IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software v4.0
Chapter 3 – Lab\Instructor
Exploring Virtual Desktop
Name Key
As you use Virtual Desktop to practice putting a computer together, answer the following
questions.
1. Why do you think you are asked to install the RAM and CPU on the motherboard before installing the
motherboard in the case? It’s a good idea to install the RAM and CPU while the motherboard is still on the
antistatic mat because you have more room to work with the board when it’s outside the case.
2. Is it possible to install the RAM backwards? No. Why or why not? RAM is keyed. The notch prevents it from
being installed the wrong way.
3. What is the significance of the triangle on one corner of the CPU? The triangle denotes pin 1 of the CPU.
4. What is the purpose of the thermal compound? Thermal compound creates a better connection between the
heat sink and fan. It fills in the tiny imperfections for a better transfer of heat away from the CPU.
5. Why is it important to ensure the motherboard standoffs line up with the holes on your particular
motherboard? If too few standoffs are installed in the case, the motherboard is not supported well and can be
damaged as components are added or removed. If extra standoffs are added to the case, they can shortcircuit the board by making connections between bus lines.
6. Based on the size and position of the expansion slot, what type of NIC is installed in this motherboard? The
NIC uses the PCIe bus.
Note: You may need outside assistance to answer some of the questions regarding the motherboard. The
following web sites will help.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motherboard
http://computer.howstuffworks.com/pci-express.htm
7. What type of wireless NIC is installed in this motherboard? The wireless NIC is a PCI NIC.
8. What type of graphics card is installed in this motherboard? The graphics card is installed in the AGP
expansion slot.
9. Why was it important to know where the PATA pin 1 was located? The blue stripe on the ribbon cable must
connect pin 1 on the motherboard to pin 1 on the drive.
10. What type of hard drive was installed? The hard drive was a SATA drive.
11. Name the power connector that attaches to a floppy drive. The floppy drive uses a berg connector for power.
12. Name the power connector that attaches to the CD drive. The CD drive uses a molex connector.
13. Why is it a good idea to install a ribbon cable before connecting power to drives? The ribbon cable is located
further inside the case. It’s better to install it first so you don’t have to work around the power cable.
14. What type of port or interface did the video card have? The video card had a DVI port.
15. What type of connector did the keyboard use and what was its color? The keyboard used a purple PS/2
connector.
16. What is the name of the connector used to make the Ethernet connection? The Ethernet cable had an RJ-45
connector.
Cisco Networking Academy