Power Supplies
This component converts AC power from a wall outlet into DC power for a computer.
What is a power supply unit (PSU)?
This type of cooling system uses a pump and liquid coolant instead of air to regulate temperature.
What is a liquid cooling system?
If a computer beeps but does not display anything on the screen, the issue may be related to this component.
What is the RAM?
This chipset component controls communication between the CPU, RAM, and GPU.
What is the northbridge?
Before working inside a computer, you should always do this to prevent electrical damage to components.
What is ground yourself?
This rating measures the efficiency of a power supply in converting AC to DC power.
What is the 80 PLUS certification?
The CPU cooler is usually made of this metal, known for its high thermal conductivity.
What is copper?
If a PC does not boot and displays a “No Boot Device Found” message, this component may be disconnected or failing.
What is the hard drive (or SSD)?
The main power connector for modern motherboards typically has this many pins.
What is 24?
This type of surge protector helps prevent power fluctuations from damaging a PC.
What is an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)?
This type of power supply allows you to disconnect unused cables to improve airflow and organization.
What is a modular power supply?
A PC shutting down unexpectedly or running sluggishly could be a symptom of this issue.
What is overheating?
A system that fails to boot and displays a "CMOS Checksum Error" may have an issue with this small battery.
What is the CMOS battery?
This slot is used to install modern graphics cards.
What is PCIe x16?
The process of applying new thermal compound to a CPU is known as this.
What is re-pasting?
If a PC does not turn on and there are no lights or fans running, this is the first component you should check.
What is the power supply?
This type of fan configuration brings cool air into the computer case.
What is an intake fan?
To troubleshoot a motherboard failure, a technician may use this device to test voltage levels and power output.
What is a multimeter?
This small connector on the motherboard provides power to the CPU.
What is the 4-pin or 8-pin CPU power connector?
If a power supply is suspected of being faulty, this device can be used to test its output voltages.
What is a power supply tester?
This unit of measurement is used to determine the total power output of a power supply.
What is a watt?
The buildup of this common household substance can clog fans and lead to overheating.
What is dust?
This special key, often pressed during startup, allows users to access the BIOS/UEFI setup utility.
What is the DEL (Delete) or F2 key?
Older motherboards may use this type of BIOS firmware, which has been largely replaced by UEFI.
What is Legacy BIOS?
To remove dust from inside a computer case, technicians commonly use this tool instead of a vacuum.
What is compressed air?