CPU & COOLING
This component is installed into the CPU socket and performs the instructions that make the computer work.
What is the CPU (processor)?
RAM is installed into these long slots located on the motherboard.
What are DIMM slots?
SATA stands for this.
What is Serial ATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment)?
NIC stands for this.
What is a Network Interface Card/Controller?
This motherboard form factor is commonly designed for full-size cases and can support up to seven expansion slots.
What is ATX?
This material is applied between the CPU and heat sink to improve the transfer of heat.
What is thermal paste?
These markings on the motherboard can help a technician determine which RAM slots should be used.
What are slot labels/color coding?
These two common storage devices can be connected to a motherboard using SATA connections.
What are SSDs and HDDs?
A NIC provides this major function to a computer.
What is network connectivity?
Motherboard form factor describes the motherboard's physical size, shape, and this important feature.
What is layout/placement of components and mounting points?
Before installing the CPU, a technician should make sure these markings on the CPU and socket are correctly aligned.
What are the alignment marks/notches?
A RAM module is properly installed when these small clips on the DIMM slot lock into place.
What are the retaining clips/latches?
These ports on the motherboard are used to connect SATA storage devices.
Answer: What are SATA ports?
A technician installing an expansion NIC will normally place it into one of these motherboard slots.
What is a PCIe slot?
When selecting a motherboard for a computer case, a technician must make sure these two things are compatible.
What are the motherboard form factor and case?
This component sits on top of the CPU and transfers heat away from it.
What is the heat sink?
If RAM is not completely seated, the computer may fail to do this during startup.
What is POST/boot successfully?
A SATA storage drive typically needs a SATA data connection and this other type of connection to operate.
What is SATA power?
Before installing a NIC, a technician should make sure the motherboard has one of these available.
What is an available compatible PCIe slot?
ATX motherboards are generally larger than these smaller motherboard form factors.
What are Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX?
Put these steps in the correct order:
A. Attach the heat sink/fan
B. Apply thermal paste
C. Install the CPU into the socket
What is C → B → A?
A technician pushes a RAM module into a DIMM slot, but the notch doesn't line up. What should the technician do?
What is stop and check the orientation/notch instead of forcing it?
A technician installs a new SATA SSD but the computer doesn't recognize it. Name two things the technician should check.
SATA data cable/connection
SATA power connection
BIOS/UEFI detection
Drive configuration
A computer has a working NIC installed, but it still cannot connect to the network. Name two things the technician could check.
Network cable
NIC drivers
Network settings
Link/activity lights
Switch/router connection
NIC enabled in BIOS/UEFI
A technician has a full-size ATX case and wants maximum room for expansion cards. Which motherboard form factor would be an appropriate choice?
What is ATX?