a) Meru University is upgrading their 600 office computers and needs to select the appropriate hardware components for their requirements.

Question

Required:
i) Discuss four factors that should be considered when choosing a motherboard for University computers productivity tasks.
ii) Explain how the University can ensure compatibility with existing computer hardware and peripherals.
iii) Recommend a specific motherboard form factor and model or series that would be suitable for the office computers.
iv) Explain the step by step procedure on how you would assemble a computer fully in readiness for usage for University use.
v) Distinguish between Zero insertion force socket and least insertion force socket Sockets in processors.
vi) Analyze the symptoms and potential causes of power supply-related issues.
vii) Discuss the diagnostic techniques and tools that the technicians can use to identify a faulty PSU and confirm its need for replacement.
viii) Explain the steps involved in removing the faulty PSU and installing a new one.
ix) Discuss the precautions and safety measures that should be followed during the PSU replacement process.
x) Distinguish between AT power supply unit form factor and ATX- PSU form factor.
xi) Discuss the various CPU package types and recommend the appropriate package type for Meru university computers.
xii) Discuss the various display unit technologies and recommend the appropriate type for Meru university computers.
xiii) DISCUSS the various factors to consider before upgrading processors for Meru university computers.
xiv) Discuss the various disk and disk drives and recommend the appropriate type for Meru university computers.
xv) Outline the procedure of installing the windows operating system on Meru university computers.

Answer 1

i) Four factors to consider when choosing a motherboard for University computers productivity tasks include:

1. CPU compatibility: Ensure that the motherboard is compatible with the processor being used in the computers to ensure optimal performance.
2. Expansion slots: Consider the number and type of expansion slots available on the motherboard to accommodate any additional components or upgrades that may be needed in the future.
3. Memory support: Make sure the motherboard supports the required amount and type of RAM needed for the productivity tasks.
4. Connectivity options: Consider the number and types of ports available on the motherboard for connecting peripherals and other devices.

ii) To ensure compatibility with existing computer hardware and peripherals, the University can check the specifications of the motherboard to ensure it supports the necessary interfaces and connectors for the components being used. They can also consult with the motherboard manufacturer or a computer technician for compatibility recommendations.

iii) A recommended motherboard form factor for the office computers at Meru University would be the Micro-ATX form factor. A specific model or series that could be suitable is the ASUS Prime B450M-A motherboard.

iv) The step-by-step procedure for assembling a computer fully for University use would include:
- Install the CPU onto the motherboard
- Install the RAM onto the motherboard
- Install the motherboard into the computer case
- Connect the power supply to the motherboard and other components
- Install the storage drive(s)
- Install the graphics card (if needed)
- Connect all necessary cables and peripherals
- Power on the computer and install the operating system

v) Zero insertion force socket and least insertion force sockets in processors refer to the amount of force required to insert the processor into the socket. Zero insertion force sockets require no force to insert the processor, while least insertion force sockets require a minimal amount of force.

vi) Power supply-related issues may include symptoms such as the computer not powering on, random shutdowns, or strange noises coming from the power supply unit. Potential causes could include a faulty power supply unit, overloaded power supply, or power surges.

vii) Diagnostic techniques and tools that technicians can use to identify a faulty PSU include using a multimeter to test the voltage outputs, visually inspecting the PSU for any physical damage, and using a PSU tester to check for proper functionality.

viii) The steps involved in removing a faulty PSU and installing a new one include:
- Unplugging all power cables from the PSU
- Removing the PSU from the computer case
- Installing the new PSU into the case
- Connecting all power cables to the new PSU

ix) Precautions and safety measures that should be followed during the PSU replacement process include ensuring the computer is powered off and unplugged, wearing an anti-static wrist strap, and following proper grounding techniques to prevent electrical damage.

x) The main difference between AT power supply unit form factor and ATX PSU form factor is the physical size and shape of the power supply unit. AT power supply units are larger and have a different connector layout compared to ATX power supply units.

xi) Various CPU package types include PGA (Pin Grid Array), LGA (Land Grid Array), and BGA (Ball Grid Array). A recommended package type for Meru University computers would be LGA for easier installation and potential future upgrades.

xii) Various display unit technologies include LCD, LED, OLED, and IPS. A recommended type for Meru University computers would be LED for its energy efficiency and image quality.

xiii) Factors to consider before upgrading processors for Meru University computers include compatibility with the motherboard, socket type, CPU speed and number of cores, and budget constraints.

xiv) Various types of disk and disk drives include HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), and NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express). A recommended type for Meru University computers would be SSD for faster boot times and data access.

xv) The procedure for installing the Windows operating system on Meru University computers includes:
- Insert the Windows installation disc or USB drive
- Boot the computer from the installation media
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows
- Enter the product key and customize settings as needed
- Complete the installation and set up user accounts.