Inspecting and Repairing Cables

Although inspecting and repairing computer cables is not an everyday occurrence, you should know how to perform these tasks. When it comes to inspecting computer cables, there are several things to look for. Some of these are:

l Pinched cables

l Cut/broken cables

l Connectors/plugs pulled apart

l Bent pins

l Loose connections

Most of these problems can be avoided by taking your time when installing the cables, avoiding setting equipment on the cable, not pulling the cables, and tightening the connectors down.

The repairs that you will be expected to perform most often are:

l Straightening bent pins

l Tightening the connections

l Replacing broken cables

You will not be expected to repin a cable, since the equipment to perform this operation is very expensive. It is cheaper and easier to just replace the cable when it is determined that the cable is bad.

Preparing the Computer for Shipment

From time to time, you will be expected to prepare a computer for shipping out of the command. This occurs when a piece of equipment has to be returned to the manufacturer for some reason, or if the computer has to be sent to another command. In either case, the equipment must be packed up and shipped out. When possible, use the original packing material, if available. Otherwise, make sure the equipment is wrapped and packed to avoid any damage. This can be accomplished by using heavy cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, and other cushioning packing material.

SUMMARY

With the completion of this chapter, you should gain a basic understanding of how digital computer systems work. A computer system is composed of hardware and software. Electronic digital computer systems consist of a central processing unit (CPU) with its primary storage and input/output (I/O) devices. The arithmetic-logic unit and control unit process both data and program instructions. Computers use stored programs to process data and solve problems. This provides a powerful method of automatic control. In addition to operating microcomputer system, you should become proficient at setting up, configuring, upgrading, and initializing them. It is important that you become familiar with computer system documentation, including user manuals and any software training materials and help aides. Among the microcomputer-related tasks you will be expected to perform are: inspecting, repairing, and installing cables; running system checks; and troubleshooting error conditions.