7

Technology and
Livelihood Education
COMPUTER SYSTEM SERVICING
Quarter 2-Module 6
TESTING ELECTRONIC
COMPONENTS

Department of Education ● Republic of the Philippines

 What I Know

Before starting with this module, let us measure what you already know about
Testing Electronic Components (TEC). Answer the pretest below.

Pre-test: True or False

Directions: Read the statements carefully. Write TRUE if the statement is correct
and FALSE if you think the answer is wrong. Write your answers on your
TLE-CSS activity notebook.

_______1. Job orders or client requirements give the complete description

of the testing job.
_______2. The supervisors in the manufacturing industry are considered
the responsible persons.
_______3. Datasheets and forms from manufacturers cannot help you in
knowing the specification of an electronic component to be
tested.
_______4. The testing criteria will ensure that components meet technical
and quality requirements.
_______5. Letting the relevant personnel know the testing criteria is
important.
_______6. An electronic component can be tested by only one method.

_______7. Producing an electronic component does not require testing

from the time it is being made until the final product is finished.
_______8. Every testing method has a corresponding tool to be used.

_______9. A Test plan is important.

_______10. Preparing and checking tools before using them has no

standard procedure to follow.
_______11. Recording or documenting the test result does not include
faults and problems of the component.

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 _______12. Testing the product is done to detect the faults and problems
of a component.
_______13. The documentation of the test process should not be reported
to the relevant personnel.
_______14. The documentation of test processes will help in identifying
successful methods and efficient tools.
_______15. If you are performing a test procedure more than once, the
other tests do not need to be recorded or documented.

If your score is

11-15 Very Good! You may still read the module, but you are already
knowledgeable with the topics that we are to discuss.

6-10 Good! Go over the items that you find difficult and then you may proceed to
the lessons in this module that you don’t understand.

0-5 Don’t worry about your score. This module is designed for you to understand
all about testing electronic components, the tools, the methods, and the
procedures needed to perform very complex tasks. So, what are you waiting
for? Start your journey. Turn to the next page.

What’s In
This module is packed with the basic lessons on testing electronic components, in a
way which addresses your learning needs, aligned with the safety precautions set by
OHS and 5’S standards

This module utilizes your knowledge from the previous lessons about using and
maintaining hand tools, some applicable methods in performing mensuration and
calculations, and few skills in terminating and connecting electrical wiring and
electronics circuit.

Before going over to the basics of testing electronic components (TEC), let us
start first with an exercise that may help you determine your prior learnings, and help
you open the door to what’s new about this module.

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Activity 1. Identification - Determining Tools Versus Components.

Directions: Identify the pictures if it is an electronic component or a testing tool. Write

EC if it is an electronic component and TT if is a testing tool. Write your
answers in your TLE-CSS activity notebook.

1. Multi-tester _________________________

Computer Motherboard

2. _________________________

Power and Reset Switches

3. _________________________

Power Supply Tester

4. _________________________

CMOS Battery

5. _________________________

Power Supply

6. _________________________

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 Diagnostic Card

7. _________________________

Cable tester

8. __________________________

Processor

9. __________________________

Memory (RAM)

10. __________________________

Graphics Card

11. __________________________

Graphics Analyzer

12. __________________________

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 What’s New

This module includes some of the tools and standard procedures you have
learned from the previous lessons, which will be used in various testing methods on
electronic components.

This module also introduces digital testing tools and advance methods that can
do the testing job efficiently and effectively to meet the specification and technical
requirements of an electronic component to satisfy the job orders from the clients.

The Tools
Based on the older practices and references, Voltmeters and Multi-meters were
used to test power output on computer power supplies. Testing was done terminal to
terminal and point to point of the circuit or component. (refer to the photos below)

Figure 1. Testing on an ATX PIN individually Figure 2. Individual reading

https://www.youtube.com (Screenshot) https://acidx.net/wordpress

But now, advance tools are being used to make the work easier and faster. For
example, you can test multiple PINS of a power supply simultaneously to get multiple
results right away. (refer to the photos below)
Figure 3. Simultaneous Testing Figure 4. Multiple reading

https://www.amazon.ca https://www.ebay.com

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The Methods
A few years back, technicians were using the BEEP ANALYZING method in
determining computer motherboard faults and problems. Motherboard problems and
fault has a corresponding beep code. Beep codes vary from manufacturer of
motherboards and version of BIOS. Refer to the table below for AMI BIOSs.

Beep Code Analysis Recommended Fix

One Beep Refresh Failure Reseat/replace memory (RAM),

Troubleshoot Motherboard.

Two Beeps Parity Error Reseat/Replace memory,

Troubleshoot Motherboard.

Three Beeps Memory Error (first Reseat/Replace memory.

64KB)
Four Beeps Timer Failure Troubleshoot Motherboard.

Five Beeps Processor Failure Troubleshoot CPU, Troubleshoot

Motherboard.

Six Beeps Keyboard Controller Troubleshoot Keyboard,

Failure Troubleshoot Motherboard.

Seven Beeps Virtual Mode Troubleshoot CPU, Troubleshoot

Exception Error Motherboard.

Eight Beeps Display Memory Troubleshoot graphics card,

Failure Troubleshoot Motherboard.

Nine Beeps ROM BIOS Replace ROM BIOS, Reflash

Checksum Failure BIOS, Troubleshoot Motherboard.

Ten Beeps CMOS Shutdown Troubleshoot Motherboard.

Register Failure
Eleven Beeps L2 Cache Failure Troubleshoot L2 cache,
motherboard.

Continuous Beeps Memory or Video Troubleshoot Memory,

Failure Troubleshoot Graphics Card,
Troubleshoot Motherboard.

Table 1. The Beep Code Table

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 As the technology advances, PC Analyzers or Diagnostic Cards, and other
digital tools are being used to diagnose faults and problems on electronic components
because manufacturers and industries found out that some methods will fail in some
cases.

For instance, the Beep Analyzing method, as mentioned above, will fail when
the onboard speaker or buzzer of a motherboard is dead because the test personnel
cannot hear a beeping sound anymore. So, instead of counting the beeps, PC
Analyzers display digits or codes to signify faults and problems, and these codes are
the being referred to as an error code table or lists provided and specified by the
manufacturer of the testing tool. (see photos and table below)

Figure 5. PCI TYPE Diagnostic Card Figure 6. USB TYPE Diagnostic Card

https://www.youtube.com (Screenshot) https://www.aliexpress.com

Error Code Interface Software / Error / Fault

BIOS Version
00 AMI Bootloader is OK, System
is OK.

08 Award Low Memory

08 Phoenix, Dell Ram Verification Failure

Table 2. The Error Code Table

The reading above in figure 5 displays a code. The user manual of the
diagnostic card has a list of codes, as shown in Table 2, with the corresponding error
that is different for every version of Interface software or BIOS version.

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 These diagnostic tools come in various types. They are evolving from the PCI
type in figure 5, to the newer USB type in figure 6. These types are developed to satisfy
the needs of the users depending on the situation. For example, a newer model of
computers does not support PCI devices anymore, or older computers do not have a
USB port. Some manufacturers even develop the combination type for more testing
flexibility such as the testing tool below.

Figure 7. COMBINATION TYPE Diagnostic Card

Parallel port USB port

https://shopee.ph

Serial PIN

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 Lesson
The Criteria for Testing
1
What is It

Testing Electronic Components (TEC)

Testing refers to the methods and procedures of determining the signals and
responses from an electronic component. This is done to ensure the quality,
performance, and serviceability of the components. All testing process must follow
criteria. These criteria are needed before making the plan.

Obtaining the Job Order

A job order is a form containing specifications of a task to do. This usually
includes instructions, date, and time to execute the order, address or location of the
worksite, the name of the client and his contacts, and the name of the technician.
Either you’re a test personnel in an industry or a technician in a shop, testing always
uses the job order or the client requirements as the guide. Below is a sample of a job
order form.

Form 1. A job order

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 If you are working in a manufacturing industry of electronics components, the
responsible personnel or the supervisor in your technical department gives you the
work instructions in a form of job orders to specify the task to do.
On the other hand, testing on repair shops sometimes refers to job orders given
by the clients or customers. It is the client who gives the job, but most of the time,
technicians already know what to do if the shop is already following standardized
procedures.

Communicating or Reporting the Desired Method to Use.

The desired method that you are going to use must be reported or
communicated to the responsible person or the supervisors for verification and
approval, to ensure an efficient workflow and the success of the test. Therefore, if you
will be planning to do something, report it first to the responsible personnel.

Using the Appropriate Method

When a method and tools are approved for testing, it is considered the most
appropriate method and tools to use. The selection of the methods and tools is usually
based on the component’s specification and manufacturer’s instructions. This is a
standard practice among industries, which aims to produce quality services, efficient
workflow, effective tools, and safe working environments.

Recording the Test Process

The testing does not only require complying with the job order, consulting to the
responsible personnel, selecting the efficient method, or preparing effective tools. It
also requires recording the test process for evaluation purposes. The technician must
be able to determine at which point must he record and document the test process for
an accurate data gathering.

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 What’s More

Activity 2. The Job Order

Directions: Analyze the situation carefully. Create a sample job order on a separate
bond-paper with A4 size. This will be compiled with your portfolio.

Assume you are the responsible personnel or the customer service

representative of a manufacturing company or a repair shop, and there comes a
customer (a client) who claims a warranty or needs a repair service of his desktop
which does not turn ON and keeps on beeping continuously. After an interview with
the client, you were able to record the details as follow:
The name of the customer is Mr. Rowel Avila. He lives in Poblacion, Bonifacio
but the defective unit is in his office at Bonifacio NHS, Liloan, Bonifacio, Mis. Occ. Mr.
Avila’s number is 0997-607-0691, but he is too busy to attend with the repair service,
so he instructed one of his staff named Arlyn Besana to assist the technician. The staff
can be reached at 0910-177-3320. These are the only details you got.
Create a job order for Mr. Avila, so the technician will know the details or
specifics of the job. (refer to the example of the job order form on page 10, Form 1).

RUBRIC FOR JOB ORDER

Completeness The sheet must indicate the efficiency 4
of the tools and effectivity of the testing tools used by
used. the technician throughout the entire
procedure.
Completeness The sheet must indicate the 4
of the methods appropriateness of the testing methods
or techniques and techniques applied by the technician
applied throughout the entire procedure.
Summary of the The sheet must indicate the summary of 2
evaluation the evaluation, including the
recommendations of the responsible
personnel or evaluator.
Total 10

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 Lesson
The Plan for Testing
2
What is It

Planning is a must before any action. Without a plan, a test process will fail, or
will not meet the job order or client requirements.

What Tools to use?

Always choose the right tools that will give you accurate results in a lesser time.
Thus, safety comes first. Always remember to check the selected tools for functionality
and serviceability conditions. You also need personal protective equipment. Always
be mindful of the things that bring hazards to your health.

When to Start Testing?

After obtaining the job order or client requirements, you need to determine the
methods to use, the tools needed, and the amount of time to finish the job. If everything
is ready and set, then it is time to start the job. Below is an example of a test plan.

Form 2. A Test Plan

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 What’s More

Activity 3. The Test Plan

Directions: Refer to the situation in activity 3 on page 16. Assume that the job order
was given by your supervisor. Make a test plan based on the job order.
Refer to the example of a test plan on page 12, form 2. Write your answers
on a separate bond-paper with A4 size. This will be compiled with your
portfolio. Do it manually with a pen and a ruler.

RUBRIC FOR TEST PLAN

Completeness All tasks must be listed. The job order # 4
of the job and date must be indicated, as well as
details. the target date of completion.
Completeness All necessary tools must be prepared 4
of the tools. according to the method to be used.
Specification of All components to be tested must be 2
the component. enumerated or specified.
Total 10

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 Lesson
Testing the Components
3
What is It

There are four (4) basic testing methods done in manufacturing industries and
repair shops of computer electronic components. Each method can be done in various
procedures depending on the specific task and tools used. These are:

1. Continuity Test – the act of testing to validate if two points or terminals are
connected electrically to assure a continuous flow of signal or electrical
current. When a capacitor does not work, it could be busted and broken.

This test is usually done with the use of a MULTITESTER. Each probe of
the tester is positioned on each terminal of the capacitor to detect a
response. If there is no response, then it is confirmed that the capacitor is
dead. Refer to the picture below:

Figure 7. Testing the Capacitor

https://electrical-engineering-portal.com

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2. Voltage or Current Test – a method used to detect losses or increase in voltage.
If a power supply is expected to give a 12 volts output, it should give the right
amount of voltage. Higher or lower than specified is considered defective.
This test is usually done with the use of a MULTITESTER, or a POWER
SUPPLY TESTER. Refer to the photos on page 6 for a picture of the voltage
testing process.

3. Performance Test – this is done to validate if the electronic component performs

as specified by the manufacturer. For example, if a processor is intended to run
with a HYPERTHREADING capabilities, then it should work as expected.
This test is usually done with the use of software and utilities. An example of
this is the software called “Performance Test”. You can run this software directly
from a USB storage. This software is capable of testing various hardware
performances. Just select the desired test on the menu on the left, then click run
to start the test. The tool looks like this:

Types of Test
The Run Button

https://www.passmark.com/products/performancetest/download.php

4. Diagnostic Test – This is done to detect faults and problems. For example, if a
computer keeps on beeping at startup, then there should be a fault or problem with
the peripheral components or the motherboard itself.

This test is usually done with the use of a Diagnostic Cards or PC ANALYZER.
Refer to the photos on page 8 for a picture of the diagnostic testing process.
Overall, if the component is functioning well and performing as specified by the
manufacturer, then it is considered a quality product or serviceable product.

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 What’s More

Activity 4. Essay

Directions: Read and answer the questions briefly. Write your answers on a separate
bond-paper with A4 size. This will be compiled with your portfolio.

1. Why do we need to test electronic components?

2. When do we conduct the test?
RUBRIC FOR ESSAY
Content The content was well-thought, guide 4
questions were thoroughly answered
Organization The paper was well-written with ideas 3
easily conveyed to readers
Development Points are thoroughly developed 3
Total 10

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 Lesson
Evaluating the Test Process
4
What is It

Evaluating the test process is important because it will determine the success of
similar future tests. It is done to determine the quality of the test procedures. It also
determines the performance of the test personnel and his technical needs.

To evaluate the test process, you must be able to answer the following questions:

What did you do?

Your methods and procedure should simply match with the job order.

Why did you do it?

Your methods and tools must align with the standardized procedures or
manufacturers’ instructions.

What did you find?

The testing process must produce the desired result as planned.

What did you communicate?

Always make a record and report your findings to responsible personnel or to the
clients.

What was the overall status of the test itself?

Always remember, the goal of the test is to comply with the job order or satisfy the
clients’ requirements.

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Below is an example of a test evaluation sheet. The evaluation sheet looks like this.

Form 3. Test Evaluation Form

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 What’s More

Activity 5. Test Evaluation.

Directions: Refer to the situation in activity 3 on page 16, again. Assume that the job
order was completed by a technician named Mr. Technicio Apprentice.
Your task is to act as the supervisor of a repair shop. Make an evaluation
sheet for Mr. Apprentice. Refer to the example of a test evaluation form
on page 15, form 3). Write your answers on a separate bond-paper with
A4 size. This will be compiled with your portfolio. Do it manually with a pen
and a ruler.

RUBRIC FOR EVALUATION SHEET

Completeness Names, addresses, and contacts are 4
of the customer complete for easy location and
and job site communication
information
Clarity or the The customer demands or needs are 4
service or order specified for appropriateness of methods
details and tools to be prepared and used.
Inclusion of the This is for verification, communication, and 2
details of the evaluation of the job performed.
technician.
TOTAL 10

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 What I Have Learned

Activity 6. Sentence completion.

Directions: Copy all the sentences on a separate bond-paper with A4 size and supply
the missing words. This will be compiled with your portfolio.

1. I learned that there are four (4) basic known types of electronic
components testing such as _______________, ______________,
______________, and ________________.
2. Testing and measuring tools are used to determine the serviceability
and functionality of an electronic ___________.
3. Referring to the job order or _____ requirements makes the job
specific and guided.
4. To evaluate a testing job after completion, an __________ sheet is
needed.
5. A job order or client requirements contains the __________ of the
job.
6. In testing electronic components, planning comes after obtaining the
________ for testing.
7. Documentation means to __________ the details of the process.
8. The criteria for testing come first before the planning stage, testing
stage, and the evaluation stage ________.
9. Reporting and communicating to the _____________ personnel
ensures an efficient workflow and success of the test.
10. A client is also known as the __________.
11. Preparing and __________ the tools before and after using them is a
standard practice.
12. OHS policies must be observed because it means _______ first.
13. The testing procedures are usually done in places like manufacturing
industries, electronic component stores, and repair _____.
14. Testing refers to the procedure of determining the signals and
_________ from an electronic component.
15. A testing tool is used to ____ signals and responses from an
electronic component.

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 What I Can Do

Activity 7. Be an Evaluator.

Directions: Visit the site youtube.com and find a video tutorial on testing the computer
motherboard. Watch and observe the video, then do the following:

1. Prepare your own evaluation form.

2. Make a list of tools used in the entire procedure.
3. Make a list of the methods used.
4. Make an evaluation sheet of the testing procedure in that video.
 For the Technician’s Name, just write the YOUTUBE link of
the video
 For the Job Order #, just write the title of the video.
 For the Job Order Date, just write the date when you view
the video.
 For the Evaluator’s Name, just write your name.
 Do not forget to write your remarks on the test, your signature,
and the date of signing.

Note: Your accomplished evaluation form will be compiled in your

portfolio.

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 Assessment

Directions: Read the statements carefully. Write TRUE if the statement is correct and
FALSE if you think the answer is wrong. Write your answers on your TLE-
CSS activity notebook.

_____1. The complete description of the job is not specified in the job
order.

_____2. Communicating and reporting to the supervisors can only give a

problem to the test personnel.
_____3. Datasheets and application notes from manufacturers contain
specification of an electrical component.
_____4. The testing criteria serve as the basis for the testing plan.
_____5. The testing criteria do not need approval from the responsible
personnel or supervisor.
_____6. Some components can be tested using various methods and
tools.
_____7. Electronic component production requires testing for quality
assurance.
_____8. You can use any tools for a specific testing method.
_____9. Testing plan is important to perform the job smoothly.
_____10. Checking and maintaining the testing tools follows a standard
procedure
_____11. Recording and documenting only includes successful
procedures.
_____12. The only purpose of testing is to check the quality of the product.
_____13. Documentation should be kept confidential from anybody.
_____14. Documentation helps you discover efficient methods and
effective tools.
_____15. All testing procedures must be recorded.

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 30
Additional Activities
1. Evaluating
2. Testing
3. Planning
4. Criteria
5. Testing
6. Planning
7. Criteria
8. Evaluating
9. Testing
10. Testing
What I Know (Pre-test)
Assessment
What’s In (Activity 1) 1. True
1. False
1. TT 2. True
2. False
2. EC 3. False
3. True
3. EC 4. True
4. True
4. TT 5. True
5. True
5. EC 6. False
6. True
6. EC 7. False
7. True
7. TT 8. True
8. False
8. TT 9. True
9. True
9. EC 10. False
10. True
10.EC 11. False
11. False
11.EC 12. True
12. False
12.TT 13. False
13. False
14. True
14. True
15. False
15. True
Answer Key
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