Skip to learning content

Learning Center

2.1 Where everything plugs in

Lesson
Hardware safety: isolate power; never open a PSU.

Before touching hardware

  • Follow the exact model's service instructions. Shut down, unplug mains and peripherals, and disconnect any internal battery as instructed. Sleep, the PSU switch, or unplugging a laptop charger alone does not fully isolate power.
  • Let parts cool. Use a clean, dry workspace and approved ESD precautions. Hold boards by their edges, avoid contacts, account for screws, and never force connectors.
  • Never open a PSU or insert tools through its vents; stored energy can remain after unplugging. Use only modular cables confirmed compatible with the exact PSU model.
  • Isolate power before every physical change or cleaning. Powered tests are software/external observations with hands and tools out. No live probing, unspecified pin bridging, or damaged-battery servicing.
  • Stop for damage, swelling, liquid, burning smells, or unclear instructions; consult qualified service. Photos, diagrams, and supplied readings are sufficient for these exercises.

Service and ESD guidance · Example PSU cable chart. Check your exact model.

Practice lab

0 / 1solved

Saved on this device. Practice is ungraded.

Build and test

Plan a capture workstation

A video production team needs a workstation with a GPU, a separate capture adapter, and front USB-C for removable media. Choose a board and case within $200 that provide all three connections. The supplied size scale uses micro-ATX = 2 and ATX = 3; cases accept sizes up to their maximum, and usable slot counts account for GPU thickness.

Board + case—
Usable expansion slots—

Change choices to compare results, then check the requirements.

  • Board fits case
  • Matching front USB-C header exists
  • Case has front USB-C
  • GPU + capture adapter fit
  • Board and case at most $200
Lesson notes

Ports connect external devices, headers connect case features, and slots hold internal components.

Three connection groups

Rear I/O ports are the connectors users see on the back of the PC. Internal headers connect case buttons, front USB, audio, fans, and lighting. Expansion slots connect larger devices like graphics cards and adapters.

  • Rear ports help users plug in devices.
  • Headers make case features work.
  • Slots support upgrades inside the PC.

Beginner mistake to avoid

A case can have a front USB-C port, but the motherboard still needs the matching internal header. Matching the case and board prevents disappointment.