In my second semester at St. Lawrence College, I took a course called Computer Hardware System. This course was the most engaging and practical course that I was fortunate to participate in. I was able to experience and apply what I learned to better understand the relationship between computer hardware and software. In this blog, I will discuss my most memorable experience from this course: building a computer from the ground up.
Overview of the Course
The Computer Hardware System course introduced students to functionality and relationships within the significant hardware components of computer systems. It discusses the roles of the Power Supply Unit (PSU), the motherboard, hard disk, graphics card and other components considered essential.
Furthermore, we learned about the system software and application software and discussed how these software types work together with the hardware to make a computer properly work. The course didn’t just include understanding the components. It also provided the skills needed for effective use and maintenance of a personal computer. The knowledge of the functions and relationships of the components was great, especially as we further explored the implications of how hardware and software work together.
Group Work: Cooperation is Key
The best part of this class was the group project where we assembled a computer CPU together from scratch. Our group of four friends put together worked on Group 12. Working together made it fun and educational. We each took on different jobs, but we worked together to make important decisions on how to put it together. We started by discussing what we needed, like the PSU, motherboard, hard disk, graphics card, RAM, and other parts.
Once we gathered the correct parts, we took turns assembling each piece together carefully when it was complete. At first, we all seemed apprehensive about whether the computer would work, since we had never assembled a computer before. But, with each step our confidence grew, and we quickly learned how the parts came together.
The Assembly Process: From Components to a Working Computer
The assembly of the PC components was very much like a big puzzle to solve between figuring how to put each part in its proper place and ensuring that everything operated. The process started when we secured the power supply unit into the computer case and connected all the power-to-power cables connectors. From there, we carefully placed the motherboard in the case and connected CPU, RAM, and all of the other essential components to the motherboard. Careful handling of everything was paramount to ensure that you did not damage any of the components, particularly the CPU as they are delicate.
The most important piece was the installation of the hard disk drive and connecting it to the motherboard, which was the largest concern of misalignment preventing the computer’s boot-up process. The final piece placed was the graphics card or video card.
After everything was configured, it was time to turn the system on. When we pressed the power button, we were both anxious and excited; thankfully and happily, the computer powered on! It was wonderful to see the system come alive after putting in so much effort to build it. We felt a great sense of achievement as a group knowing that we created it and it worked!
Learning Experience
This project was an enlightening experience. I learned firsthand how the primary hardware components cooperate to function as a computer system. Learning about the individual components on paper was one thing, but assembling the computer helped me truly conceptualize how they work together. The hands-on experience also allowed me an experience to greater appreciate the complexity of the architecture and the design that goes into a computer.
Furthermore, the team aspect was even more beneficial. Each member of our group contributed different skills and perspectives which assisted in troubleshooting when issues arose with the assembly. Working in a collaborative environment gave me a greater understanding of the value of teamwork in finding a solution and working towards a common goal.
Conclusion
Computer Hardware System was undoubtedly my favorite course this second semester at SLC. I gained a better understanding of the practical workings of computers and built my confidence to essentially take apart and maintain hardware systems and/or computers. The group activity involved compiling the computer from scratch, which I found to be very developmental for my technical skills as well as the importance of cooperation and teamwork.
At the end of this time, we not only successfully assembled the computer, but we also got the system going, which illustrated our efforts and knowledge we had procured during this course. This time has paid dividends for me, and it has sparked my interest to continue to additional accolades in computer systems and hardware in the decades ahead.
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