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2.1 Slots are parking spaces

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

Plan expansion slots for a recording workstation

A recording workstation needs an x1 capture card now and a two-slot card in positions 3–4 later. The initial GPU covers 1–3. Slot 4 is physical x16/electrical x4; slots 2 and 5 are x1. Choose GPU thickness and capture placement that preserve access, ≥1 lane, and future adjacent space.

Free positions after GPU and capture card—
Capture slot electrical width—

Change choices to compare results, then check the requirements.

  • Place capture card beyond the GPU-covered positions
  • Leave at least two positions free
  • Keep the future card's adjacent positions 3–4 clear
  • Supply at least one electrical lane
Lesson notes

An expansion card needs a supported slot, adequate clearance, and access around neighboring components.

Fit checks

Check card length, thickness, slot type, case clearance, nearby cables, and whether the card blocks other slots or drive bays.

  • Length matters front to back.
  • Thickness matters across neighboring slots.
  • Service access matters for future repairs.

Bandwidth in simple terms

Some slots have more lanes than others. More lanes are like wider roads. The card and workload decide how much that matters.