Computer System Servicing 1 NC-II

MODULE 8A (Second Semester: Week 6 - 7)

Core Competency: INSTALLING AND CONFIGURING COMPUTER SYSTEMS

Lesson Content 1: PC Building 101 – Purpose, PC build types, and Tools needed
Learning Competency: Plan unit assembly to ensure OHS policies and
procedures are followed in accordance with systems requirements
Welcome to your learning module for Computer System Servicing 1 NC-II.
In this module you will now start planning on how to build a PC from the various components and parts
we have learned from the previous modules. We will also learn how to check Hardware and Software
compatibility and lastly the brands, manufacturer of computers and its components.

PC Building 101 – Purpose, PC build types, and Tools needed

Objectives: At the end of this module, you should be able to
1. Identify the Purpose, PC build types, and tools needed in PC building.
2. Appreciate the importance of PC building and its relevance in real life.
3. Perform tasks related to the Purpose, PC build types, and tools needed in PC building.

In the Last Module we are done with the main types of software and its subtypes. The system software,
application software, and malware. We also learned about the importance of File types and how they
are seen and encountered in our daily lives.

PC Building 101: Why do we build a PC?

Most people buy “Packaged Computer” it’s cool, less hassle, and most of the time affordable however as
a student of the specialized subject CSS NC-II, where’s the fun in that? PC building is a skill you need to
learn.

From planning what PC to build and building it is an achievement not everyone can do.

Why build a PC?

You build your own DIY (Do it yourself) PC because of the following:
1. You are guaranteed on the performance and lifespan of the parts because you CHOSE the parts.
 2. Owning a PC is not just about owning it, a good PC owner knows how to build one and at the
same time maintain it and troubleshoot it.
3. Personal Accomplishment.

PC Building Guidelines

1. Consider first on HOW you will use your PC for.

2. Consider the Power usage (Watts) of your PC.
3. Check the compatibility of your PC parts both Hardware and Software
4. Consider your budget based on what PC type will you use.
5. Think hard in choosing the brands of your PC parts.
6. Check if there is no Bottleneck in your chosen PC parts.
7. If you plan for future upgrades, check if your PC parts (MOBO specifically) are compatible on
future parts to be released. (Future proofing)

What PC is best for me?

When building a PC, the very first step in planning is on how you will use your PC. Will you use your PC
for work purposes, streaming, light to heavy gaming, rendering, programming, or for casual
entertainment (social media)?

Types of PC build (According to needs, preferences, and lifestyle)

1. Office build PC
2. Gaming PC or “Gaming Rig”
3. Rendering PC (for graphics artist and animators)
4. Digital Library PC
5. Server PC
6. Ordinary PC (Casual)

NOTE:
 The six types here can be merged or combined depending on the preference of the pc builder.
The reason of the separation of types is for BUDGET purposes.
 There is no KNOWN standards to follow and this serve as a guideline.

1. Office PC build

This desktop PC is what you can see in most offices. This are standard computers used in light
applications such as Office software, Browsers, Multimedia software, a few Enterprise software. You will
use this for work primarily. Office PC will benefit also from Webcam, Scanner, and Printer Peripherals.
This Office PC is not to be confused for PC’s used by technicians, IT personnel, graphics designers, and
animators. So if you see an IT personnel posting his “Office PC” build it will be differed from what we are
learning. The Office PC build here is for the basic clerical needs of offices and companies and depending
on the company it can still vary.
Characteristics
1. Low-end PC parts
2. Budget friendly
3. Low to medium performance levels
4. Low to medium graphics performance levels
5. Additional Peripherals needed (Printer, Scanner, etc.)

2. Gaming PC or Gaming Rig

If your lifestyle is about gaming in a PC, this is for you. This PC is optimized for both performance and
quality. It is fast and has stunning graphics as compared to a Office PC or an Ordinary PC.

Gaming PC has three categories based on surveys and usage of PC owners.

1. Budget Gaming PC (E-sports PC) – This gaming pc is known for its budget saving costing of parts and is
used primarily for not performance-hungry games known as Esports (DOTA 2, LOL, Valorant, PUBG, etc.)

2. Mid-Range PC (Entry level for AAA games) – This gaming pc is costlier than the budget gaming pc but
the drastic increase of performance and quality of graphics is noticeable. This is an entry level for the
premium AAA games (games with high graphics and performance demand like Call of Duty Warzone).
The monitor resolution they use here is 2K and above but not reaching the 4K mark.

3. High-end Gaming PC (Ultimate gaming experience) – The most expensive yet POWERFUL of all
gaming PC build. This PC build has all the most expensive parts for maximum performance and quality of
graphics at 4K resolution. It can also have additional gaming peripherals and extra monitors.

NOTE: If the owner of the PC is also a streamer and plans to be a streamer additional peripherals will be
added (Webcam, Microphone, Extra Display Monitors).

Characteristics
1. Mid to High-end PC parts.
2. Expensive.
3. Medium to Ultra performance levels.
4. Medium to Ultra High graphics performance levels.
 5. Gaming Peripherals are also required.
6. Prone to overheating especially in overclocking.
7. Graphics Card is the main priority of all PC parts.

3. Rendering PC

If you will use your computer for rendering 2d/3d designs, images, vectors, layouts, videos, and
animations. This PC is for you. It has the same characteristics of a gaming PC but it is used more often in
work purposes.

Characteristics
1. Mid to High-end PC parts.
2. Expensive.
3. Medium to Ultra performance levels.
4. Medium to Ultra High graphics performance levels.
5. Additional Peripherals are needed.
6. A lot of mass storage, GPU Card and RAM is recommended.

NOTE: A gaming PC can be used for Rendering vice versa, again it all depends on your first PURPOSE of
using a PC that determines what its possible type of PC build especially considering budget.

4. Digital Library PC
Are you an archiver who loves collecting and storing music, photos, videos, ebooks, and files? Then this
PC is for you. It focuses on STORAGE above all else and has the performance to read/play the files.

Characteristics
1. Mid to High-end PC parts.
2. Can be semi expensive to expensive.
3. Medium to High performance levels.
4. Medium to High graphics performance levels.
5. Mass Storage Devices is the main priority.
6. Can be combined to other PC builds

NOTE: This is a SPEFICIC PC build to a select few but to those who may consider having a digital library
this is the best pick to begin with.
5. Server PC
This PC is the heart and brains of a small business or establishment. Clients depend on your services.
This PC build is for those who manages a company or a business.

Characteristics
1. High-end PC parts.
2. Expensive to very expensive.
3. High performance levels.
4. Medium to High graphics performance levels.
5. RAM, and Mass storage devices is a priority.
6. Networking devices are required.
7. Additional Peripherals are required. (Printer, Scanner, etc.)

NOTE: There are Servers that are industrial-grade level and cannot be purchased commercially and
usually this are the heavy duty servers we learned in Module 1 (Supercomputer, Mainframe Computer)

6. Ordinary PC/Casual PC
Also known as the “Surfer PC” most people buy a computer so they can surf the internet and browse
websites. This everyday PC is equivalent to an Office PC in terms of specifications and price but differ on
how it is use.

Characteristics
1. Low-end PC parts
2. Budget friendly
3. Low to medium performance levels
4. Low to medium graphics performance levels
5. Additional Peripherals needed (Printer, Scanner, Webcam, Headset etc.

Things to remember:

Those are the recommended characteristics of the six types of PC builds. In the end it will be your
choice. Building your PC means you will spend money so make it WORTH it.

As much as possible do not be cheap in your PC parts. QUALITY always come first.

Activity 8.1: My Understanding of the Lesson

Answer the following questions base on your understanding of the topic you read earlier about the PC
builds. Write on a separate sheet of paper make sure to write your name and section or compose a
document and send it to the messenger of your teacher with Filename as Name of student-Module8-
Activity 1

1. Why do we need to know about PC building as an ICT student?

2. Give three guidelines on things to consider when building a PC?
3. What are the three types of gaming PC? Briefly describe them.
4. What is the main thing to remember (Main basis) about the PC build category?
5. Enumerate the six pc builds and give two characteristics per pc build.

Activity 8.2: Recommend me a PC!

Answer the following questions base on your understanding of the topic you read earlier about the PC
builds. Write on a separate sheet of paper make sure to write your name and section or compose a
document and send it to the messenger of your teacher with Filename as Name of student-Module8-
Activity 1
1. Juan wants to play pc games but is on a tight budget. What PC build is recommended for him?
 2. Gina is a fashion designer and wants to design clothes via a 3D rendering software. What PC
build is recommended for her?
3. Lito is a Househusband that stays at home while his wife is an OFW worker. Lito needs a PC to
communicate with his wife and casually surf the internet. What PC build is recommended for
him?
4. Mr. Anderson owns a small office-based business and he plans to seamlessly integrate all the
files and documents in one computer to be accessed by all the employees and also provide
enterprise software. What Pc build is recommended for him?
5. Kazumi is planning to play premium games and at the same time stream it for her gaming
channel. What PC build is recommended for her?
6. Kurumi wants to enjoy games of both Esports and Premium games but however her budget is
not enough for the 4K PC builds and wants an entry level for the AAA game. What PC build is
recommended for her?
7. Sander is amassing his personal collection of MP3 files, Movies, and TV series files. His only
interest is to have a computer that can store all of his files. What PC build is recommended to
him?
8. Mr. Sy wants to make sure all his office clerks and staff have something to use for their daily
work. What PC build will you recommend to him?

System Specifications and Software Requirements

Your computer’s hardware is totally dependent on the Software you are planning to use. It is important
to check the hardware requirements of every Software you will use.

Depending on the type of computer you will build. You will have to check the Specifications of your
hardware parts to ensure it can match up with your software.

PC Parts needed for PC building

Let us now recall all the PC parts (System Unit, Storage Devices, and Peripherals)

Here is the list below of what you will need in a COMPLETE/IDEAL PC build

 PSU  Video Card

 Tower Case  ODD
 Motherboard  Monitor
 CPU  Mouse
 RAM  Keyboard
 CPU Cooling Unit  Printer (AIO)
 HDD  Headset
 SSD  UPS

Here is the list below of OPTIONAL/ADDITIONAL PC Parts that will compliment your lifestyle of using a
PC. (STREAMING PERIPHERALS are found here)
 Webcam  Speaker
 Sound Card  Microphone
 NIC  Headphones
 WLAN Card  Gaming Devices

Tools/Materials/Equipment needed for PC building

Here is the list of all the things you needed in PC building.

 Magnetic Screwdrivers (Hex and Phillips of various sizes)
 Anti-Static PPE (Wristwrap, Mat, Spray, etc.)
 Screws and Nuts
  Multitester (for troubleshooting)
 Tweezers (for small screws and nuts)
 Flash light

What makes a computer “fast”

There are several PC components that makes a computer speed fast. Here are those components.
1. CPU – Higher clock rates means faster processing speeds of instructions.
2. RAM – Higher memory for applications means more software can be opened simultaneously
without lags or crashing the OS
3. GPU – Processes a memory dedicated to load graphical programs of software especially in Visual
Graphics and Games. Higher memory means better quality and details.
4. SSD/HDD – Your files are stored here and are accessed by this device. Higher read speed means
faster reading time and loading time.

These four are considered the “core components” of software’s capability to run smooth, fast, and
efficient.

Compatibility

• Your choice of Software will dictate the Hardware you will need. It is important to check the
requirements of your software before buying your DIY PC parts.

• Hardware should also be compatible with each other too. Check the compatibility to avoid
Bottleneck

• If you plan for upgrading, be sure your parts are Future Proof (Compatible to new parts that will
be released soon)

• New hardware/software are not usually compatible to very old models of hardware parts.

EXAMPLE SCENARIO:

You want to use AutoDesk Maya 2015, AutoCad 2015, Google Sketchup, and Adobe Photoshop CC2016.
Check their requirements first.

Manufacturer websites contain the information. You can also consult to tech forums and websites.

Autodesk Maya 2015 System Requirements

NOTE: Video Card of 2008 model below are not compatible.

That’s an example taken from the AutoDesk website of the system requirements of the Software. If you
are using multiple software (which is obvious in most people). Check the HIGHEST performing software
because that is your main target.

The rest of the other software will be compatible if the highest performing software is compatible to
your planned to-buy PC parts.

NOTE: Your Operating System (Windows) has a system requirement too but it is not that high
performing unless you have OLD or ANCIENT PC parts to the version you plan to use.
Quick list of Software that are High-end in performance

1. Video Games – RAM, CPU, and GPU performance consumer. Simulation Software included also.

2. Rendering Software (Product Engineering, CAD, 2d/3D animation software, Graphics editing
Software) – More hungry for RAM and GPU. High CPU clock speed is also recommended for post
processing.

3. Database Management Software – If that is the main server it will need lots of Disk Space, RAM, CPU.
It is not hungry for GPU performance.
4.0 System Requirements
The following lists the minimum system requirements for using Sony Creative Software Inc. Vegas Pro
software:
 Microsoft® Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, or Windows 10 (64-bit)
 2 GHz processor (multicore or multiprocessor CPU recommended for HD or stereoscopic 3D; 8
cores recommended for 4K)
 500 MB hard-disk space for program installation
 Solid-state disk (SSD) or high-speed multi-disk RAID for 4K media
 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended; 16 GB recommended for 4K)
 OHCI-compatible IEEE-1394DV card (for DV and HDV capture and print-to-tape)
 USB 2.0 connection (for importing from AVCHD, XDCAM EX, NXCAM, or DVD camcorders)
  Supported NVIDIA, AMD/ATI, or Intel GPU with at least 512 MB of memory (for GPU-
accelerated AVC rendering and video processing; 1 GB recommended for 4K):

Additional 4K recommendations
• For native 4K multistream editing, additional high-speed CPU cores are recommended.
• For native 4K effect processing, additional GPU memory is recommended.
• To fully realize the native 4K experience, consider using a 4K GPU and 4K monitor.

Software Compatibility Issues

Windows OS has two architectural system types.

The 32bit (known as x86) or the 64bit (x64) and that is dictated by your processor.
Which is better?

Remember: In computers, NEWER is always BETTER and FASTER. Pertaining to System Software.

Check your application software if it requires a 32bit or 64bit OS.

NOTE: A 32bit OS cannot run a 64bit application.

A 64bit OS can run both 32 and 64bit natively.
(NEW reads OLD rule)
Bottle Neck

• When your hardware parts are compatible but one or more of your hardware parts are
dragging down your powerful one. This is bottleneck.
• Your PC configuration will always FOLLOW the MINIMUM specs in case of multiple similar
parts. Preventing your parts for reaching maximum potential.
• Other severe cases of Bottleneck is the game or software will encounter lag spikes, or crashing
of the software.
• It is best to make sure your CPU is more powerful than your GPU or at least the same level.

How do you check for Bottleneck?

Internet Research is always the key here there is no Standard or Universal Rules for bottleneck as it
differs for the specific models of the CPU and the GPU and the manufacturer is also another factor to
consider. Always check the internet but below is one of the best website to consider to check for
Bottleneck.

https://pc-builds.com/calculator/
Activity 8.3: My Understanding of the Lesson
Answer the following questions base on your understanding of the topic you read earlier about the PC
builds. Write on a separate sheet of paper make sure to write your name and section or compose a
document and send it to the messenger of your teacher with Filename as Name of student-Module8-
Activity 3

1. Give Five Important PC parts needed to build a PC?

2. Give three tools we need to build a PC
3. Enumerate the Four Core Components of what makes a computer “fast” and briefly describe it.
4. Why is it important to check the compatibility of the Software first?
5. What is Future Proofing?
6. What is a Computer Bottleneck?

Activity 8.4: Specs Hunter!

Check the picture below and answer the following questions. Write on a separate sheet of paper make
sure to write your name and section or compose a document and send it to the messenger of your
teacher with Filename as Name of student-Module8-Activity 4

1. Can Valorant Run in a Windows XP Operating System?

2. What is the Specs needed for “High-end” performance of Valorant?
3. What is the CPU needed for the minimum performance of Valorant?
4. How many RAM is required to run Valorant?
5. How many VRAM is required to run Valorant?
End of Module, Learning Assessment Exam
You are now at the end of the learning module. Congratulations for a job well done! Now only
one left thing to do before proceeding to the next module. It is time to check how much have
you learned in the self-learning module you read. You will now answer the Assessment Exam
(Quiz) which will cover all the previous topics in this module.
Upon starting the quiz, Write on a separate sheet of paper or compose a document and send it
to the messenger of your teacher with Filename as Name of student-Quiz4

Part 1: True or False

DIRECTIONS : Write T if the statement is true or write F if is the statement is false.

___ 1. You don’t need to check the Software requirements when building a PC.

___ 2. Budget is not needed to consider when planning to build a PC.

___ 3. There are Seven PC types of PC build according to preferences.

___ 4. A PC build for surfing and communication at home is the Ordinary/Casual PC.

___ 5. Check for Bottleneck issues when planning to build a PC.

___ 6. A Digital Library PC build is for those who want to prioritize storage of various files.

___ 7. In order to play the Premium Games (AAA) at 4K resolution you need the High-end
Gaming PC build.

___ 8. A gaming PC build design for esports games is the Budget Gaming PC.

___ 9. Rendering PC is used for businesses and enterprises.

___ 10. GPU is the main priority of a gaming PC.

___ 11. The Office PC is the PC you need for graphical layouts, images, vectors creation and
editing.

___ 12. PSU is an optional pc part when building a PC.

___ 13. Webcam and Gaming Devices are additional or optional pc parts.

___ 14. You don’t need screwdrivers in PC assembly.

___ 15. There are Five Core Components that make a computer fast.

___ 16. GPU is needed for graphics loading and rendering of a PC.

___ 17. Future Proofing refers to buying PC parts that will still be relevant/compatible in a few
years ahead.

___ 18. New hardware/software are not usually compatible to very old models of hardware
parts.
___ 19. Rendering Software requires more RAM and GPU.

___ 20. The two Architectural structure of Windows OS is 32bit and 69bit.

Part 2: Multiple Choice

Refer to the Picture below and answer the following questions make sure to select the correct
letter of your answer.

System requirements for AutoCAD LT 2017

 Microsoft® Windows® 10 (desktop OS)
Operating System  Microsoft Windows 8.1 with Update KB2919355 (32bit and 64bit)
 Microsoft Windows 7 SP1 (32bit and 64bit)

CPU Type 1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor
Memory 2 GB (4 GB recommended)
1360x768 (1600x1050 or higher recommended) with True Color.
125% Desktop Scaling (120 DPI) or less recommended.

For AutoCAD LT 2017.1 Update:

Display
Conventional Displays:
Resolution
1360x768 (1920x1080 recommended) with True Color

High Resolution & 4K Displays:

Resolutions up to 3840x2160 supported on Windows 10, 64 bit systems (with capable display
card)
Disk Space Installation 4.0 GB
.NET Framework .NET Framework Version 4.6

21. Dexter has a brand new laptop with a .NET Framework Version 4.0 and he can’t use AutoCAD 2017.
What requirements of AUTOCAD 2017 does he need to meet?
A. 2GB Memory B. Adobe Flash Player v10
C. 1360x768 Display D. 1 GHz CPU
E. .NET Framework Version 4.6
22. Luigi is having problems in using AUTOCAD 2017, she has a rendering PC and a monitor that can
display of a resolution of 1280x720. What requirements of AUTOCAD 2017 does he need to meet?
A. 4GB Disk Space B. 1360x768 Display
C. 800x600 Display D. 1 GHz CPU
E. None of the choices
23. Which of the following Windows OS is NOT Compatible with AutoCAD 2017?
A. Windows 7 64bit SP1 B. Windows 8.1
C. Windows 10 D. Windows Vista
E. Windows 7 SP1
24. Basilio can’t install AutoCAD 2017, upon checking his computer specs he found out he has only 3GB
disk space left. What is the disk space required to install AutoCAD 2017?
A. 4GB B. 4.5GB
C. 2GB D. 3GB
E. 5GB
25. Kristel want to use the UPDATED AutoCAD LT 2017.1 at High Resolution, her ultrabook specs are the
following:
CPU: Intel i3 2.3 GHz
RAM: 4GB
Display: 1366x768
Disk Space: 100GB Free
What Spec is INCOMPATIBLE with AutoCAD LT 2017.1?
A. CPU B. Display
C. RAM D. Disk Space E. All of the choices
PLANET ZOO GAME

26. What Windows is required for the recommended requirement.

A. Windows 7 B. Windows 8.1 32bit
C. Windows 10 64bit D. Windows 10 32bit
E. None of the choices
27. How many RAM is required for the Minimum requirement?
A. 8GB B. 2GB
C. 4GB D. 16GB
E. None of the choices
28. How many Storage is required for the recommended requirement?
A. 8GB B. 12GB
C. 4GB D. 16GB
E. None of the choices
29. Which of the following graphics card meets the Recommended Requirement?
A. NVIDIA GeForce GTX1060 B. AMD Radeon RX400
C. AMD Radeon RX580 D. NVIDIA GeForce GTX980
E. None of the choices
30. Which of the following Processor meets the minimum requirement?
A. Intel i5-2500 B. Intel i3-2700
C. Intel i3-2500 D. AMD FX-6310
E. None of the choices

END OF MODULE. CONGRATULATIONS!!

Online and Video References

https://www.newegg.com/insider/building-a-gaming-pc-for-the-first-time-dont-panic-this-
guide-can-help-you-out/
https://pcpartpicker.com/guide/
https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-build-a-pc/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/703080/Planet_Zoo/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/570/Dota_2/
https://store.steampowered.com/app/1250410/Microsoft_Flight_Simulator/
https://www.wepc.com/tips/cpu-gpu-bottleneck/
https://playvalorant.com/
https://www.vegascreativesoftware.com/ca/
https://www.microsoft.com/en-ph/windows/windows-10-specifications
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-7-system-requirements-df0900f2-
3513-a851-13e7-0d50bc24e15f
https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/support/articles/000006216/education/intel-
education-software.html
https://blog.nzxt.com/different-types-of-pcs-you-can-build/
https://www.cgdirector.com/what-kind-of-computer-do-i-need/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELOghIUQP2g
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Is7DlnWghg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qh-uXdFQC1c
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dt5CNi0aEpI
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9XuCz1FQEU
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buNRydZknbg