🧠 Viewing the BIOS and Changing the Boot Order

📘 Introduction

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is firmware stored on the motherboard that initializes hardware during the booting process. One of its important functions is to allow users to configure system settings, including the boot order.

🔍 What is BIOS?

• BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System.
• It is the first software that runs when a computer is powered on.
• It performs hardware initialization and provides runtime services for the operating system.

📎 BIOS vs UEFI

• BIOS: Traditional firmware interface, limited to older systems.
• UEFI: Modern replacement for BIOS with enhanced features and graphical interface.

🧪 How to Enter BIOS Setup

To view or change BIOS settings, follow these steps:

1. Shut down or restart the computer.
2. During startup, press the required key (usually Del, F2, Esc, or F10) as soon as the screen lights up.
3. This will open the BIOS/UEFI setup screen.

Note: The specific key depends on the computer manufacturer. Refer to the on-screen prompt or user manual.

📂 Navigating BIOS Interface

• Use arrow keys to move through options.
• Enter to select a menu or setting.
• Esc to go back or exit a menu.
• F10 to save and exit (check the legend at the bottom of BIOS screen).

⚙️ Changing the Boot Order

The boot order decides which device the computer tries to load the operating system from.

Steps to Change Boot Order:

1. Enter the BIOS setup utility.
2. Navigate to the Boot or Boot Order tab.
3. Use the arrow keys to select a boot device (e.g., USB, CD/DVD, HDD).
4. Use keys like +/- or F5/F6 to change the order.
5. Set your preferred device (like USB) as the first boot device.
6. Press F10 to save changes and restart.

🔄 Example:

If you want to install a new OS from a pen drive, set USB Drive as the first boot device.

🔐 Precautions While Using BIOS

• Do not change unknown settings without guidance.
• Changing wrong settings can affect system startup.
• Always note down default values before changing.

🧪 Practical Activity

• Restart your system and enter BIOS setup.
• Identify BIOS version and manufacturer.
• View and note down the current boot order.
• Change the boot order to prioritize USB or DVD drive.
• Save changes and reboot the system.

📌 Summary

• BIOS allows hardware configuration at a basic level before OS loads.
• You can enter BIOS using specific keys during startup (like Del, F2, etc.).
• Changing boot order is important for installing operating systems or troubleshooting.
• Always handle BIOS settings with care to avoid system issues.

🛠️ Identify and Rectify Common Hardware and Software Issues

📘 Introduction

In any computer system, problems can arise due to hardware malfunctions or software errors. Identifying and troubleshooting these common issues is an essential skill for ITI students and computer technicians.

🔧 Common Hardware Issues

Hardware issues are related to the physical components of the computer. Here are some common problems and solutions:

💡 1. Computer Won’t Turn On

• 🔌 Check power cable and socket connection.
• 💡 Ensure the power supply switch is ON.
• 🧪 Test with another power cord or SMPS.

🖥️ 2. No Display on Monitor

• Check if the monitor is powered ON.
• Ensure VGA/HDMI cable is properly connected.
• Try another monitor or display cable.

🔊 3. No Sound

• Ensure speakers or headphones are properly plugged in.
• Check if the sound is muted in system settings.
• Reinstall or update sound drivers.

🌀 4. Overheating

• Check cooling fans and heat sinks.
• Clean dust from inside the cabinet.
• Ensure proper ventilation.

🔌 5. USB Device Not Detected

• Try a different USB port.
• Check Device Manager for driver issues.
• Update or reinstall USB drivers.

💾 Common Software Issues

Software problems can arise due to system misconfigurations, corrupted files, or malware.

🐢 1. Slow System Performance

• Close unnecessary background programs.
• Perform disk cleanup and defragmentation.
• Scan for malware or viruses.

🔄 2. Operating System Not Booting

• Use Windows recovery tools.
• Boot into Safe Mode and troubleshoot.
• Check for corrupted system files using sfc /scannow.

🧩 3. Software Not Installing or Crashing

• Ensure system meets software requirements.
• Run installer as Administrator.
• Reinstall or update the application.

🔒 4. Frequent System Crashes or Blue Screen (BSOD)

• Check for recently installed drivers or hardware.
• Run memory and disk diagnostics.
• Update all device drivers.

📡 5. Internet Not Working

• Check physical LAN or Wi-Fi connection.
• Restart router and computer.
• Run Windows Network Troubleshooter.

🧪 Practical Activity

• Simulate a no-display situation and troubleshoot step-by-step.
• Clean dust from a desktop and ensure fan is working.
• Install antivirus and run a system scan.
• Open Task Manager to monitor system performance.

📌 Summary

• Computer problems can be due to either hardware or software issues.
• Systematic troubleshooting helps identify and fix problems efficiently.
• Always start by checking connections and drivers.
• Basic tools like Task Manager, Device Manager, and Disk Cleanup are very useful.

💻 Formatting the Hard Disk and Loading O.S and Necessary Application Software

📘 Introduction

Formatting the hard disk and installing the operating system (OS) is an essential task when setting up a new computer or troubleshooting an existing one. After formatting, the operating system and necessary application software need to be loaded to make the computer functional.

🔧 Formatting the Hard Disk

Formatting is the process of preparing the hard disk for use by erasing all the data and creating a file system. This is usually done when installing or reinstalling an operating system.

📝 Steps to Format a Hard Disk:

• 💻 Insert the bootable USB drive or DVD with the OS installation files.
• 🔄 Restart the computer and boot from the USB or DVD.
• ⚙️ Select your language and preferences, and click Next.
• 🔧 Click on Install Now.
• 💾 On the disk selection screen, select the partition where you want to install the OS.
• 🗑️ Click Format to erase all data and prepare the partition for installation.
• ⚙️ Proceed with the installation and follow the on-screen instructions.

🧠 Important Tips:

• Formatting will erase all the data on the hard disk, so make sure to back up your data before proceeding.
• Ensure that you have the correct OS installation media and license key, if required.

💻 Loading the Operating System

Once the hard disk is formatted, the next step is to load the operating system (OS). The OS can be loaded from a bootable USB drive, DVD, or over a network (for network installations).

📝 Steps to Install the Operating System:

• 🔄 Boot the computer from the installation media (USB or DVD).
• ⚙️ Select your language preferences and click Next.
• 💾 Click Install Now to begin the installation process.
• 🧳 Enter the product key (if required) and choose the edition of the OS.
• 💻 Select the partition where you want to install the OS and click Next.
• ⚙️ The installation will begin, and the computer will restart several times during the process.
• 🧑‍💻 Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the OS setup (user account, network settings, etc.).

🧠 Key Considerations:

• Ensure that your hardware is compatible with the OS version you are installing.
• Have your product key ready for activation (if applicable).

🔧 Installing Necessary Application Software

After the operating system is installed, you can proceed to install necessary applications like web browsers, office suites, and other essential tools.

📝 Steps to Install Application Software:

• 💾 Download the installation files for the required applications from official websites.
• ⚙️ Run the installer files for each application one by one.
• 🖱️ Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation of each application.
• 🔧 Configure settings for each application as per your preferences (e.g., web browser settings, email account setup, etc.).
• 💡 Always use legitimate software and ensure that applications are updated to the latest versions.

🧠 Key Applications to Install:

• 🔒 Antivirus software for protection against malware and viruses.
• 🌐 Web browsers (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge).
• 💼 Office applications (e.g., Microsoft Office, LibreOffice).
• 🗣️ Communication tools (e.g., Zoom, Skype, Microsoft Teams).
• 💾 File compression tools (e.g., WinRAR, 7-Zip).

🧪 Practical Activity

• Perform a hands-on activity where students format a test machine and install Windows OS.
• Guide students to install necessary applications like web browsers and antivirus software.
• Have students set up a local network and connect to the internet after installation.

📌 Summary

• Formatting a hard disk prepares it for use by erasing all data and setting up the file system.
• Installing the OS involves booting from installation media, selecting the installation partition, and following setup prompts.
• After installing the OS, it’s important to install essential applications like web browsers, office suites, and antivirus software.
• Always ensure your hardware is compatible with the OS, and follow best practices for software installation.

💿 Installation of DVD, Using Different Types of Hard Disks

📘 Introduction

Installing a DVD drive and configuring various types of hard disks are fundamental tasks for assembling or upgrading a computer. In this practical, we will explore how to install a DVD drive and understand the different types of hard disks, including their installation and configuration.

🔧 Installing a DVD Drive

A DVD drive allows the computer to read and write DVDs. This can be important for software installations, watching movies, or accessing data from DVDs.

📝 Steps to Install a DVD Drive:

• 💻 Turn off the computer and unplug it from the power source.
• 🔓 Open the computer case by removing the screws or latch that holds it in place.
• 🖥️ Locate an empty 5.25-inch drive bay (the slot where the DVD drive will go).
• 🔌 Connect the power cable from the power supply to the DVD drive's power input.
• 🔗 Connect the data cable (SATA or IDE) from the motherboard to the DVD drive.
• 📏 Slide the DVD drive into the drive bay and secure it with screws or brackets.
• 🔌 Ensure all cables are securely connected.
• 🔄 Close the computer case and plug the computer back into the power source.
• 💻 Turn on the computer and check if the operating system detects the DVD drive.

🧠 Key Tips:

• Ensure your motherboard has a free SATA or IDE port for the DVD drive.
• If using an IDE connection, make sure to configure the master/slave jumper settings correctly.
• Check for proper power supply connection to the DVD drive before turning on the computer.

💾 Types of Hard Disks

Hard disks are primary storage devices used in computers to store data. There are various types of hard disks available today, each with different performance, capacity, and technology features.

1. 👉 HDD (Hard Disk Drive)

HDD is the traditional mechanical hard disk with spinning disks and read/write heads. It is cost-effective for storing large amounts of data, but it is slower compared to modern SSDs.

2. 👉 SSD (Solid State Drive)

SSD is a newer technology that uses flash memory for data storage, offering faster data transfer speeds and better durability compared to HDDs. It is often used as the primary drive in modern computers.

3. 👉 SSHD (Solid State Hybrid Drive)

SSHD is a combination of HDD and SSD, offering both large storage capacity and faster access speeds for frequently accessed data.

4. 👉 External Hard Drives

External hard drives are portable storage devices connected via USB, eSATA, or Thunderbolt. They are used for backup, data transfer, and additional storage.

📝 Key Differences Between HDD, SSD, and SSHD:

• Speed: SSDs are the fastest, followed by SSHDs and then HDDs.
• Cost: HDDs are the most affordable, SSDs are more expensive per GB, and SSHDs offer a balance of price and performance.
• Durability: SSDs are more durable because they have no moving parts, while HDDs are more susceptible to physical damage due to their mechanical parts.
• Capacity: HDDs offer larger storage capacities at lower prices, while SSDs are available in smaller sizes but provide faster performance.

🔧 Installing Different Types of Hard Disks

The process of installing different types of hard disks is similar, but some hard disks may require specific connectors or additional settings.

📝 Steps to Install HDD or SSD:

• 💻 Turn off the computer and unplug it from the power source.
• 🔓 Open the computer case and locate an available hard disk bay or mount slot.
• 🔌 For an HDD or SSD, connect the SATA power cable from the power supply to the hard disk.
• 🔗 Connect the SATA data cable from the motherboard to the hard disk.
• 📏 Mount the hard disk into the bay and secure it with screws or brackets.
• 🔌 Double-check all connections before closing the computer case.
• 🔄 Plug the computer back into the power source and turn it on.
• ⚙️ If the drive is not detected automatically, check the BIOS settings or install the necessary drivers.

🧠 Additional Steps for SSHD Installation:

• 💻 The process of installing an SSHD is the same as for HDDs and SSDs.
• 🔧 Some SSHDs may have additional configuration settings for optimizing the combination of SSD cache and HDD storage.
• 🧑‍💻 Ensure your system supports hybrid drives (most modern systems do).

📋 Conclusion

• Installing a DVD drive involves connecting the power and data cables, mounting it in the case, and ensuring the system recognizes it.
• Hard disks come in different types: HDD, SSD, SSHD, and external hard drives, each offering different performance and storage capabilities.
• Installation of hard disks follows similar steps, but ensure proper connections for power and data, and check the system for recognition.
• Consider the type of storage device that best suits your needs, whether for performance, storage capacity, or cost efficiency.

📡 Bluetooth Configuration & 💿 DVD Write Techniques

📘 Introduction

Bluetooth configuration and DVD writing are essential tasks for modern computing. Bluetooth allows wireless communication between devices, while DVD writing is crucial for creating and burning media. In this practical, we will cover the steps to configure Bluetooth and perform DVD write techniques effectively.

🔧 Bluetooth Configuration

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that allows devices like laptops, smartphones, printers, and more to communicate over short distances without cables. Configuring Bluetooth correctly ensures devices can connect and transfer data smoothly.

📝 Steps to Configure Bluetooth on a Computer:

• 💻 Ensure that your computer has a Bluetooth adapter. Most modern laptops have Bluetooth built in. For desktops, you might need to purchase and install a Bluetooth USB dongle.
• ⚙️ Turn on the Bluetooth feature in your computer's operating system. In Windows, go to "Settings" → "Devices" → "Bluetooth & other devices" and toggle the Bluetooth switch to "On".
• 📱 Enable Bluetooth on the device you want to connect (such as a smartphone, wireless headset, or Bluetooth speaker).
• 💡 Make sure the device is discoverable (this option is usually available in the Bluetooth settings on the device).
• 🔄 In the "Bluetooth & other devices" section of Windows, click "Add Bluetooth or other device". A list of nearby discoverable devices will appear.
• 📶 Select the device you want to connect to and click "Pair".
• 🔐 If required, enter a PIN or confirm the pairing on both devices.
• ✅ Once paired, the device will appear in the list of connected Bluetooth devices on your computer. You can now use the Bluetooth connection for file transfer, audio, or other tasks.

🧠 Key Tips for Bluetooth Troubleshooting:

• 🔌 Ensure Bluetooth drivers are up to date. Check the manufacturer's website for the latest drivers.
• ⚡ Ensure the devices you want to pair are within range (typically within 10 meters).
• 🖥️ Restart your computer and the Bluetooth device if pairing fails.
• 🔄 Turn off Bluetooth on other devices that are actively using Bluetooth to avoid interference.

💿 DVD Write Techniques

DVD writing allows you to burn data, movies, music, or other media onto a writable DVD. This process is important for archiving data, creating backups, or distributing media. There are several types of DVDs, including DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW, each with different writing characteristics.

📝 Steps to Write Data to a DVD:

• 💻 Insert a blank writable DVD (DVD-R, DVD+R, etc.) into your computer’s DVD writer.
• ⚙️ Open your DVD burning software (such as Windows Media Player, Nero, or other third-party software). You can also use built-in tools in Windows.
• 🔄 Select the type of data you want to burn (files, folders, images, etc.) and add them to the software's interface.
• 💡 Choose the “Write” or “Burn” option in the software. You might be asked to specify the burning speed (typically, slower speeds produce better results).
• 🚀 Start the burning process by clicking the "Burn" or "Start" button. The software will transfer the data to the DVD.
• ✅ Once the burning process is complete, the software will notify you. You can now safely eject the DVD.

🧠 Key Tips for DVD Writing:

• 💾 Use high-quality DVD media to ensure the best writing and long-term storage.
• 🕰️ Avoid using the computer for other heavy tasks during the burning process to ensure a smooth transfer of data.
• 📉 Always verify the written DVD after the burning process to check for errors or incomplete files.
• 🔄 For rewritable DVDs (DVD-RW, DVD+RW), ensure that the disk is not write-protected before starting the writing process.

💡 Different DVD Writing Formats:

• DVD-R: A one-time writeable format that can only be written once. Data cannot be modified or erased after writing.
• DVD+R: Similar to DVD-R but with slight differences in data handling and compatibility with certain devices.
• DVD-RW: Rewritable format that allows you to erase and rewrite data multiple times.
• DVD+RW: A rewritable format with slightly better error correction and more compatibility with newer devices compared to DVD-RW.

🧑‍💻 Using ISO Files for DVD Burning:

ISO files are disk image files that contain the exact contents of a physical DVD or CD. Burning an ISO file to a DVD creates a replica of the original disk.

• 🖥️ In your DVD burning software, select the option to "Burn ISO image" rather than adding individual files.
• 💻 Choose the ISO file you want to burn and start the process as you would with other types of data.
• ⚡ Once the burning process is complete, you will have a bootable or copy-protected DVD, depending on the ISO file's content.

📋 Conclusion

• Bluetooth configuration is an easy process involving enabling the Bluetooth feature, pairing devices, and troubleshooting common issues.
• DVD writing allows for the creation of data discs for storage, backups, or media distribution, with different formats offering varying levels of rewritability.
• Using the right DVD media, writing software, and following proper procedures ensures successful DVD burning with minimal errors.