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1.1 One upgrade can move many pieces

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

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Saved on this device. Practice is ungraded.

Build and test

Approve a rendering-workstation GPU upgrade

A design studio specifies a 330 mm, three-slot GPU while retaining its front radiator. Estimated whole-system demand is 400 W. Select a case and PSU with 15 mm front clearance and 25% power margin. Cable bends, transients, thermals, and manufacturer requirements need separate checks.

Front clearance—
Capacity above planned 500 W demand—

Change choices to compare results, then check the requirements.

  • Leave at least 15 mm front clearance
  • Provide at least three slots
  • Cover 400 W × 1.25 planned demand
  • Support the exact required GPU connector
Lesson notes

A graphics upgrade can change fit, power, cooling, cables, and validation requirements.

Think system first

Expansion cards, power delivery, and cooling all support each other. A part that fits the slot may still be a poor choice if the case, PSU, or airflow cannot support it.

  • Check fit before buying.
  • Check power before installing.
  • Check temperatures after the upgrade.

Plain-language goal

The goal is not only to make the system faster. The goal is to make it faster while staying stable, serviceable, and safe.

Worked example

Inputs: GPU length 330 mm. Case allows 340 mm without radiator, but 315 mm with the installed radiator.

Task: Calculate clearance and decide if the current layout fits.

Check the reasoning

Without radiator: 10 mm; current radiator: −15 mm, so it does not fit. Choose a supported layout or shorter card.

Also check thickness, cable bend space, power connectors, and service access.

Course terms
  • CPU / processor: The main chip that runs instructions for apps and the operating system.
  • Workload: The job the computer is doing, such as browsing, gaming, video editing, or running virtual machines.
  • Header: Pins on the motherboard used for case buttons, front USB, fans, audio, or lights.
  • PCIe: A high-speed connection used by graphics cards, storage, and other expansion cards.
  • Lane: A data path. More lanes usually means a wider road for device traffic.
  • GPU / graphics card: The part that handles graphics work and sends images to the display.
  • PSU / power supply: The box that converts wall power into power the computer parts can use.
  • Wattage: A measure of how much electrical power a part or power supply can handle.
  • Connector: A plug or socket used to connect power, data, or devices.
  • Airflow: The path air takes through the case to remove heat.
  • Intake: Air being pulled into the computer case.
  • Exhaust: Warm air being pushed out of the computer case.
  • Driver: Software that helps the operating system talk to hardware.
  • Compatibility: Whether parts can fit and work together correctly.

PSU model cable compatibility. Apply exact-model instructions.