1. The PC Build assignment has specific requirements such as using IEEE citations. For most, this will be the first and possibly only time you are required to utilize IEEE standards/formatting. I do not agree with using IEEE due to the remainder of your curriculum at almost any level at any institution utilizing APA formatting. However, no matter what I think, UMUC sets the rules and we must adhere to them, no questions asked. Some other requirements include:
o The PC Build assignment has minimum standards as part of the grading rubric that must be followed as well. You must include your name in the file name you submit in LEO.
o You must include a proper title page.
o Citations must be shown for pictures, paragraphs, and as part of your reference section at the end of the build.
o You must meet the criteria listed for each item in the build.
o You must break the assignment up and submit it as three separate assignments, and not one large one.
o You must include brand and model recommendations for each component so that you can demonstrate a mastery of the material.
o You may resubmit each PC Build draft once, and each must be submitted within 7 days of your original submission. For example, if you submit PC Build Draft 1 on 10/15, you may make changes based on my feedback and resubmit no later than 10/22; after that only your original grade will count.
o NOTE: NO late work is accepted, so you cannot submit or resubmit after the course ends, no exceptions.
2. Failure to follow the instructions above will result in assignments being returned ungraded, or failing grades.
PC Build and Manual (Parts 1-3)
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Overview
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You will provide a comprehensive and detailed manual documenting the step-by-step process for building a computer using the components provided in LabSim 14.1 and for the Video Card only, use information in LabSim 3.12: “Build a Computer from Scratch.” The manual will be used by entry-level technicians, so it should be clear, concise, and formatted using IEEE citation style, with screenshots of each step from LabSim 14.1 and for Video Cards only, use LabSim 3.12. Your manual should be similar to step-by-step instructions on How to Change the Oil in Your Car. Note carefully how in this example, not only is each step described individually, and in detail, but also there is a visual representation of each step. You should model your submission along the same lines. Keep in mind that your manual will be used as a guide for new technicians.
The manual should not document how to complete a LabSim section; rather, it should provide detailed instructions on how to build an actual computer for a potential customer:
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“Drag the motherboard from the shelf to the motherboard plate in the system case.”
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“After properly grounding yourself, pick up the motherboard and place it inside the area where the motherboard will sit in the case. Align the screw holes on the motherboard with the screw holes on the case. Use appropriate screws to mount the motherboard inside the case, making sure not to scratch the surface of the motherboard.”
To learn about the required parts which must be present in your submissions, and to learn how you will be assessed on this assignment, please take a moment to review the rubrics.
The manual will be submitted in three separate parts. Part 1 addresses Sections 1-5 of the overall manual, Part 2 addresses Sections 6-10, and Part 3 addresses Sections 11-12.
PC Build & Manual Part 1:
1. Workspace Preparation (LabSim 2.0)
2. Installing Motherboard (LabSim 3.3)
3. Installing Power Supply (LabSim 3.2)
4. Installing CPU (LabSim 3.5)
5. Installing RAM (LabSim 3.7/3.8)
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Computer Requirements
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· use the motherboard provided on the shelf
· appropriate power supply that support the motherboard
· fastest processor possible (available on the shelf and compatible with the motherboard)
· maximum memory possible in dual channel mode
· single hard drive
· single CD-DVD drive
· single video card
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Manual Sections
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In addition to including the sections listed below, your manual should
· address the environment in which the computer build will take place. For example, what are the best practices when working in a carpeted room?
· not use computer jargon. Although the manual will be used to train new technicians, it may also be used by someone with limited computer knowledge, so the manual must be easy to understand.
· include explanations on methodology. For example, why is it important to use an antistatic grounding bracelet when working with the computer? Or why is it important to install memory sticks in pairs?
The 12 sections of the overall manual are as follows:
1. Workspace Preparation (LabSim 2.0)
2. Installing Motherboard (LabSim 3.3)
3. Installing Power Supply (LabSim 3.2)
4. Installing CPU (LabSim 3.5)
5. Installing RAM (LabSim 3.7/3.8)
6. Installing Hard Drive (LabSim 5.2)
7. Installing Optical Drive (LabSim 5.3)
8. Installing Video Card (LabSim 3.12)
9. Connecting Monitors, Keyboard, and Mouse (LabSim 4.0)
10. BIOS Configuration (LabSim 3.10)
11. Installing Windows 10 (LabSim 10.3)
12. Configuring Critical Windows Features (LabSim 9.0, 10.0, 11.0, 12.0 and 13.0)
