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Professor Messer A+ 201-1101 > Section 3: Hardware > Flashcards

Section 3: Hardware Flashcards

1
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Network Cables

The importance of cable

A
  • Fundamental to network communication. Incredibly important
  • Usually only one good opportunity at building your cabling infrastructure.
  • The vast majorityof wirelss communication uses cables. It has to plug somewhere.
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2
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Network Cables

Twisted pair copper cabling

A
  • Balanced pair operation: Two wires with equal and opposite signals. Transmit+, Transmit-/ Receive+, Receive-. 4 twisted wires, 8 conductors.
  • The twist is the secret!: Keeps a single wire constantly moving away from interference. The opposite signals are compared on the other end.
  • Pairs in the same cable have different twist rates.
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3
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Network Cables

Copper cable categories

A
  • 1000BASE-T: Category 5. 100 meters
  • 1000BASE-T: Category 5e (enhanced). 100 meters
  • 10GBASE-T: Category 6. Unshielded: 55 meters. Shielded: 100 meters
  • 10GBASE-T: Category 6A (augmented). 100 meters
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4
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Network Cables

Coaxial cables

A
  • Two or more forms share a common axis
  • RG-6 coaxial cable used in television/digital cable. High-speed internet over cable.
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5
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Network Cables

Plenum

A
  • Plenum space: Building air circulation. Heating and air conditioning system.
  • Concerns in the case of fire: Smoke and toxic fumes
  • Worst-case planning: Important concerns for any structure.
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6
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Network Cables

Plenum-rated cable

A
  • Traditional cable jacket: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
  • Fire-rated cable jacket: Fluorinated ethylene polymer (FEP) or low-smoke polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
  • Plenum-rated cable may not be as flexible: May not have the same bend radius.
  • Worst case planning: Important concerns for any structure.
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7
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Network Cables

Unshielded and shielded cable

A
  • UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair): No additonal shielding. Most common twisted pain cabling. Ethernet cable.
  • STP (Shielded Twisted Pair): Additional shielding protects against interference. Shield each pair and/or the overall cable. Requires the cable to be grounded.
  • Abbreviations: U (unshielded), S(Braided shielding), F (Foil shielding)
  • (Overall cable) / (individual pairs) IP: Braided shielding around the entire cable and foil around the pairs is S/FTP. Foil around the cable and no shielding around the pairs is F/UTP.
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8
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Network Cables

Direct burial STP

A
  • Overhead cable isn’t always a good option: Put the cable in the ground.
  • Provides protection from the elements: Designed to be waterproof. Often filled with gel to repel water. Conduit may not be needed.
  • Shielded twisted pair: Provides grounding. Adds strength. Protect against signal interference.
  • Parys of Direct burial STP: copper conductor, outer jacket, optional waterproof Gel, Drain wire, pair shield, overall foil shield.
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9
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Optical Fiber

Fiber Communication

A
  • Transmission by light: The visibel spectrum
  • No RF signal: Very difficult to monitor or tap
  • Signal slow to degrade: Transmission over long distances
  • Immune to radio interference: There’s no radiofrequency (RF)
  • PartsL Ferrule and fiber core
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10
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Optical Fiber

Multimode fiber

A
  • Short-range communication: Up to 2 km.
  • Relatively inexpensive ligt source: LED
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11
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Optical Fiber

Single-mode fiber

A
  • Long-range communications: Up to 100 km
  • Expensive light source: Commonly uses lasers
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12
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - 568A and 568B colors

Structured cabling standards

A
  • Internation ISO/IEC 11801 cabling standards: Defines classes of networking standards
  • Telecommunication Industry Association (TIA): Standard, market analysi, trade shows, government affairs,etc. ANSI/TIA-568 : Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard. http://www.tiaonline.org
  • Commonly referenced for pin and pair assignments of eight-conductor 100-ohm balanced twisted pain cabling: T568A and T568B
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13
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - 568A and 568B colors

T568A and T568B termination

A
  • Pin assignments from T568-B standard: Eight conductor 100-ohm balanced twisted-pair cabling
  • T568A and T568B are different pin assignments for 8P8C connectors: Assigns the T568A pin-out to horizontal cabling.
  • Many organizations traditionally use 568B: Difficult to change in the mid-stream
  • You can’t terminate one side of the cable with 568A and the other with 568B: This has never been the definition of a Gigabit Ethernet crossover cable.
  • T568B uses orange/white in the beginning.
  • T568A uses green/white in the beginning.
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14
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Peripheral Cables

USB (Universal Serial Bus)

A
  • Simplify connections: Printers, storage devices, keyboard, mouse
  • USB 1.1 : Low speed: 1.5 megabits per second, 3 meters. Full speed: 12 megabits per second, 5 meters
  • USB 2.0: 489 megabits per second, 5 meters
  • USB 3.0: Superspeed. 5 gigabits per second, 3 meters. Standard does not specify a cable length.
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15
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Peripheral Cables

USB 1.1/2.0 Connectors

A
  • Standard A plug
  • Standard B plug
  • Mini B plug
  • Micro B plug
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16
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Peripheral Cables

USB 3.0 connectors

A
  • USB 3.0 standard B plug
  • USB 3.0 standard A plug
  • USB 3.0 micro B plug
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17
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Peripheral Cables

USB-C

A
  • USB has a lot of different connectors: And they have changed over time
  • Can be annoying to connect USB-A: Third time’s the charm
  • USB-C replaces all these: One connector to rule them all
  • USB-C describes the physical connector. It doesn’t describe the signal.
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18
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Peripheral Cables

USB versions and naming

A
  • There’s a lot to keep track of: The names keep changing
  • The standard doesn’t change: Just the names.
  • USB 3.0 is also known as superspeed with maximum speed of 5Gbit/sec
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19
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Peripheral Cables

USB 3.1

A
  • Released July 2013: Doubled the throughput over USB 3.0
  • USB 3.0 is USB 3.1 Gen 1: Superspeed USB, 5 Gbit/sec
  • USB 3.1 is USB 3.1 Gen 2: Superspeed+. twice the rate of USB 3.0/USB Gen1, 10 Gbit/sec
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20
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Peripheral Cables

USB 3.2

A
  • USB 3.2: Released September 2017. Bandwidth can double with USB-C cables. Uses an extra “lane” of communication associated with the flip-flop wires in USB-C
  • USB 3.0 = 3.1 Gen 1 = USB 3.2 Gen 1: Superspeed USB 5 Gbps (single lane)
  • USB 3.1 = 3.1 Gen 2 = USB 3.2 Gen 2: Superspeed+, USB 10 (single lane)
  • USB 3.2 Gen 1x2: 10 Gbps using two “Gen 1” lanes
  • USB 3.2 Gen 2x2: Superspeed USB 20 Gbps using two “Gen 2” lanes.
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21
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Peripheral Cables

Thunderbolt

A
  • High-speed serial connector: Data and power on the same side. Based on mini displayfort (MDP) standard
  • Thunderbolt v1: Two channels. 10 Gbits/s per channel. 20 Gbit/s total throughput. Mini DisplayPort connector
  • Thunderbolt v2: 20 Gbit/s aggregated channels. Mini DisplayPort connector
  • Thunderbolt v3: 40 Gbit/s aggregated throughput. USB-C connector
  • Maximum 3 meters (copper): 60 meters (optical). Daisy-chain up to 6 devices.
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22
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Peripheral Cables

Serial console cables

A
  • D-subminiature or D-sub: The letter refers to the connector size
  • Commonly used for RS-32: Recommended standard 232. An industry standard since 1969
  • Serial communications standard: Built for modern communication. Used for modems, printers, mice, networking.
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23
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Video Cables

VGA (Video Graphics Array)

A
  • DB-15 connector: More accurately called DE-15
  • Blue color: PC system Design Guide
  • Video only: No audio signal
  • Analog signal: No digital. Images degrades after 5 to 10 meters.
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24
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Video Cables

HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface)

A
  • Video and audio stream: All digital. No analog. 20 meter distance before losig too much signal
  • 19-pin (Type A) connector: Proprietary connector
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25
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Video Cables

Displayport

A
  • Digital information sent in packetized form: Like Ethernet and PCI Express. Carries both audio and video
  • Compatible with HDMI and DVI: Passive adapter.
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26
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Video Cables

DVI (Digital Visual Interface)

A
  • Single and dual link video: Single link; 3.7 Gbps (HDTV at 60 fps). Dual link; 7.4 Gbps (HDTV at 85 fps); No audio support
  • DVI-A: Analog signals
  • DVI-D: Digital signals
  • DVI-I: Integrated. Digital and analog in the same connector.
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27
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - SATA Device Cables

SATA (Serial AT attachment)

A
  • SATA Revision 1.0: SATA 1.5 Gbit/s, 1 meter
  • SATA Revision 2.0: SATA 3.0 Gbit/s, 1 meter
  • SATA Revision 3.0: SATA 6.0 Gbit/s, 1 meter
  • SATA Revision 3.2: SATA 16 Gbit/s, 1 meter
  • eSATA (external SATA): Matches the SATA version; 2 meters.
  • Power is 15 pins
  • Data is 7 pins
  • One power cable and data cable per device. one-to-one
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28
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - SATACables

eSATA cable

A
  • External device connections: Uses the SATA standard
  • Similar in size to SATA: Connectors are physically different.
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29
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - SCSI Device Cables

The SCSI standard

A
  • Small Computer Systems Interface: Not really “small” any longer
  • Originally designed to string many peripherals together onto a single cable/controller. Up to 16 devices in a SCSI “chain”
  • Many different formats: Fast SCSI, Ultra SCSI, Ultra Wide SCSI, Ultra2 SCSI, Ultra 3 SCSI, Ultra-320 SCSI, Ultra-640 SCSI, ISCSI (SCSI over IP)
  • Parallel and serial options
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30
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - SCSI Device Cables

SCSI advantages

A
  • Not just for hard drives: Scanners, tape drivers, CD-ROM drives
  • Many devices on a single bus: 8 on narrow bus, 16 on wide bus
  • Very intelligent interface functionality: Much of the difficult configuration word is done between the SCSI devices.
  • Industry longevity: Well supported in the enterprise. A standard drive for virtual systems.
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31
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - SCSI Device Cables

SCSI ID and logical unit (LUN)

A
  • Every SCSI device on a single bus is assigned a separate ID number: SCSI ID 0 (SCSI controller), ID 2 (hard drive), ID (CD-ROM)
  • Logical units (LUNs) are defined within each SCSI ID: Separate drives in a storage array or virtual machine.
  • The signal at the “end” of a physical SCSI bus is terminated: Can be internal to the device or a separate termination device
  • Serial attached SCSI (SAS) devices have no jumpers, terminators, or settings.
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32
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - SCSI Device Cables

Daisy Chaining

A

Used with SCSI

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33
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - SCSI Device Cables

Serial attached SCSI

A
  • Move from parallel to serial: Increased throughput. Similar to the move from PATA to SATA
  • Point-to-point connection: No more daisy chains
  • No termaination required: The bus has two devices on it
  • The control and management of SCSI: The speed of a serial connection.
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34
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - SCSI Device Cables

2.5” SAS drive

A

Examples is high-density internal SAS connector

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35
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - PATA Device Cables

The PATA Standard

A
  • Parallel AT Attachment, Parallel ATA, ATA: Remember the PC/AT?
  • An evolutionary process: Circa 1999
  • Originally called Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE): A Western Digital invention. 2nd generation called EIDE (Enhance IDE)
  • The evolution: Provide faster speeds (range 16MB/s - 133 MB/s). Additional devices (CD-ROM drives, etc.)
  • Now called Parallel ATA (PATA)
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36
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - PATA Device Cables

PATA cabling

A
  • Motherboard connection: 40 wire cable connected to Device 0 and then Device 1.
  • Motheboard connection: 80 wire cable connected to Device 1 and then Device 0.
  • 80-wire-cable has twice the number of wires of that of 40-wire cable
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37
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - PATA Device Cables

PATA Drive

A
  • 40-pin
  • Missing pin
  • Notch
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38
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - PATA Device Cables

PATA and SATA cables

A
  • PATA cable is a legacy technology larger than SAT cables (more current technology)
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39
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Adapters and converters

Adapter and converters

A
  • The best laid plans…: Need an adapter
  • Convert between different connectors: Electrically compatible
  • Convert from one format to another: You need Ethernet but you only have USB
  • A good temporary fix: Or a good permanent one
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40
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Adapters and converters

DVI to HDMI

A
  • DVI-D and HDMI are electrically compatible: HDMI is backward-compatible with DVI-D. No signal conversion required. No loss of video quality
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41
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Adapters and converters

DVI to VGA

A
  • DVI-A includes analog signals: Backward compatible with VGA. Only 640 x 480 is offically supported
  • May only need an adapter: Analog to analog
  • VGA to DVI digital will need a converter: Check your interface specifications.
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42
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Adapters and converters

USB to Ethernet

A
  • Some laptops don’t have a wired Ethernet interface: Convert USB to Ethernet
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43
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Adapters and converters

USB-C to USB-A

A
  • Merge the new with the old: Use older peripherals
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44
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Adapters and converters

USB hub

A
  • Connect many devices: High speed USB connectivity
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45
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Copper Connectors

RJ11 connector

A
  • 6 position, 2 conductor (6P2C): Some cables will wire additional conductors
  • Telephone or DSL connection
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46
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Copper Connectors

RJ45 connector

A
  • Registered Jack type 45
  • 8 position, 8 conductor (8P8C): Modular connector. Ethernet.
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47
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Copper Connectors

F-connector

A
  • Cable television: Cable modem. DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification)
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48
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Copper Connectors

Punchdown block

A
  • Wire-to-wire patch panel: No intermediate interface required.
  • Wires are “punched” into the block: Connecting block is on top.
  • Additional wires punched into connecting block: Patch the top to the bottom.
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49
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Copper Connectors

USB 1.1/2.0 connectors

A
  • Standard A plug
  • Standard B plug (for printers)
  • Mini B plug (mobile device)
  • Micro B plug (mobile device)
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50
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Copper Connectors

USB 3.0 connectors

A
  • USB 3.0 standard B plug
  • USB 3.0 standard A plug
  • USB 3.0 Micro-B plug
  • USB 3.0 offers faster speeds.
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51
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Copper Connectors

USB-C

A
  • 24-pin double-sided USB connector: Used for both hosts and devices
  • Used for USB, Thunderbolt: Interface is the same, signal vary.
  • elliptical-shaped plug
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52
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Copper Connectors

Molex connector

A
  • 4-pin peripheral power connector: Molex Connector Company. AMP MATE-N-LOK, Provides +12V and +5V
  • Power for many devices in the computer case: Storage devices, optical drives, Fans, other peripherals
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53
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Copper Connectors

Lightning

A
  • Apple proprietary: 8-pin digital signals. iPhone, iPad, iPod devices
  • Some advantages over Micro-USB: Higher power output for phones and tablets. Can be inserted either way.
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54
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Copper Connectors

DB-9

A
  • D-subminiature or D-sub: The letter refers to the connector size
  • Commonly used for RS-232: Recommended Standard 232. An industry standard since 1969.
  • Serial communications standard: Built for modem communication. Usedf for modems, printer, mice, networking.
  • Now used as a configuration port: Management or Console port
  • 9 holes
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55
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Fiber Connectors

Local Connector (LC)

A
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56
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Fiber Connectors

ST - Straight Tip

A
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57
Q

3.1 - Cables and Adapters - Fiber Connectors

SC - Subscriber Connector

A
  • Also called square connector
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58
Q

3.2 Memory : An Overview of Memory

What is memory?

A
  • Random Access Memory (RAM) is the most common: But, it’s not the only kind of memory
  • RAM is not referring to hard drive or SSD storage: Don’t mix the two terms. Data is stored permanently on the drive.
  • Data and programs can only be used when moved to RAM.
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59
Q

3.2 Memory : An Overview of Memory

RAM (Rando Access Memory) slots

A
  • Memory types have changed through the years: Driven by standardization and technology
  • One of the most importanct components of your computer: Speed, speed, speed.
  • Every motherboard is different: Check your documentation.
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60
Q

3.2 Memory : An Overview of Memory

DIMM

A
  • DIMM: Dual inline memory module. Electrical contacts are different on each side.
  • 64 bit data width.
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61
Q

3.2 Memory : An Overview of Memory

SO-DIMM

A
  • Small Outline Dual in-line Memory Module: About half the width as a DIMM
  • Used in laptops and mobile devices
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62
Q

3.2 Memory : An Overview of Memory

Dynamic Random Access Memory

A
  • The memory on the DIMM
  • Dynamic: Needs constant refreshing. Without refreshing, the data in memory disappears
  • Random access: Any storage location can be accessed directly. Unlike magnetic tape.
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63
Q

3.2 Memory : An Overview of Memory

SDRAM

A
  • Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM)
  • SDRAM is synchronous with the common system clock: Queue up one process while waiting for another. Classic DRAM didn’t wait for a clock signal.
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64
Q

3.2 Memory : An Overview of Memory

It won’t fit

A

DDR, DDR 2, DDR 3, DDR 4 differ in the positon of slots.
Similarly, SO-DIMM DDR, SO-DIMM DDR 2, and SO-DIMM DDR3 differs in the position of slots.

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65
Q

3.2 Memory : An Overview of Memory

SDR vs DDR

A
  • Single Data Rate can transfer once in a single cycle
  • Double Data Rate can transfer double in a single cycle.
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66
Q

3.2 Memory : An Overview of Memory

Double Data Rate 3 (DDR3) SDRAM

A
  • Twice the data rate of DDR2: Larger chip capacities - Maximum 16 GB per DIMM
  • No backwards compatibility: Speed brings sacrifice
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67
Q

3.2 Memory : An Overview of Memory

Double Data Rate (DDR4) SDRAM

A
  • Speed increases over DDR3: Faster frequencies. Maximum 64 GB per DIMM
  • Again, no backwards compatibility.
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68
Q

3.2 Memory : An Overview of Memory

Double Data Rate 5 (DDR5) DRAM

A
  • Faster data transfers between the memory module and motherboard: Maximum of 64 GB per DIMM
  • The key has moved: No backwards compatibility
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69
Q

3.2 Memory : Memory Technologies

Virtual memory

A
  • Different names: Virtual RAM, swap file, etc.
  • Swap currently unused application data to storage: Free up space for other applications
  • Managed automatically by the operating system. Some configuration setting available.
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70
Q

3.2 Memory : Memory Technologies

Multi-channel memory

A
  • Dual-channel, triple-channel, or quad-channel
  • Memory combinations should match: Exact mataches are best.
  • Memory module slots are often colored different.
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71
Q

3.2 Memory : Memory Technologies

Memory that checks itself

A
  • Used on critical computer systems: VM servers, database servers, any server
  • Parity memory: Adds an additional parity bit. Won’t always detect an error. Can’t correct an error.
  • Error Correcting Code (ECC): Detects errors and corrects on the fly. Not all systems use ECC. It looks the same as non-ECC memory
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72
Q

3.2 Memory : Memory Technologies

Parity

A
  • Even parity: The parity bit makes an even number
  • Valid or error? Even parity byte
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73
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices

Hard disk drives (HDD)

A
  • Non-volatile magnetic storage: Rapidly rotating platters
  • Random-access: Retrieve data from any part of the drive at any time.
  • Moving parts: Spinning platters, moving actuator arm. Mechanical components limit the access speed. Mechanical components can also break.
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74
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices

Inside of a hard drisk drive

A
  • Platter
  • Spindle
  • Actuator
  • Arm
  • Head
  • Faster you spin the drive, the faster you’ll access data
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75
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices

Drive size comparison

A
  • 3.5 inch - desktop
  • 2.5 inch - laptop
  • M.2 is smallest and found on most new devices
76
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices

Solid state drives (SSD)

A
  • Non-volatile memory: No moving parts
  • Very fast performance: No spinning drive delays
77
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices

2.5’’ SATA interface

A

SSD has SATA interface

78
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices

mSATA (Mini-SATA)

A
  • Shrink the SATA drive into smaller devices: Same data, different form factor. Great for laptops and mobile devices
  • Smaller than 2.5” SATA drives: No spinning drive. Allows for different form factors.
  • Was used briefly: Quickly replaced by m.2 standard
79
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices

AHCI vs NVMe

A
  • SATA was designed for hard drives: Uses AHCI (Advanced Host Controller Interface) to move drive data to RAM. SATA revision 3 througput up to 600 MB/s. SSDs need a faster communication method.
  • NVMe (Non-volatile Memory Express): Designed for SSD speeds. Lower latenecy, supports hight throughput. Take advantage of NVMe with an m.2 interface.
80
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices

M.2 Interface

A
  • Smaller form factor: No SATA data or power cables
  • Can use a PCI Express bus connection: 4 GB/second throughput or faster when using NVMe PCIe x4
  • Different connector types: Need to be compatible with the slot key/spacer. B key, M key or B and M key. Some M.2 drives support both.
81
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices

B-key and M-key

A
  • M.2 doesn’t gurantee NVMe: Your M.2 interface may be using AHCI. Check your documentation
  • Your motherboard may only support one type of M.2 key. Check the documentation again.
82
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices

Flash drives

A
  • Flash memory: EEPROM (Electrically erasable programmable read-only memory). Non-volatile memory. No power required to retain data.
  • Limited number of writes: Can still read data
  • Not designed for archival storage: Easy to lose or damage. Always have a backup
83
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices

Flash memory

A
  • USB Flash Drive
  • Secure Digital (SD)
  • miniSD
  • microSD
  • CompactFlash (CF)
  • xD-Picture card
84
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices

Optical drives

A
  • Small bumps read with a laser beam: Microscopic binary storage.
  • Relatively slow: Archival media
  • Many different formats: CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, Blu-ray
  • Internal drives: For these uncommon application installations.
85
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices: RAID

Data redundancy

A
  • Hard drives store huge amounts of data: Important data
  • Hard drives are moving components: They will eventually break
  • What happen to the data when the drive fails? You can prepare for that. Use an array of drives.
  • RAID is not backup
86
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices: RAID

RAID

A
  • Redudant Array of Independent Disks: They’re also inexpensive disks.
  • Different RAID levels: Some redundant, some not.
87
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices: RAID

RAID 0 - Striping

A
  • File blocks are split between two or more physical drives
  • High performance: Data written quickly
  • No redundancy: A drive failure breaks the array. Raid 0 is zero redundancy
88
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices: RAID

RAID - Mirroring

A
  • File blocks are duplicated between two or more physical drives
  • High disk utilization: Every file is duplicated. Required disk space is doubled.
  • High redundancy: Drive failure does not affect data availability.
89
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices: RAID]

RAID 5 - Striping with parity

A
  • Files blocks are striped: Along with a parity block. Requires at least three disks.
  • Efficient use of disk space: Files aren’t duplicated, but space is still used for parity
  • High redundancy: Data is available after drive failure. Parity calculation may affect performance.
90
Q

3.3 - Storage Devices: RAID

RAID 10 (1 + 0) - A stripe of mirrors

A
  • The speed of striping, the redundancy of mirroring
  • Need at least 4 drives
91
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Form Factors

Motherboard Form factors

A
  • Physical size: Case sizing
  • Basic layout: Room for small changes
  • Power: Standard connectors
  • Airflow: Increasingly important
  • Wikipedia: There are 40 different motherboard types categorized.
92
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Form Factors

What you need to know:

A
  • CompTIA exam objectives: “3.4-Given a scenario, install and configure motherboards, central processing unit (CPUs) and add-on cards.”
  • Focus on which motherboard would be the best choice for a scenario: Memorizaing the dimensions of the motherboard probably isn’t the most importance thing. ATX or ITX
  • Which motherboard would you choose? Media center, video editing, thin client, etc.
93
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Form Factors

Motherboard form factors

A
  • Standard-ATX for desktop
  • Mini-ITX for smaller computers
94
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Form Factors

ATX form factor

A
  • Advanced Technology Extended
  • Standardized by Intel in 1995: Seen many updates over the years
  • Power: 20-pin connector. 24-pin connector. Additional 4/8-pin connector.
95
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Form Factors

ITX Form factor

A
  • A series of low-power motherboards: Developed by VIA Technologies in 2001. Small form factor.
  • Mini-ITX is screw-compatible with ATX. Fits almost any enclosure
  • Small form factor uses: Single-purpose computing, i.e., streaming media.
96
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Slots

A computer bus

A
  • Communication path: A city of technology
  • Internal PC growth: Independent pathways
  • System expansion: Additional capabilities
97
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Slots

Conventional PCI

A
  • Peripheral Component Interconnect: Nobody ever call it that. Created in 1994.
  • Many expansion options: 32-bit and 64-bit bus width. Parallel communication
  • A common expansion interface on previous computer generations: PCI Express is the newer technology
98
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Slots

PCI 64-bit expansion card

A
  • Supports 3.3 V and 5 V of power
  • Has specific key
99
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Slots

PCI Express

A
  • Also known as PCIe: Replaces the older PCI standard
  • Communicates serially: Unidirectional serial “lanes”. Slower devices don’t slow down everyone
  • One, two, four, eight, sixteen, or thirty-two full-duplex lines: x1, x2, x4, x8, x16, x32. “x” is pronounced “by” (“by 4”, “by 16”)
100
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Slots

PCI Express Serial Communication

A
  • PCI Express support two devices A and B that communicates serially.
101
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Slots

PCI adaptor

A

Has a lock that allows you lock the adapter into place

102
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Connectors

24-pin motherboard power

A
  • Main motherboard power: Provides +3.3V, +/-5V and +/- 12 V
  • 20-pin connector was originally ATX standard: 24-pin was added for PCI Express power
  • You can connect a 24-pin connector to a 20-pin motherboard: Some cables are 20-pin + 4-pin
103
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Connectors

4-pin ATX

A
  • 4-pin ATX +12 V power: ATX12V Advanced Technology Extended motherboards.
  • Additional 12 volt power for older motherboards: Used primarily for CPU
  • May be labeled ATX12V, P4, or CPU: And keyed for the appropriate connector
104
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Connectors

Storage drive interfaces - SATA

A
  • SATA connections for hard drives and SSDs
105
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Connectors

eSATA expansion

A
  • Allows connection of an external device with the same througput as the internal SATA drive
106
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Connectors

Headers

A
  • A pin header: A simple electrical interface. The connector is attached to the header.
  • Many different uses: Power, peripheral connections, lights, buttons.
107
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Connectors

Front panel connectors

A
  • Hard drive connection
  • LED connection
108
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Connectors

M.2 connector

A
  • M.2 connector is fastened with a screw to connect to motherboard itself.
109
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Compatibility

Intel and AMD

A
  • Two solid CPU manufacturers: The differences are subtle
  • Cost: AMD tends to be a bit less expensive
  • Different sockets: The motherboard is designed for a particular CPU
  • Choosing a side: Historically, AMD is value and Intel is performance. This is a dynamic technology segment.
110
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Compatibility

Server motherboards

A
  • Multisocket: Supports multiple physical CPU packages. Split the load
  • Memory slots: Supports 4+ modules
  • Expansion slots: Many slots and different sizes
  • Overall size: Designed for a rack-mounted system. Larger ATX-sized system
111
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Compatibility

Desktop motherboards

A
  • Can range from full-size motherboards to compact or monitor-only systems: We can do a lot with increasingly smaller systems
  • Single CPU: Reduces cost and complexity
  • Memory slots: Usually two or four
  • Expansion slots: May have limited options.
112
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Motherboard Compatibility

Mobile motherboards

A
  • Laptops: Small and light
  • CPUs: Limited in speed. Therma throttling
  • Limited system modification: Memory, CPU, functionality
  • Portability: Smaller devices. Lower power consumption.
  • System board: Proprietary. Built to fit. Replacement isn’t easy. Swap the entire board. Most components are on the system board.
113
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS

BIOS - Basic Input/Output System

A
  • The software used to start computer: The firmware. System BIOS, ROM BIOS. ROM of flash memory
  • Initializes CPU and memory: Build the workspace
  • POST: Power-on-Self-Test
  • Look for a boot loader: Start the operating system
114
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS

Legacy BIOS

A
  • The original/ traditional BIOS: It’s been around for more than 25 years
  • Older operating system talked to hardware through the BIOS: Instead of accessing hardware directly
  • Limited hardware support: No drivers for modern network, video and storage devices.
115
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS

UEFI BIOS

A
  • Unified Extensible Firmware Interface: Based on Intel’s EFI (Extensible Firmware Interface)
  • A defined standard: Implemented by the manufacturers
  • Designed to replace the legace BIOS: Need a modern BIOS for modern computer. Graphical and text based.
116
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

The secret button(s)

A
  • Launching the system setup: Del, F1, F2, Ctrl-S, Ctrl-Alt-S
  • Hyper-V (Windows 8/10/11): Turn Windows features on and off
  • VMware Workstation Player: http://www.vmware.com/products/player/
  • But not VirtualBOx: http://www.virtualbox.org
  • Many simulators online: Search for “UEFI BIOS simulator”
117
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

Fast startup

A
  • Windows 8, 10, and 11: Doesn’t actually shut down all the way. Starts up so quickly, you can’t open the BIOS configuration
  • From the Windows desktop: Hold down shift when clicking Restart. Settings/ Update & Security/ Recover/ Advanced startup / Restart now. System Configuration (msconfig)
  • Interrupt normal boot three times: Presents the boot option screen.
118
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

Important tips

A
  • Make a backup of your BIOS configuration: Write detailed notes. Take a picture
  • Don’t make a change unless you’re certain of the setting: It’s difficult to leave it alone.
  • Did mention the backup?: It can save a lot time!
119
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

Boot options

A
  • What happens when you power on?: The BIOS knows
  • Disable hardware: Unavailable to the operating system
  • Modify the boot order: Which boots first? Move to the next in order. USB drive, SSD, hard drive.
120
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

USB permissions

A
  • A security challenge: Very small storage devices. Very large capacities
  • USB connections: Convenient. High speed.
  • US Department of Defense banned USB flash media for 15 months in 2008: SillyFDCworm
121
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

Fans

A
  • Computing power creates hear: A lot of heat
  • Many different cooling fans: CPU fans, Chassis fans
  • Motherboards often include an integrated fan controller: And temperature sensors. The motherboard increases and decreases the fan speeds.
122
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

Secure Boot

A
  • Malicious software can “own” your system: Malicious drivers or OS software
  • Secure boot: Part of the UEFI specification
  • Digitally sign known-good software: Cryptographically secure. Software won’t run without the proper signature.
  • Support in many different operating systems: Windows and Linux support
123
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

UEFI BIOS Secure Boot

A
  • UEFI BIOS protections: BIOS includes the manufacturer’s public key. Digital signature is checked during a BIOS update. BIOS prevents unauthorized writes to the flash.
  • Secure Boot verifies the bootloader: Checks the OS bootloader’s digital signature. Bootloader must be signed with a trusted certificate. Or a manually approved digital signature.
124
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

Boot password management

A
  • BIOS Password / User Password: System won’t start. Need the password to start the operating system.
  • Supervisor Password: Restrict BIOS changes. Must use supervisor password to change BIOS configurations.
  • Remember your password! : Must reset the BIOS to recover.
125
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

Clearing a boot password

A
  • Store the BIOS configuration: Your settings
  • Complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS): A type of memory. May be backed up with a battery
  • Usually flash memory these day: Easily stored and accessed.
  • Reset with a jumper: Short (connect) two pins on the motherboard
126
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

The “CMOS” battery

A
  • Not needed for today’s flash-based storage: Maintains older BIOS configuartions. May only be used to maintain date/time.
  • A bad battery will require a BIOS configuration or date/time configuration on every boot.
  • On older systems, can reset the BIOS configuration by removing the battery: Newer computers use a jumper.
127
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

Trusted Platform Module (TPM)

A
  • A specification for cyptographic functions: Hardware to help with encryption functions
  • Cryptographic processor: Random number generator, key generators
  • Persisitent memory: Comes with unique keys burned in during production.
  • Versatile memory: Storage keys, hardware configuration information
  • Password protected: No dictionary attacks.
128
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: BIOS Settings

Hardware Security Module (HSM)

A
  • Often used in large environments: Clusters, redundant power
  • High-end cryptographic hardware: Plug-in card or separate hardware device
  • Key backup: Secured storage for servers. Lightweight HSMs for personal use (Smart card, USB, flash memory).
  • Cryptographic accelerators: Offload that CPU overhead from other devices.
129
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: CPU Features

Operating system technologies

A
  • 32-bit vs. 64-bit: Processor specific
  • 32-bit processors can store 2^32 = 4, 294,967,296 values
  • 64-bit processors can store 2^64 = 18,446,744,073,709,551,616 values
  • 4GB vs 17 million GB
  • The supported OS has a maximum supported value.
130
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: CPU Features

Operating system technologies

A
  • Hardware drivers are specific to the OS version (32-bit / 64-bit): 32-bit (x86), 64-bit (x64)
  • 32-bit OS cannote run 64-bit apps: But 64-bit OS can run 32-bit apps
  • Apps in 64-bit Windows OS: 32-bit apps:\Program Files (x86). 64-bit: \Program Files
131
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: CPU Features

Advanced RISC Machine (ARM)

A
  • CPU architecture developed by Arm Ltd. : They design the chip, others license and build
  • Simplified instruction set: Efficient and fast processing. Less power. Less heat
  • Traditionally used for mobile and IoT devices: The lines are constantly blurring.
132
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: CPU Features

Processors cores

A
  • Dual-core / Quad-core/ Octa-core / Multi-core: And more all the time
  • Multiple cores: Each core has its own cache. The entire chip may have a shared cache.
133
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: CPU Features

CPU die

A
  • Core
  • Shared L3 cache
  • Processor Graphics
  • Memory Controller I/O
  • System Agent and Memory Controller
134
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: CPU Features

Multireading

A
  • Hyper-Threading Technology (HTT)
  • One CPU, acts like two
  • Doesn’t actually work as fast as two: 15% to 30% performance improvement
  • Operating system must be written for HTT: Windows XP and later (any modern OS)
135
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: CPU Features

Virtualization support

A
  • Run other operating systems within a single hardware platform: Multiple operating systems share physical hardware components.
  • Virturalization in software was limited: Performance and hardware management challenges
  • Virtualization added to processor: Hardware is faster and easier to manage. Intel Virtualization Technology (VT). AMD Virtualization (AMD-V)
136
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Cards

Expansion cards

A
  • Extend the functionality of your computer: You may need more than the motherboard provides
  • Relatively simple process: Designed for end-user installation
  • Install hardware: Add a card
  • Install driver: Software for the operating system
137
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Cards

Sound card

A
  • Output: High-end audio. Advanced headphone amp. Home theater, Dolby decoding
  • Multiple inputs: Music capture. Podcasting. Microphone.
138
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Cards

Video card

A
  • Many CPUs include an integrated GPU: Video functionality is built into the CPU package.
  • Discrete graphics: The GPU is not part of the CPU
  • Separate interface card: High performance
139
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Cards

Capture card

A
  • Video as an input: Video capture, live streaming, external cameras
  • High performance; Video bandwidths can be quite high. PCI Express connection
140
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Cards

Network Interface Card (NIC)

A
  • Ethernet connection: Motherboard may not include a NIC. Onboard NIC may not be working.
  • Additional connections: Servers, routers, security devices.
141
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Cards

Multi-port ethernet

A
  • For multiple ethernet connections
142
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Cards

Documentation

A
  • Check the motherboard documentation: Number and type of slots
  • Check the adapter card documentation: Minimum requirements - Hardware, software. Knowledge base - Any “gotchas?”.
  • You may need to perform a driver installation before installing hardware.
143
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Expansion Cards

Driver installation

A
  • You checked the documentation first, right?
  • Check the web for the latest version
  • Uninstall previous drivers through Window Device Manager
  • Manufacturer provided setup program
  • Manual installation through Windows Device Manager
  • Check the Device Manageer for the status: Does it work?
144
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Cooling

Case fans

A
  • Cool air is pulled through a personal computer: Always check for good airflow
  • Motherboard layout becomes important
  • Component location is key: Devices, wiring, power
  • Many different sizes and styles: And volume levels
145
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Cooling

On-board fans

A
  • Designed to cool an entire adapter card
  • Can be bulky: May take additional adapter card space
  • Usually seen on high-end graphic cards
146
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Cooling

Fan specifications

A
  • Standard sizes: 80 mm, 120 mm, 200 mm, etc.
  • Different speeds: Variable speed
  • Different noise levels: Not all fans soud the same.
147
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Cooling

Fanless / passive cooling

A
  • No fans, no noise: Silent operation
  • Specialized functions: Video servers, TV set top box, satellite, receiver, media server
  • Functions are very controlled: Carefully measured thermal tests.
  • Low power components: Heat sinks
148
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Cooling

Heat sink

A
  • Dissipae heat through thermal conduction: Copper or aluminum alloy
  • Fins/grid increase surface area: Heat is then transferred to the cooler air
  • They get HOT - don’t touch them!
  • Thermal paste creates a good contact between the chip and the heat sink
149
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Cooling

Thermal paste

A
  • Thermal grease, conductive grease: Thermally conductive adhesive
  • Place between the heat sink and the component: Improves thermal conductivity. Moves the heat away from the component.
  • A little bit goes a long way: Pea-sized application
150
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Cooling

Thermal pad

A
  • Conduct heat without the mess: Cut to size and install
  • Easy to use: Won’t leak and damage components
  • Almost as effective as thermal paste: But still very good
  • Not reusable: Remove and replace
151
Q

3.4 - Motherboards: Cooling

Liquid cooling

A
  • Coolant is circulated through a computer: Not a new concept. Used in automobiles, mainframe computers
  • High-end systems
  • Gaming, graphics
  • Overclocking
152
Q

3.5 - Computer Power

WARNING

A
  • Always disconnecct from the power source when working on a device: Always. Seriously.
  • Some devices store a charge in capacitors: Know how to discharge before touching
  • Never connect your body to any part of an electrical system: Do not connect yoursef to the ground wire of an electrical system.
  • Respect electricity: It does not respect you.
153
Q

3.5 - Computer Power

Computer power supply

A
  • Computer uses DC voltage: Most power sources provide AC voltage
  • Convert 120 V AC or 240 V AC: To 3.3 V DC, 5 V DC, and 12 V DC
  • You’ll know when this isn’t working: An important component
154
Q

3.5 - Computer Power

Amp and volt

A
  • Ampere (amp, A) - The rate of electron flow past a point in one second: The diameter of the hose
  • Voltage (volt, V) - Electrical “pressure” pushing electrons: How open the faucet is
155
Q

3.5 - Computer Power

Power

A
  • Watt (W) - measurement of real power: volts * amps = watts. 120V * 0.5A = 60W
156
Q

3.5 - Computer Power

Current

A
  • Alternating current (AC): Direction of current constantly reverses. Distributes electricity efficiently over long distances. Frequency of this cycle is important. US/Canada uses 110 to 120 volts of AC (VAC), 60 hertz (Hz). Europe uses 220 to 240 VAC, 50 Hz
  • Direct current (DC): Current moves in one direction with a constant voltage.
157
Q

3.5 - Computer Power

Dual-voltage input options

A
  • Voltage varies by country: US/Canada - 120 volts of AC (VAC), 60 hertz (Hz). Europe - 230 VAC, 50 Hz
  • Manually switch between 120 V and 230 V: Get your meter! Or use an auto-switching power supply
  • Don’t plug a 120 V power supply into a 230 V power source!
158
Q

3.5 - Computer Power

Power supply output

A
  • Different voltages: For different components
  • Positive and negative voltage: Voltage is a difference in potential. The electrical ground is a common reference point. Depends on where you measure from
  • At the front door of your house: The second floor is +10 feet. The basement is -10 feet.
  • +12V: PCIe adapters, hard drive motors, cooling fans, most modern components
  • +5V: Some motherboards components. Many components are now using +3.3 V.
  • +3.3 V: M.2 slots, RAM slots, motherboard logic circuits
  • +5 VSM: Standby voltage
  • -12 V: Integrated LAN. Older serial ports, Some PCI cards.
  • -5V: Available for ISA adapter cards. Most cards didn’t use it. Today’s motherboards don’t have ISA slots.
159
Q

3.5 - Computer Power

24-pin motherboard power

A
  • Main motherboard power: Provides +3.3 V, +/-5, and +/-12 V
  • 20-pin connector was the original ATX standard: 24-pin was added for PCI Express power
  • You can connect a 24-pin connector to a 20-pin motherboard: Some cables are 20-pin + 4-pin
160
Q

3.5 - Computer Power

Redundant power supplies

A
  • Two (or more) power supplies: Internal to the server
  • Each power supply can handle 100% of the load: Would normally run at 50% of the load.
  • Hot-swappable: Replace a faulty power supply without powering down.
161
Q

3.5 - Computer Power

Power supply connectors

A
  • Fixed connectors: Connected to the power supply. May have too many computers. May not have enought.
  • Modular: Add cables as needed. Fewer leftover wires, better airflow. A bit more expensive.
162
Q

3.5 - Computer Power

Sizing a power supply

A
  • Power supplies are rated by watts: Overall and by individual voltages
  • Bigger isn’t necessarily better: More expensive. Doesn’t speed up your computer
  • Physical size is relatively standard: Older cases and systems may have proprietary sizes.
  • Calculate the watts required for all components: CPU, storage devices, video adapter. Many online calculators
  • Video adapters are usually the largest power draw: Many video card specifications list a recommended power supply wattage.
  • 50% capacity is a good rule of thumb: Power supply runs efficiently and there’s room to grow.
163
Q

3.6 - Multifunction Devices

Multifunction devices

A
  • Multifunction devices (MFD): Printer. Scanner. Fax (yes, really). Network connection. Phone line connection. Print from web.
  • There are a lot of things that can go wrong: You’re going to fix them
164
Q

3.6 - Multifunction Devices

Unboxing a device

A
  • These can be large devices: Make sure you have enought room. Stay out of walkways.
  • Check the area: Power. Network. Accessibility.
165
Q

3.6 - Multifunction Devices

Printer drivers

A
  • Specific to a printer model: Get this exactly right.
  • Get the right operator system drivers: Windows 10, Windows 11
  • Get the right version of the operating system: 32-bit drivers are very different than 64-bit drivers.
  • You can’t mix and match drivers: It’s a very specific task.
166
Q

3.6 - Multifunction Devices

PCL or PostScript

A
  • PCL (Printer Commond Language): Created by Hewlett-Packard. Commonly used across the industry
  • PostScript: Created by Adobe Systems. Popular with high end printers
  • Make sure the drivers match the printer: PCL printer, PCL driver. PostScript printer, PostScript driver.
167
Q

3.6 - Multifunction Devices

Wire device sharing

A
  • USB type B: The most common connector. USB Type B on the printer, USB type A on the computer.
  • Ethernet: RJ45 connector
  • May include more than one option
168
Q

3.6 - Multifunction Devices

Wireless device sharing

A
  • Bluetooth: Limited range
  • 802.11 Infrastructure mode: Many devices using an access point
  • 802.11 Ad hoc mode: No access point. Direct link between wireless devices.
169
Q

3.6 - Multifunction Devices

Sharing the printer

A
  • Printer Share: Printer is connecterd to a computer. The computer shares the printer. Computer needs to be running.
  • Printer server: Print directly to the printer. Jobs are queued on the printer. Jobs are managed on the printer. Web-based front-end. Other utility.
170
Q

3.6 - Multifunction Devices

Configuration settings

A
  • Duplex: Save paper. Print on both sides of the page without manually flipping over the paper. Not all printers can do this.
  • Orientation: Portrait vs Landscape. The doesn’t rotate. The printer compensates.
  • Tray settings: Printers can have multiple trays. Plain paper, letterhead, etc. Choose the correct tray in the print dialog.
  • Quality: Resolution. Cooler, greyscale, Color saving
171
Q

3.6 - Multifunction Devices

Printer security

A
  • User authentication: Everyone can print. Set rights and permissions. Printing vs. managing the printer
  • Badging: Authenticate when using the printer. Your job doesn’t print until you use your employee badge. Quick and easy.
  • Audit logs: Cost management. Security monitoring. Event viewer / system events. May be built into the printer or print server.
  • Secured prints; Printer must support secure printing. Define a passcode. Use the passcode at the printer.
172
Q

3.6 - Multifunction Devices

Flatbed scanner

A
  • Different form factors: All-in-one multifunctional device. Standalone flatbed.
  • May include an ADF: Automatic Document Feeder. Multiple pages.
173
Q

3.6 - Multifunction Devices

Network scan devices

A
  • Scan to email: Scans are sent to your inbox. Large scans can fill up your mailbox
  • Scan to folder: Using SMB (Server Message Block). Send to a Microsoft share
  • Scan to cloud: Cloud storage account. Google drive, Dropbox, etc.
174
Q

3.7 - Printers

Laser printer

A
  • Combine a laser, high voltage, charged ions, powdered ink, heat and power
  • Very high quality
  • Fast printing speeds
  • Very complex: many moving parts, requires on-printer memory, messy on the inside.
175
Q

3.7 - Printers

Imaging drum

A
  • Image is drawn onto a photosensitive drum: “Painted” with a laser
  • Picks up toner: Transfers toner to the paper
  • Can be separated from the toner cartridge: Or combined
176
Q

3.7 - Printers

Fuser assembly

A
  • Heat and pressure: Melt plastic toner powder. Permanently bond toner to paper
177
Q

3.7 - Printers

Transfer belt and roller

A
  • Color laser printers: Cyan, yellow, magenta, black
  • Four separate toner cartridges
  • Image is transferred from all cartridges to the single belt: And then to a single transfer roller
178
Q

3.7 - Printers

Pickup rollers

A
  • Pickup paper: Should be a single page at a time. Problems if no paper is picked up or multiple sheets are picked
  • Should be periodically cleaned or replaced
179
Q

3.7 - Printers

Separation pad

A
  • Pull just the top sheet from the paper tray: Not multiple sheets
  • Small and inexpensive: Easy to clean or replace
180
Q

3.7 - Printers

Duplexing assembly

A
  • Printers usually print on a single side: Not both sides simultatneously
  • Printing on both sides is a two-step process: Print side one, print side two
  • You need mechanism to “flip” the page: Automatically
  • Can be built-in to the printer: Or available as an add-on
181
Q

3.7 - Printers

Stages of printing using photosensitive drum

A
  1. Processing
  2. Charging
  3. Exposing
  4. Developing
  5. Transferring
  6. Fusing
  7. Cleaning
182
Q

3.7 - Printers

The laser printing process

A
  • Step 1: Processing - Build the entire page in memory
  • Step 2: Charging - Prepare the drum with a negative electrostatic charge
  • Step 3: Exposing - Write the image with the laser
  • Step 4: Developing - Add negatively-charged toner to the imaging drum
  • Step 5: Transferring - Move the toner from the drum to the paper
  • Step 6: Fusing - Heat and pressure
  • Step 7: Cleaning - Remove excess toner
    PCE DTF C
183
Q

3.7 - Printers : Laser Printer Maintenance

Replacing the toner cartridge

A
  • Look for messages: Low doesn’t mean empty
  • The toner can also contain the OPC drum: Organic Photocondutor drum. Sensitive to light; keep it in the bag
  • Power down the printer: Safety first
  • Remove packing strips from the new drum: Replace it with the old.
184
Q

3.7 - Printers : Laser Printer Maintenance

Laser Printer Maintenance kit

A
  • Laser printers wear out: All those moving parts. Heat and pressure
  • Standard maintenance kits: Replacement feed rollers, new fuser unit, etc.
  • When to perform maintenance? Check the printer’s page counter
  • Power down and replace the components: Fuser units are HOT
  • Reset the page counter when you’re done!
185
Q

3.7 - Printers : Laser Printer Maintenance

Laser print calibration

A
  • Different toner cartridges print with different densities: Some dark, some light
  • Laser printer calibration can adjust the density: Makes it look perfect
  • Can be automated or a manual process: Every printer is different. Check the printer manual.
186
Q

3.7 - Printers : Laser Printer Maintenance

Laser printer cleaning

A
  • Laser printers are dirty: All that toner and paper dust
  • Check the manufacturer’s recommendations: Water, isopropyl alcohol (IPA). Don’t use harsh chemicals.
  • Outside - Damp cloth
  • Inside - WIpe dust away: Don’t use a normal vacuum cleaner or compressed air. Wash toner from skin with cold water. Clean rollers with IPA.
187
Q
A

Professor Messer A+ 201-1101 (4 decks)

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