COMPUTER HARDWARE

SERVICING
SPTVE - Grade 8
Name:
Grade/Section:
Date: _______________ Total Score:

Topic: Proper Tool Selection

Learning Competencies & Code: LO 1. Prepare hand tools and equipment for computer
hardware servicing; Code: TLE_ICTCS7/8UT-0a-1
Concept/Short Input: When performing a maintenance and troubleshooting in computer
hardware servicing you will often need of hand tools to do the task. A tool is a handheld
device that aids in accomplishing a task. Using proper handling of tools will prevent
accidents and damage to the equipment.
Preparing for the task to be undertaken includes proper tool selection
1. Plan and understand in the detail the scope and sequence of tasks to be accomplished.
2. Select the best tool for each task that requires training in handling proper use of tools
and read manufacturer’s guidance and instructions for specific tool.
3. When obtaining all tool and consumable parts must be associated according to their
manufacturer’s instructions.
Safe Use of tools
1. Use the tool for the purpose for which it was designed.
2. Always observed DO’s and DONT’s for your safety.
3. If there are set-up/use options, operator judgment must always be based on what is
the safest way to use the tool.
Environmental Safety and Health Program
1. All tools must be kept in good condition with regular maintenance
2. Always used tools with the right job
3. Examined each tool before using and damaged or defective tools not to be used
4. Tools must be operated according to manufacturer’s guide or instructions
5. Use the correct personal protective equipment when using the tool for the activity
HARDWARE TOOLS
For every hardware repairs, it is important that you are familiar with the correct use of each
tool and ensures that tasks are performed properly and safely. A toolkit should contain all the

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tools necessary to complete hardware repairs. Hardware tools are grouped into four
categories:
⮚ Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) tools
⮚ Hand tools
⮚ Cleaning tools
⮚ Diagnostic tools
Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) tools is one of the few things you can do to damage or
destroy your computer or parts in your computer. It is easily generated by friction on carpets,
tile flooring, clothing, hair, fabric, and etc. There are two ESD tools: the anti-static wrist strap
and the anti-static mat.

Anti-static wrist strap – used to protects computer

Image Dreamtime.com
equipment when grounded to a computer chassis.

Anti-static mat – used to protects computer equipment by

Image Clipart.Email preventing static electricity from accumulating

on the hardware or on the technician.

Hand tools are used in the computer assembly process. They are available individually or as
part of a computer repair toolkit which range widely in size, quality, and price. Example of
hand tools are:
Flat-head screwdriver – used to tighten or loosen slotted

screws

Image Dreamtime.com

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 Philips-head screwdriver – used to tighten or loosen cross-

headed Screws

Image Dreamtime.com

Torx screwdriver – used to tighten or loosen screws that

have a star-like depression on the top; a feature that is

mainly found on laptops

Hex driver – used to tighten or loosen nuts in the same way

that a screwdriver tightens or loosen screw (sometimes

called a nut driver)

Needle-nose pliers – used to hold small parts

Image
Dreamtime.com

Wire cutters – used to strip and cut wires

Tweezers – used to manipulate small parts

Part retriever – used to retrieve parts from locations that

are too small for your hand to fit

Flashlight – used to light up areas that you cannot see well.

Wire stripper – used to remove the insulation from wire so

that it can be twisted to other wires or crimped to

connectors to make a cable.

Crimper – used to attach connectors to wires

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 Punch-down tool – used to terminate wire into termination

blocks. Some cable connectors must be connected to

cables using a punch down tool

Cleaning tools using the appropriate cleaning tools helps ensure that computer components
are not damaged during maintenance and repairing computers.
Lint free cloth – used to clean different computer

components without scratching or leaving debris.

Compressed air – used to blow away dust and debris from

different computer parts without touching the

components

Cable ties – used to bundle cables neatly inside and outside

of a computer

Parts organizer – used to hold screws, jumpers, fasteners,

and other small parts and prevents them from getting

mixed together

Diagnostic tools used to test and diagnose equipment

Multimeter – used to test the integrity of circuits and the

quality or electricity in computer components

Loopback adapter – also called a loopback plug, test the

basic functionality of computer ports.

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How far have you learned?
Topic: LO1 Prepare hand tools
Instruction: Identify each pictures below of hardware tools into each categories. Write your
answer on the space provided for.
● Electro-static Discharge tools
● Hand tools
● Cleaning tools
● Diagnostic tools

1. __________________ 6.
__________________

2. _________________ 7. __________________

3. _________________ 8. ___________________

4. _________________
Image
Clipart.Email 9. ___________________

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 5. _________________ 10.
___________________

Explain in your own words – What is proper tool selection?

__________________________________________________________________________________

If you are practicing as a computer technician, how you are going to maintain and segregate hand
tools in computer hardware servicing?

__________________________________________________________________________________

Name:
Grade/Section:
Date: _______________ Total Score:

Topic: Proper Use of Tools

Learning Competencies & Code: LO 2. Use appropriate hand tools and test equipment
Concept/Short Input: When working with repair and maintenance of your appliances or
machines, a tool is an important thing to be used. It is important that you are familiar and
equipped with enough knowledge to properly use the tools you will need as computer
technician.

Proper Use of Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) Tools

The antistatic wrist strap is a conductor that connects your body to the equipment that you
are working on. When static electricity builds up in your body, the connection made by the
wrist strap to the equipment, or ground, channels the electricity through the wire that
connects the strap, keeping the charge between you and the equipment equal.

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 NOTE: Attach the wire on the same side of the equipment as the arm wearing the
antistatic wrist strap. This helps keep the wire out of the way while you are
working. Technician should roll up their sleeves, removes scarves or ties, and
tuck in shirts to prevent interference from clothing. Ensure that earrings,
necklaces, rings and other loose jewelry are properly secured.

CAUTION: Never wear an antistatic wrist strap if you are repairing a power supply
unit. Do not work on the internal components of a power supply unit unless
you have a specific electronics training.

An antistatic mat is slightly conducive. It works by drawing static electricity away from a
component and transferring it safely from equipment to a grounding point.

NOTE: When you are working at a workbench, ground the workbench and the
antistatic floor mat. By standing on the mat and wearing the wrist strap, your
body has the same charge as the equipment and reduces the probability of
ESD. Always handle components by the edges.

Watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5FswkQ4bi0

Proper Use of Hand Tools

A technician needs to be able to properly use each tool in the toolkit. A toolkit provides you
with all of the tools you will need to repair and maintain computer sets.

Screws
Match each screw with the proper screwdriver. Place the tip of the screwdriver on the head of
the screw. Turn the screwdriver clockwise to tighten the screw and counter clockwise to
loosen the screw.
Screws can become stripped if you do not use the correct size and type of screwdriver. A
stripped screw may not tighten firmly or it may not be easily removed. Discard stripped
screws.

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Flat Head Screwdriver
Use a flat head screwdriver when you are working with a slotted screw. Do not use a flat
head screwdriver to remove a Phillips head screw. Never use a screwdriver as a pry bar. If
you cannot remove a component, check to see if there is a clip or latch that is securing the
component in place.
CAUTION: If excessive force is needed to remove or add a component, something is
probably wrong. Take a second look to make sure that you have not
missed a screw or a locking clip that is holding the component in place.
Refer to the device manual or diagram for additional information.

Phillips Head Screwdriver

Use a Phillips head screwdriver with crosshead screws. Do not use this type of screwdriver to
puncture anything. This will damage the head of the screwdriver.
Hex Driver
Use a hex driver to loosen and tighten bolts that have a hexagonal (six-sided) head. Hex bolts
should not be over-tightened because the threads of the bolts can be damaged. Do not use a
hex driver that is too large for the bolt that you are using.
CAUTION: Some tools are magnetized. When working around electronic devices, be
sure that the tools you are using have not been magnetized. Magnetic
fields can be harmful to data stored on magnetic media. Magnetic tools
can also induce current, which can damage internal computer
components. Test your tool by touching the tool with a screw. If the
screw is attracted to the tool, do not use the tool.

Component Retrieving Tools

A parts retriever is used to place and retrieve parts that may be hard to reach with your
fingers. Do not scratch or hit any components when using these tools.
CAUTION: Pencils should not be used inside the computer to change the setting of
switches. The pencil lead can act as a conductor and may damage the
computer components.
Various specialty tools, such as Torx bits, antistatic bags and gloves, and integrated circuit
pullers, can be used to repair and maintain computers. Always avoid magnetized tools, such
as screwdrivers with magnetic heads, or tools that use extension magnets to retrieve small

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metal objects that are out of reach. Additionally, there are specialized testing devices used to
diagnose computer and cable problems:
● Multimeter—A device that measures AC/DC voltage, electric current, and other
electrical characteristics.
● Power supply tester—A device that checks whether the computer power supply is
working properly. A simple power supply tester might just have indicator lights,
whereas more advanced versions show the amount of voltage and amperage.
● Cable tester—A device that checks for wiring shorts, faults, or wires connected to the
wrong pins.
● Loopback plug—A device that connects to a computer, switch, or router port to
perform a diagnostic procedure called a loopback test. In a loopback test, a signal is
transmitted through a circuit and then returned to the sending device to test the
integrity of the data transmission.
Watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6p6Q6XIPxA0

Cleaning Materials
Keeping computers clean inside and out is a vital part of a maintenance program. Dirt can
cause problems with the physical operation of fans, buttons, and other mechanical
components. On electrical components, an excessive buildup of dust acts like an insulator and
traps the heat. This insulation impairs the ability of heat sinks and cooling fans to keep
components cool, causing chips and circuits to overheat and fail.
NOTE: When using compressed air to clean inside the computer, blow the air around
the components with a minimum distance of 4 inches (10 cm) from the
nozzle. Clean the power supply and the fan blowing from inside the
computer toward the fan at the back of the case so as not to blow dust back
into the system.
CAUTION: Before cleaning any device, turn it off and unplug the device from the
power source.

Computer Cases and Monitors

Clean computer cases and the outside of monitors with a mild cleaning solution on a damp,
lint-free cloth. Mix one drop of dishwashing liquid with 4 oz. (118 ml) of water to create the

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cleaning solution. If water drips inside the case, allow enough time for the liquid to dry
before powering on the computer.
LCD Screens
Clean dusty components with a can of compressed air. Compressed air does not cause
electrostatic buildup on components. Make sure that you are in a well ventilated area before
blowing the dust out of the computer. A best practice is to wear an air filter mask to make
sure that you do not breathe in the dust particles.
Blow out the dust using short bursts from the can. Never tip the can or use the can upside
down because doing so will cause the can to freeze.
Component Contacts
Use a lint-free cloth that is slightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol to clean the contacts on
components. Do not use rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol contains impurities that can
damage contacts. Before reinstallation, use compressed air to blow lint off the contacts.
Keyboards
Clean a desktop keyboard with compressed air and then use a handheld vacuum cleaner with
a brush attachment to remove the loose dust.
CAUTION: Never use a standard vacuum cleaner inside a computer case. The plastic
parts of the vacuum cleaner can build up static electricity and discharge to
the components. Use only vacuums that are approved for electronic
components.
Mouse
Use glass cleaner and a soft cloth to clean the outside of the mouse. Do not spray glass
cleaner directly on the mouse. If cleaning a ball mouse, you can remove the ball and clean it
with glass cleaner and a soft cloth. Wipe the rollers clean inside the mouse with the same
cloth. Do not spray any liquids inside the mouse.

Watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgBIsKeTLLk

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How far have you learned?
Topic: LO2 Proper use of hand tools

Instruction: Answer the following questions by writing the correct letter on the space
provided for.

__________ 1. Bingo was a commissioned to do a home service to repair a desktop

computer, before he will go to the customer what should he check and bring?
a. A mobile phone
b. A toolkit
c. A car key
d. A bag

__________ 2. Each student have a routine schedule to clean the computer sets at the
computer laboratory room. What precautionary measures before they will going to do the
cleaning.
a. Unplug all cables attach in the computer sets
b. Spray an alcohol in the computer components
c. Prepare wet lint free cloth for cleaning
d. Use soft broom in cleaning the computer sets

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__________ 3. Which tool can protect computer components from the effects of electro-static
discharge?
a. Surge suppressor
b. Uninterrupted power supply
c. Antistatic wrist strap
d. Standby power system

__________ 4. What is a proper directive for using a can of compressed air to clean a PC?
a. Do not spray the compressed air with the can upside down.
b. Use a long steady stream of air from the can
c. Blow compressed air with the minimum distance of 4 meters.
d. Do not use compressed air to clean a power supply fan.

__________ 5. Which type of fastener is loosened and tightened with a Philip head
screwdriver?
a. Six-sided bolt
b. Torx bolt
c. Slotted screw
d. Cross head screw

What are the specialized testing devices used to diagnose computer and cable problems?

a. ______________________________
b.______________________________
c. ______________________________
d. ______________________________

Why do you need to exercise proper hand tools in troubleshooting a computer system?

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

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Direction: Complete the computer cleaning chart shown below.

COMPUTER MAINTENANCE

COMPONENTS TO CLEAN CLEAN WITH:

Example: Computer case and Mild cleaning solution and lint free cloth
outside monitor

Keyboard

Mouse

LCD Screen

Speaker

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 Answer Key

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Janeliza H. Marajan
Writer

Digos City National High School

Reference:

IT Essentials: Computer Lab Procedures and Tool Use

https://www.ciscopress.com/articles/article.asp?p=2086239&seqNum=7

http://dreamstime.com

K to 12 – Technology and Livelihood Education: Computer Hardware

Servicing Module

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Schools Division of Digos City only. Copies are not for sale.

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Para sa mga katanungan o puna, sumulat o tumawag sa:

Department of Education - Bureau of Learning Resources (DepEd-BLR)

Ground Floor, Bonifacio Bldg., DepEd Complex

Meralco Avenue, Pasig City, Philippines 1600

Telefax: (632) 8634-1072; 8634-1054; 8631-4985

Email Address: blr.lrqad@deped.gov.ph *

blr.lrpd@deped.gov.ph