Republic of the Philippines

Department of Education
REGION VIII, EASTERN VISAYAS
Division of Northern Samar
CATUBIG VALLEY NATIONAL
HIGH SCHOOL

LEARNER’S ACTIVITY SHEET (LAS)

Subject: TLE 10 – CSS (Computer System Servicing) _ Grade: 10 Quarter: __ 3 Week: 6 _

Name: _ Section: Date

School: _Catubig Valley National High School District: _Catubig I

Conduct testing and Documentation

1.1 Identify device and specification
1.2 Test device / Conduct stress test

A. Readings/Discussions

Computer Specifications & Documentation

If you’re in the market for a new desktop or laptop computer, without a degree in computer science or electronics
engineering, it’s to your advantage to have at least a basic knowledge of computer architecture:

What are the critical components of a computer?

Which features are most important in your decision?

Your challenges increase exponentially if your intention is to build your own system:
Can you build a system with the basics and add features later?
What should you buy first?
What do you plan to use the computer for – basic computing, internet, video editing, high-powered gaming?

Let’s start with the basics for an understanding of PC specs and their significance.

What is the Specification?

The specification or ‘spec’ is a list of the key components that make up the computer. It is
provided by retailers to help buyers decide which PC, and which combination of features, they need.
When buying a PC, it is important to start by deciding what it is you want the PC to do. This then
informs what specification you actually need.
When reviewing a computer specification, the most important components to take account of
are the processor, the amount of RAM and the size of the hard drive as these are central to the
overall capability of the system. If it is planned to use specialised programs for students with special
needs (e.g., scan/read software), it is advisable to purchase a suitable specification computer to
meet the system requirements for these programs.
Specifications are a means of ensuring equipment and installation compliance with governing
standards.
Processors

Two companies - Intel Inc. and AMD Inc. - manufacture most of today’s PC processors and
both offer a range that balances price and performance. Processors are generally defined by their
speed - in megahertz (MHz) or in gigahertz (GHz) - and this relates to the number of operations they
can perform per second. The higher the value, the faster the PC will perform and the more
expensive it generally is. The latest dual core processors have two processors on a single chip and
operate more efficiently at lower speeds e.g. Intel’s Pentium D and AMD’s Athlon X2. More recent
more powerful processors use a 64 Bit architecture, rather than the previous 32 Bit models.

Memory (RAM)

The main working memory in a computer is called random access memory or RAM. The
processor uses this memory to run programs. RAM is measured in megabytes (MB). Most modern
computers use DDR 2 RAM. A minimum of 2024MB (2GB) of RAM is recommended for general
purpose PCs.
2048MB (2GB) of RAM is also sufficient for PCs running multimedia applications, i.e.,
those on which digital music, digital video or high-end graphics are being created/edited.

Storage – The Hard Drive

The hard drive is the computer’s primary storage area. It stores the applications and
programs that run on the PC, as well as any work created by users. From a school’s perspective, the
capacity of the hard drive, measured in gigabytes (GB), is a key criterion and should be given due
consideration when reviewing PC specifications.
A hard drive capacity of at least 80GB is recommended for general purpose PCs. A hard drive
capacity of 200GB or more is recommended if working with multimedia applications where large
graphics and digital audio/video files are being created and stored.

Some of the most important factors in your computer purchasing decision are common to both desktop and
laptop computers.
Processors
Your processor is the engine for your computer. Anything you ask your system to do will be
managed through the processor on your motherboard (more on the motherboard later).

Intel i7 Processor:

Source: Starmicroinc.net

GHz – Computer processor speed is measured in gigahertz (abbreviated as GHz). Today’s

computers are typically powered by processors rated in GHz speeds such as 2.4 GHz, 3.5 GHz, etc.
1 GHz means that the processor can execute 1 billion cycles per second. That being the case, the
higher the GHz rating, the higher the performance (power) of the processor.

GHz speed is not the only factor in selecting your processing power. Processors also vary
considerably in their performance in the number of “cores” in their architecture and the number of
“threads” for processing cycles. To illustrate, a quad-core processor with 8 threads (4 cores, 8
threads) will out-perform a dual-core processor with 4 threads (2 cores, 4 threads).

RAM
Random Access Memory (RAM) is the volatile, temporary memory your computer uses to hold your
applications and the documents or web pages you’re working with. RAM is typically installed
directly on the motherboard and is measured in gigabytes (GB), with 1 GB equaling roughly 1
billion bytes, or characters.

For basic computing such as browsing the web or working with simple documents, simple
computers and devices such as Chromebooks can get by with 2GB. Most users who expect to have
several web pages and multiple documents open at the same time will benefit greatly from 4GB,
with 8GB being even better for heavy computer applications such as gaming, editing, or 3D
applications.

For heavy graphics and modeling applications, 16GB makes life even better, boosting performance
significantly.

DDR4 RAM: DDR3 Laptop RAM:

Source: Crucial.com Source: neweggbusiness.com

Storage
In the past, this was one of the more easily-understood components of your system. Like RAM,
storage is measured in GB.

Storage is now available in two major formats:

HDD (hard disk drives) consists of spinning platters and moving heads that read and write data to
the storage media. HDD storage has become increasingly inexpensive, with 1TB (1,000 GB) drives
now included in many computers with very acceptable performance.
SDD (solid state drives) storage units are now utilized in many lightweight, high-performance
laptop computers due to their many advantages:

· Performance: With no moving parts, SSD drives exceed the performance of HDD storage.
· Size: SDDs are extremely thin and lightweight

The drawback to SSD use is that they are more expensive, although prices are becoming
comparable to HDDs in recent months.

Typical HDD: SSD Storage:

Source: bestbuy.com Source: newegg.com

Graphics Cards

If you search the internet for graphics cards, you may be even more confused than with other
computer components. There are many manufacturers providing sophisticated add-on graphics
cards to give you the highest performance in such activities as video editing, 3D graphics, and
powerful gaming programs.

For more basic computer users, the integrated graphics features that are packaged with your
system are quite acceptable for web browsing, non-3D games, watching videos, and more.

If your computer use calls for intensive gaming and complex 3D applications, installing a graphics
card from a leading manufacturer such as NVIDIA can significantly impact your performance and
gaming experience.

Gaming-quality graphics card:

Source: NVIDIA.com

Motherboard
If you’re going to build your own desktop computer, you will need to purchase a motherboard to
mount your electronic components on. This will include the RAM, Processor (also referred to as the
CPU), and other components. Your online retailer or local computer store can help you determine
the right motherboard for the mix of items you intend to install, ensuring you don’t run into any
surprises:· A processor that is compatible with the socket configuration on the motherboard
· RAM slots that are adequate to support the amount of memory you want to
install A motherboard ready for mounting CPU, RAM, and other components:
 Source: newegg.com

Cooling your system and the components installed on your motherboard is a critical consideration –
especially when building a gaming computer. Be sure you have the cooling fans or another system
(some high-powered computers incorporate liquid cooling systems) that will keep your electronics
from overheating.

Other System Components

You will also need other hardware components to complete your system:
· Case: You need a tower or desktop case to house the system. Pick a case that is easy to open for
access to the internal workings of your system.
· Power Supply: Your system will need a power supply to run the processor, cooling fans,
and storage. Don’t underestimate the power needed.
· Peripherals: You will need the usual mouse, keyboard, monitor, and such items as
gaming controllers
Computer tower case with components installed:

Source: pcmag.com

What to Buy, and What to Buy First?

Some components are of course required just to get started – case, power supply, cooling fan(s),
processor, some amount of RAM, and storage. You can always add graphics cards later in the
process, as well as adding RAM and storage. If your budget permits, invest in the best processor
you can afford – such as an Intel Core i5 CPU. This processor is even suitable for most gaming
systems.
Additional RAM and storage are easily added, so if you’re on a budget, you can save a little on the
initial expense on those items (within reason – don’t shortcut RAM under 4GB).

Laptop System PC Specs – What’s Right for You?

Laptop computers come with a wide array of options including processors, memory, storage, screen
size, battery life, and portability (weight). How do you know what’s best for your needs? There are
multiple elements to the equation:

Laptop Use: Are you using it for basic computing and internet use, video streaming, or gaming?
Cost: Your budget will play an important role in the features you select.
Portability: If you intend to travel regularly with your laptop, weight and battery life will mean a
great deal to you.

Some guidelines for selecting the right mix of features for your laptop include:
CPUs with respectable performance are processors in the Intel Core series such as i5 processors.
You can achieve better performance by stepping up to i7 processors, but at an increased cost.

Spending a little more on a SSD drive pays off in performance and reduced weight.

Monitor for at least a 12.5 to 14” screen, especially if you intend to use the laptop for regular
video streaming. Larger screens are even better but at the expense of being less portable due to
size and weight.

Anything less than 4GB RAM will also limit your performance and usability for working with
multiple applications and browsing the web at the same time. 8GB is preferable.
These basics are meant only as guidelines and apply to both PC and MAC systems.

What About Gaming System Specifications?

Good specs for a gaming PC are somewhat different from their non-gaming counterparts. Serious
gaming activity will benefit greatly from additional power:

Graphic cards: Add-on graphics cards with their own processors and video memory is
the lifeblood of a quality gaming system.
RAM speed: Make sure your memory rating is fast enough to keep pace with your processor.
For gaming, make 8GB RAM a requirement, with 12 or 16GB even better. If you have
specific games in mind, check the minimum RAM requirements for that game, to avoid
surprises.
HDD vs. SSD: SSD storage is faster and lighter, but you can store more for your dollar with
HDD. Games and add-on features can use a considerable amount of storage space, but keep
in mind that if you’re using a desktop gaming system, you can always install additional
drives later, if needed.
Whatever your choices, the goal is to have a gleaming, powerful computer ready to tackle
your workload or entertainment needs.

B. Exercises

Exercise 1

Directions: Read each items below. Write T if the statement is True and F if the
statement is False. Write your answer on the space provided for.

1. The processors uses memory to run programs.

2. A minimum of 2024MB (2GB) of RAM is recommended for general purpose PCs.

3. 2048MB (2GB) of RAM is also sufficient for PCs running multimedia applications,
i.e., those on which digital music, digital video or high-end graphics are being
created/edited.

4. The hard drive is the computer’s primary storage area

5. A hard drive capacity of at least 80GB is recommended for general purpose PCs.

6. A hard drive capacity of 200GB or more is recommended if working with multimedia

applications where large graphics and digital audio/video files are being created
and stored.
7. The capacity of the hard drive, measured in gigabytes (GB

8. When buying a PC, it is important to start by deciding what you want the PC to do.

9. Your processor is the engine for your computer.

10. Computer processor speed is measured in gigahertz (abbreviated as GHz

Exercise 2

Directions: Chose the letter of the best answer.

1. A list of the key components that make up the computer.

a. Specification or spec
b. Performance
c. Maintenance
d. Manual
2. Generally defined by their speed, in megahertz (MHz) or in gigahertz (GHz), and the relates
to the number of operations they can perform per second.
a. Monitor
b. Processor
c. Hard Disk Drive
d. RAM
3. Computer’s primary storage area. It stores the applications and programs that run on
the PC, as well as any work created by users.
a. The Hard Drive
b. Optical Drives
c. Monitors
d. Graphics and Sound Cards
4. A hard drive capacity of at least is recommended for general purpose PCs.
a. 60 GB
b. 80 GB
c. 70 GB
d. 90 GB
5. These cards are installed inside a PC and are responsible for determining the quality of the
audio and visuals (graphics and video) output by the computer
a. LAN Cards
b. TV Tuner
c. RAM
d. Sound Cards
6. An integrated graphics card with of memory is recommended for general purpose PCs.
a. 512MB
b. 256MB
c. 128MB
d. 64MB
7. Allows a computer to be connected to a network
a. Speakers and Headphones
b. Operating Systems (OS)
c. Network Interface Card (NIC)
d. Graphics and Sound Card.

C. Assessment/Application/Outputs (Please refer to DepEd Order No. 31, s. 2020)

Task: (Get Picture)

You are task to provide a propose PC to purchase. The computer should be best for online
gaming application.

Print a picture of the proposed PC get the price and its specification.

RUBRICS:
Obtain complete picture price information and its specifications 20 pts
Obtain picture and price information with lacking specifications 15 pts
Obtain picture but lack of prince information and its specifications 10 pts
Obtain picture only - 5 pts
D. Suggested Enrichment/Reinforcement Activity/ies

Obtaining Proper Component Specifications

Directions:

Check the component of the computer to obtain correct specifications.

Specification
Component Storage Speed Model Serial Other Remarks
Capacity Number Information
1. Memory
2. Data Storage Capacity
3. CPU/processor
4. Hard drive

ANSWER KEY

Exercise 1 Exercise 2 C. Assessment Essay

TRUE or 1. A (Answers may vary)

2. B
FALSE 3. A
4. B
1. T 5. D
2. T 6. A
3. T 7. C
4. T
5. T
6. T
7. T
8. T