ASSEMBLING AND DISASSEMBLING A SYSTEM UNIT

Before you start

Before diving into assembling or disassembling your desktop computer, it’s crucial to gather the
necessary tools and set up your workstation properly. Here’s what you’ll need and how to prepare:

Tools Required
• Phillips-head screwdriver: Essential for most screws in a computer case.
• Flat-head screwdriver: Useful for prying open cases or removing certain types of screws.
• Anti-static wrist strap: Prevents static electricity from damaging sensitive components.
• Thermal paste: Needed if you’re installing or reinstalling a CPU cooler.
• Cable ties or Velcro straps: Helps manage and organize cables.
• Small container or magnetic tray: Keeps screws and small parts organized.
• Flashlight: Handy for seeing inside dark corners of the case.
Setting Up Your Station
• Work on a clean, flat surface: Ensure you have ample space to lay out all components
and tools.
• Use an anti-static mat: If available, this can further protect against static electricity.
• Good lighting: Make sure your workspace is well-lit to avoid mistakes.
• Comfortable seating: You’ll be spending some time here, so make sure you’re
comfortable.
• Keep a notebook or camera handy: Documenting the process can help you remember
where everything goes, especially during disassembly.
Cooling Down Period

The cooling down period is an essential step before disassembling your computer. After shutting
down your system, it’s advisable to wait at least 15-30 minutes to allow components like the CPU,
GPU, and power supply to cool down. These parts can reach high temperatures during operation,
and handling them while they’re still hot can cause burns or damage the components. Additionally,
this waiting period helps ensure that any residual electricity has dissipated, reducing the risk of
electric shock. By allowing your computer to cool down, you create a safer environment for
disassembly and protect both yourself and your hardware from potential harm.

Step-by-step how to disassemble your desktop computer

Step 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.
Step 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.

Step 3: Disconnect connectors

In this step, you’ll need to carefully disconnect all the connectors inside your desktop computer.
Start by identifying and unplugging the power cables that connect the power supply to the
motherboard, CPU, GPU, and other components. Next, disconnect the data cables, such as SATA
cables, that link your hard drives, SSDs, and optical drives to the motherboard. Be sure to also
unplug any additional connectors for USB ports, audio jacks, and front panel buttons. It’s
important to handle each connector gently to avoid damaging the pins or sockets. Once all the
connectors are safely disconnected, you can proceed to remove any card readers and internal DVD
players. These devices are typically secured with screws, so use a screwdriver to carefully unscrew
them and slide them out of their slots. By thoroughly disconnecting all connectors, you’ll ensure
that each component is free from the case and motherboard, making the disassembly process
smoother and safer.

Step 4: Remove standalone fans

In this step, you’ll be removing the standalone fans from your desktop computer. These fans are
crucial for maintaining proper airflow and cooling your system, so it’s important to handle them
with care.

First, locate all the standalone fans inside your case. These are usually attached to the front, back,
or top of the case. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screws that secure the fans to the
case. Keep these screws in a safe place for reassembly. Carefully lift the fans out of their positions,
ensuring you don’t snag any wires or components.

Next, it’s time to clean the fans. Use a can of compressed air to blow dust off the fan blades and
housing. Hold the fan blades in place to prevent them from spinning while you clean. For a more
thorough cleaning, use a soft cloth or cotton swabs dampened with isopropyl alcohol to wipe down
the blades and the fan frame. Be careful to avoid getting any liquid into the motor. While cleaning,
inspect the fan blades and housing for any signs of damage or wear. Replace any fans that are
damaged or not functioning properly.

Cleaning your fans has several benefits. Clean fans operate more efficiently, improving airflow
and helping to keep your computer components cool. Dust and debris can cause fans to work harder
and make more noise, so cleaning them can result in quieter operation. Regular maintenance of
your fans can also extend their lifespan and the overall longevity of your computer.
Step 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.
Step 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.
Step 7: Remove power supply unit

Remove the power supply unit by unplugging the remaining connectors, then unscrewing the unit
from the frame.

Step 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.

Step 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 your computer, start by inserting the components in the reverse order of how
you removed them, beginning with the motherboard. Carefully place the motherboard back into
the case and secure it with screws. Next, install the CPU and apply a small amount of thermal paste
before attaching the CPU cooler. Ensure the cooler is firmly in place.

After the motherboard and CPU are set, insert the RAM modules into their respective slots, making
sure they click into place. Then, install the GPU by aligning it with the PCIe slot and securing it
with screws. Follow this by installing any additional expansion cards, such as network or sound
cards, in their appropriate slots.

Next, reattach the storage drives (HDDs or SSDs) and any optical drives. Secure them with screws
and connect the SATA data and power cables. If you have any standalone fans, reattach them to
their original positions and connect the power cables.

As you insert each component, plug in all the necessary cables. Most components will connect to
the motherboard and the power supply unit (PSU). Ensure all power connectors, including the 24-
pin ATX and 8-pin CPU power connectors, are securely attached. Reconnect any front panel
connectors for USB ports, audio jacks, and power/reset buttons.

Double-check all connections to ensure everything is properly seated and secured. Once all
components are in place and connected, close the case and secure it with screws. Finally, plug in
your monitor, keyboard, mouse, and any other peripherals.