your power
supply.
5) Once everything is connected, close up the computer case.
Plug the power supply into the wall outlet (or surge
protector if you use one). Make sure the power supply
switch is set to on.
6) Power up the computer. If everything was connected
properly, the computer should power up.
CONGRATULATIONS ON BUILDING YOUR OWN
COMPUTER!

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Delivery
Method/Time
Wrapping-up the Session
Notes for
Facilitators
Discussion
10 min
SAY: Congratulations, you have all just built your own
computer! You all did a great job today following my
instructions and your guides. Remember that those are yours
to keep, take advantage of them as a resource to maintain
proper procedure when installing computer hardware
components. Again, you all did really great work today. To
wrap-up our training, I first want to ask; are there any final
questions about the training, installing hardware, a specific
component’s function, or anything else from today?
Great. Now, If you turn to the last page of your guides, you
will see a survey. This survey is to get some of your thoughts
from today’s session. Take your time on these so we can
continue to improve our training design and content. Your
responses hold a lot of weight in our evaluations. After
finishing the survey, take it out of the guide and bring it up to
me. After that you are free to go. I hope you all enjoyed
yourselves, and thank you for attending today’s training!
 Collect the Training Survey from each trainee
 Each session
will be
different.
Modify your
closing to suit
each session
respectively.
 Thank each
trainee for
attending as
they turn in
survey. Answer
any final
questions.
Supporting
Materials
Guide

2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
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Hardware Manual
The purpose of this manual;
 To clearly define terms associated with each hardware component.
 To provide relevant information regarding variations in types/models for each
component.
 To provide more in depth information for purchasing and combining hardware
components.
 To offer solutions and suggestions to common troubleshooting problems associated with
hardware installation.
Use this manual as a resource together with the guide to ensure thorough and accurate working
knowledge of computer hardware and installation.
Other resources include; www.logicalincrements.com – a great website for anyone interested in
computer building. Has well organized information for beginners and experts.
Key Components - Definitions, Variations and Things to Consider
Computer Case – Also called a tower or box, the computer case physically contains all of the actual
components inside of a computer.
Power Supply Connectors - Used for connecting to modern hard drives and CD/DVD drives to
power them.
SATA power connectors
1) Older components might require a 4-pin peripheral connector
a) Fans in your case will, typically, also require these types of connectors.
b) If you are putting a GPU into the computer, your power supply will need to have PCI-E
power connectors.
c) Some GPUs require two PCI-E connectors
Motherboard – the motherboard connects all of the parts of a computer together.
1) Know your motherboard type
a) Intel make or AMD make.

2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
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b) This will tell you what CPU to put in it (either Intel CPU or AMD)
2) Your motherboard will only supports certain types of RAM
a) For example, a motherboard might only support RAM that is 240-pin, DDR3 with speeds
of 1866, or 1333.
b) It is important to know this otherwise the RAM you buy might not fit into the
motherboard, or not run to its full potential resulting in a slower computer.
Graphic Processing Unit (GPU) – is a specialized electronic circuit designed to rapidly
manipulate and alter memory to accelerate the creation of images in a frame buffer intended for
output to a display.
1) This will be the biggest part of the computer, make sure you have room in your case for it!
2) Depending on how new it is, will require different slots on motherboard (PCI-E 3.0, 2.0, 1.0).
a) Luckily, they are backwards compatible meaning if your GPU uses PCI-E 3.0, it will
work on a PCI-E 2.0 motherboard slot. The only downside is it might run slower.
3) Also make sure your motherboard has the PCI-E slot you need (e.g. PCIe x16)
Central Processing Unit – is responsible for interpreting and executing most of the commands
from the computer’s hardware and software.
1) Make sure your CPU matches the motherboard (Intel CPU with Intel motherboard, AMD
with AMD).
2) Also check the socket type of your motherboard and CPU.
a) For example, an AMD CPU might say it is an AM3 socket. Make sure you buy a
motherboard that supports the AM3 socket type.

2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
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3) Make sure the heatsink you buy is compatible with your CPU
a) If you spend a few extra dollars, you can get a CPU/heatsink combo that takes the
guessing out of the whole process.
Random Access Memory (RAM) – is the “working memory” in a computer. RAM allows a
computer to work with more information at the same time, which determines total system
performance.
1) Make sure your RAM is supported by your motherboard, as stated in the motherboard section
of the appendix.
2) Motherboards will only support a certain amount of RAM.
a) E.g. some motherboards will state that the max RAM supported is 16 GB.
Hard Disk Drive - is the main, and usually largest, data storage hardware device in a computer.
Most files are stored on the HDD, designated as the “C” drive on most computers by default.
Optical Disc Drive – retrieves and/or stores data on optical discs like CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray
discs.
*Definitional information found at; http://pcsupport.about.com/od/termshm/g/hardware.htm
Troubleshooting
Unfortunately, especially when working with computers, not everything goes as planned. Even if
you are a seasoned veteran when it comes to building a computer, things can go wrong. This
section is to try and help with some possible issues that might arise.
Motherboard seems unstable after installing it.
1) Check to make sure all of the standoffs you installed have a screw in them to secure the
motherboard.
2) Make sure that every screw is tight, but remember not to make them too tight.
3) Make sure you have the correct motherboard for your case.
CPU won’t slide into the socket.
1) Check that you have the proper CPU for the motherboard you have.

2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
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2) Make sure that the notch/triangle on the CPU lines up with the notch/triangle on the socket.
3) Check the CPU pins to see if any were bent.
a) If you see a bent pins, use needle nose pliers to straighten them out.
b) Be careful when doing this, the pins are delicate and can be easily broken, ruining the
CPU.
RAM will not fit into the sockets.
1) Look to see if the notch in the RAM is lining up with the break in the motherboard.
2) Make sure the type of RAM you have is supported by your motherboard.
Finished installing everything but computer will not power up.
1) Make sure the computer is plugged in and the power supply switch is set to ON.
2) Make sure everything in the computer is plugged into the power supply, starting with the
motherboard.
Computer powers up for a few minutes but then turns off unexpectedly
1) Check to see if the CPU cooler is connected to power.
2) Make sure no wires are in the way of the CPU cooler’s fan.
a) Wires can get caught in the fan, causing it to stop working and overheating the CPU.
3) Make sure the fans in your case are connected to the power supply.
Computer starts up, makes a sequence of beeps then either turns off, enters into a restart loop, or
sits at a black screen.
1) Unfortunately, this could be a variety of things.
2) Certain sequences of beeps mean different things from bad RAM, to a failed hard drive, to
various other issues.
3) You will have to look up your motherboard on Google and what the beeps it made means.

2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
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Training Evaluation Survey:
1. How important was the resource manual to your learning?
1 2 3 4 5
Not Important Somewhat Important Essential
2. How important were the trainer’s facilitation and assistance to your learning?
1 2 3 4 5
Not Important Somewhat Important Essential
3. How confident do you feel in using your current knowledge to make an accurate and
satisfying decision in your next computer purchase?
1 2 3 4 5
Not Confident Somewhat Confident Very Confident
4. How confident do you feel in being able to accurately describe the functions
associated with each computer hardware component utilized in the training session?
1 2 3 4 5
Not Confident Somewhat Confident Very Confident
5. Please rate your overall experience with the training.
1 2 3 4 5
Awful Adequate Excellent
6. Based on your experience at this training class, how likely are you to attend future
training class with us?
1 2 3 4 5
Awful Adequate Excellent
7. Please indicate your favorite aspect of the training:
8. Please indicate your least favorite aspect of the training:

2014-2015 Prestige DTM 12.2.2014
Page23
Please indicate in the space below any additional feedback or suggestions on how to
improve this training program:
THANK YOU!

How to Build a Computer - Training Guide (Facilitator)

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