Parts of a computer and their purposes

Mouse - Used for making selections. There are two buttons on a mouse. Most actions are performed using the left mouse button. Some mice have cords and some do not.

The motherboard - part of the computer where such things as the processor, memory modules, expansion cards and external devices are attached. It controls the functions of different components. The number of connection slots for peripheral devices and the number and type of memory slots are important properties of the motherboard.

In addition to the various connections, the motherboard also has a small battery ensuring that settings made on the board are retained even when the computer is switched off.

The processor - The processor can be considered to be the ‘engine’ of the computer because it executes the lion’s share of the information processing; the processor fetches commands and necessary information from the RAM, carries out the tasks specified by the commands, and returns the processed information to the RAM. The speed of a computer depends largely on the speed of the processor.

Random access memory - The RAM (Random Access Memory) is a memory storage that functions during computer use and is especially utilised by the processor. In modern computers, the amount of RAM is around 4 – 16 GB depending on the type and purpose of the computer The RAM consists of one or more memory modules. If there is enough RAM, the computer executes requested tasks quickly. This is why it is a good idea to add to the memory by buying more memory modules as the need arises.

Hard drive - The hard drive is the permanent memory of the computer where saved files remain even when the computer is turned off. This is why the hard drive is used for saving files.

The capacity of hard drives varies; currently the typical capacity is 500-1000 GB, but hard drives of over 1500 GB, i.e. 1,5 terabite, are also available. However, the capacity of the internal hard drives in laptop computers is often less than that.

Hard disk - It is used for the storage of the computer’s operating system and all important files. It is therefore packed in a fixed protective housing. The disks may become damaged in spite of this protection, so you should absolutely make backup copies of files on the hard drive from time to time.

DVD and Blu-ray drives with writing capabilities - Most computers these days come with a Blu-ray drive or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk) drive with writing capabilities, with which you can burn such things as backup copies of important files to DVDs. CD drives are older and have mostly been replaced with DVD drives. CD drives can only burn data on CDs, which have a substantially smaller storage capacity, while DVD drives can burn data to both CDs and DVDs with more capacity.

The display and display adapter - Most computer displays are so-called LCD displays (Liquid Crystal Display), where the image display is produced by liquid crystals between two transparent sheets. Display sizes range between only a few inches in handheld apparatuses to large 24 inch desktop displays.

One of the most important features of the display is its resolution, i.e. how many pixels (picture elements) the image consists of.  A normal 22 to 24-inch widescreen display usually has 1920 pixels horizontally and 1200 pixels vertically (1920×1200). These displays can reproduce FullHD (full high definition) image.

Keyboard - A standard keyboard has 102 keys. The keys are divided into alphabetical (a-z), numerical (1-0) and special (Function, Ctrl, Alt etc keys).

Video card - The video card is an expansion card that allows the computer to send graphical information to a video display device such as a monitor, TV, or projector. 

A sound card - An internal computer expansion card that facilitates economical input and output of audio signals to and from a computer under control of computer programs.

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Source: 

http://blogs.helsinki.fi/ict-driving-licence/1-introduction-to-the-use-of-computers/1-1-computer-functionality/basic-parts-and-functionality-of-the-computer/

Image sources:
Mouse
Motherboard
The processor

Random access memory (RAM)
Hard Drive
Hard Disk

DVD and Blu-ray drives with writing capabilities

The display and display adapter

Keyboard
Video card
Sound card

Common Malfunction in Hand Tools, Equipment and Paraphernalia

The proper use of tools, equipment and paraphernalia will greatly increase efficiency and occupational safety in a workplace. Having the proper knowledge and skills in using such tools is needed in order to operate and use them effectively. But more often than not, problems and malfunctions may arise while using these tools. These malfunctions can be minimized by exercising careful usage of the tools.

Malfunctions and other unplanned and unusual event may not be totally eliminated, but it can surely be minimized.

Listed below are some of the malfunctions and unplanned events when using the different tools in completing a job requirement:

1. When using a driving tool, screws may slip the tip of the screw driver. This happens when the screw driver is not properly aligned with drive of the screw’s head. This can be minimized by making sure that the tip of the screw driver is well secured in the drive of the screw’s head. Using a screw driver with a magnetized tip can also help minimize this type of malfunction.
2. Small objects tend to fall down when being held by a gripping tool like pliers. This usually happens when the jaws of the pliers are blunt, thus making it hard to hold on things. This can be prevented by making sure that gripping tools have well maintained jaws that can grasp objects properly.

Listed below are some of the malfunctions and unplanned events when using the different tools in completing a job requirement:

1. The use of striking tools also imposes a great threat if there will be a malfunction. 
2. Common hazards are heads separating away from the handle. 
3. This could cause severe injuries to anyone. 
4. To avoid this type of accident, the handle of a striking tool must be tightly attached to its head.
5. Mishaps in using cutting tools is also dangerous. 
6. Malfunctions may arise from slippage of the material to be cut.
7. This may also happen if a cutting tool is not sharp enough. 
8. These unplanned events will cause laceration and wounds to the user.
9.  To avoid this, cutting tools must always be kept sharp. Power tools also impose danger during mishaps. 
10. Common problems are electrical short circuiting or mechanical problems. Malfunctioning power tools may cause electrocution and even decapitation of the limbs.
11.  These accidents can be avoided by making sure that all power tools are well maintained and are in fit operating condition.
12. Diagnostic tools may not impose a threat to the well-being of a worker but inaccurate reading may compromise the completion of a job requirement. 
13. Inaccurate reading may occur if a diagnostic tool is not properly calibrated. To avoid this, a regular calibration to all diagnostic tools must be done.

THINGS TO REMEMBER:

There is certainly no absolute way to avoid any unforeseen malfunctions.The only way to minimize them is to have the appropriate knowledge in using the different tools.Proper inspection and assessment of tools must also be practiced to ensure the safety of the worker and the accurate completion of a job requirement.Having a first aid kit in the work area is also necessary so that quick response and cure can be applied in case of any injuries.

Source: https://school.quipper.com/en-PH/index.html

Procedures in Cleaning, Tightening and Simple Repair of Hand Tools, Equipment and Paraphernalia

Hand tools and equipment are subjected to different levels of abuse while in use. These abuses may result in the tools being dirty, loosely connected or even damaged. Before using any tool or equipment, it is a must that they be inspected properly to ensure that they are operational and safe.

The things needed to keep hand tools, equipment and paraphernalia clean are the following:

1. Make sure that the workplace is properly organized.
2. The work area must always be kept neat and tidy.
3. All tools and equipment must be placed in a clean and dry place.
4. Clean tools and equipment work more efficiently, this lessens the effort needed to operate them and reduces the possibility of mishaps.Before cleaning any tool, be sure to wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). 
5. Gloves, masks and goggles are usually worn when cleaning tools since most cleaning agents and solutions are harmful to the human body.
6. Only use cleaning agents as prescribed by the tool or equipment’s manufacturer. 
7. Follow the cleaning procedures as well to make sure that no damage will be inflicted on the tools.
8. Cleaning the tools after use is highly recommended.

Tools with moving parts often suffer loosening of its parts. This is normal since these segments keep on moving. A tool with loose parts will not function properly and may cause injuries.Gripping tools such as a plier is an example that needs tightening. A plier’s rivet must be well tightened to be able to grip properly.Lubricants must also be applied after tightening to reduce the friction.Driving tools’ handles must also be tightened to reduce hand strain when turning. A loosely connected handle will make it almost impossible to use it.

In doing simple repair of tools, make sure that you are knowledgeable in doing so. Repairing tools without sufficient skills may result to further damage or inflict injuries to the fixer. Small repairs like tightening, sharpening and changing of handles may not require special skills to do. Power tools and specialized equipment on the other hand may require specialized skills in repairing. It is recommended that complicated tools and equipment be brought to the authorized service center. If a tool or equipment is beyond repair, it must be disposed properly.


REMEMBER : It is the responsibility of everyone to maintain the good operating condition of all the hand tools, equipment and paraphernalia in the workplace. Since these tools help in the completion of the different job requirements, keeping them well preserved will make work easier and more efficient.

Source: https://school.quipper.com/en-PH/index.html

Safety Procedures in Using Hand Tools and Equipment

• Only tools and equipment which are in good condition may be used.
• Tools shall only be used for the purpose for which they were designed.
• Employees shall make frequent inspections of tools and equipment, and immediately remove from service any items found defective. 
• The following are examples of the types of defects which should be looked for: 

1. broken cracked, or splintered wooden handles
2. Mushroomed heads on chisels or impact drills.
3. Wrench jaws which slip or do not hold.
4. Frayed cords, damaged or modified grounding plugs, or broken insulation on electrical tools.
5. Rounded edges on sharp-edged tools.
6. Dull cutting tools.

• When using hand tools, the employee shall place himself in such a position that he will avoid injury if the tool slips.
• Only soft faced hammers (brass, plastic, rubber, or similar materials) shall be used on highly tempered steel tools such as cold chisels, star drills, etc.
•  Proper eye protection must be worn when performing such an operation.
• Files, rasps, and other tools having sharp tangs shall be equipped with approved handles.
• Tools which are not in use shall be placed where they will not present a tripping or stumbling hazard.
• Pointed tools shall never be carried edge or point up in pockets.
• Tools shall not be thrown from one worker to another, or to another working location.
• Extensions shall not be used on wrenches to gain leverage unless the wrench is designed to be used in such a fashion.
• When cutting wire or any other material under tension, the material being cut shall be secured to prevent the ends from snapping free.
• All power tools must be properly grounded before their use.
• Gloves shall not be worn when operating lathes, drill presses, power saws, or similar equipment.
•  Loose clothing must not be worn and long sleeves should be rolled up prior to operation.
• Hooks, brushes, vacuums, or special tools shall be used to remove dust or chips. Compressed air shall not be used.
• All machinery must be turned off when unattended.Maintenance, repairs, adjustments, and measurements must not be made while saws, lathes, grinders, and similar equipment are in operation.
• Compressed air shall never be used to dust off clothing, or be directed toward another person.
• Sawblades, gears, sprockets, chains, shafts, pulleys, belts, and similar apparatus shall not be operated without the proper guarding like goggles, or face shields that should be worn when operating power tools.

Source: http://www.cmu.edu/ehs/occupational-office/workplace-safety/tools-and-equipment.html

Tools for computer hardware servicing

1. Anti-Static Wrist Strap - This device is used to prevent ESD (Electro-Static Discharge) damage to a computer equipment.

2. Anti-Static Mat - This tool is used to stand on or place hardware on to prevent static electricity   from building up.

3. Flat Head Screwdriver - This tool is used to loosen or tighten slotted screws.

4. Philips Head Screwdriver - This tool is used to loosen or tighten cross-head screws.

5. Torx Screwdriver - This type of screwdriver is used to loosen or tighten screws that have a star-like depression on the top.

6. Hex Driver - Also called a nut driver, the hex driver is used to tighten nuts in the same way a screwdriver tightens screws.

7. Needle-Nose Pliers - The needle-nose pliers is used to hold small parts.

8. Wire Cutter - The  wire cutter is used to strip and cut wires.

9. Tweezers - Tweezers are used to manipulate small parts.

10. Part Retriever - This tool is used to retrieve parts from locations that are too small for your hands to fit.

11. Flashlight - The flashlight is used to light up areas that you cannot see well.

12. Lint-Free  Cloth - This cleaning tool is used to clean different computer components without scratching or leaving debris.

13. Compressed Air - Compressed air  is a cleaning tool used to blow away dust and debris from different computer parts without touching the components.

14. Cable Ties - Cable ties are used to neatly bundle cables inside and outside the computer.

15. Part Organizer - The part organizer is like your usual organizer but instead is used to hold screws,  jumpers, fasteners, and other small parts and prevents them from getting mixed together.

Picture credits: Google images