your monitor have such a selection switch, be sure it is
set for the proper line voltage. Then, plug the power
cord into one of the receptacles on the power strip.
The video input cable has a twenty-five pin serial
connector. Plug it into SLOT H on the back panel of the
system unit, where the video display board happens to
be located on this particular unit (see figure 1-28).
Ensure that whenever you plug in a cable that it is
properly and firmly seated and tightened down if the
connector comes with screws.
Connecting the Keyboard
On the end of the keyboards cable is a five-pin
connector. Plug this into the back of the system unit to
allow for communication between the keyboard and the
system unit (see figure 1-29).
Connecting the Printer
Like the monitor, the printer has its own power
cable and a data cable for communicating with the
system unit. Since most printers can operate in either
serial or parallel mode, it is important you look at the
data cable to see what type of connector you are
working with. Serial connectors are usually smaller
than parallel connectors and contain fewer pins. After
visually inspecting the data cable, connect it to the
appropriate printer connector on the back of the printer
(see figure 1-30). Should either the printer or data cable
connector have some type of locking device (screws or
cable locks), be sure to screw (or secure) them in place.
Then, connect the other end of the data cable to the back
of the system unit (slot D), as shown in figure 1-30.
Once you have made this connection, connect the power
cable to the back of the printer and plug it into the power
strip.
Figure 1-29.—Cable connection from keyboard to system
unit.
Figure 1-30.—Cable connections from printer to system unit
and power strip.
Configuring the System
Once all of the hardware has been connected to the
system unit and has power, you are ready to start
configuring the system. In most cases, the system will
recognize the hardware that was connected and make
the changes on its own, but you need to know how to go
into the system configuration to make changes. Each
system has its own procedures to follow; so get the
manual and read about your system and how to make
changes.
To make changes you will need to get into the
system setup. Normally, this is accomplished by
pressing a key or series of keys when the system is
booting up. From system setup, the following changes
can be made:
. Date and time
. Memory size
. Floppy drives
l Hard disk type
All of this information is contained in the
complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS)
chip. Since this is a memory chip, it requires a constant
source of power, a battery. The battery used most often
is a non-rechargeable lithium battery with a life
expectancy of 3 to 5 years.
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:
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