Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
also connected via a wire and clip to the system chassis. Any components removed from
the system, especially items such as the processor, the motherboard, adapter cards, disk
drives, and so on, should be placed on the mat. The connection between you, the mat, and
the chassis will prevent any static discharges from damaging the components.
Note
It is possible (but not recommended) to work without an ESD protection kit if you're discip-
lined and careful about working on systems. If you don't have an ESD kit available, you can
discharge yourself by touching any exposed metal on the chassis or case.
The ESD kits, as well as all the other tools and much more, are available from a variety
of tool vendors. Specialized Products Company (
www.specialized.net
) and Stanley Sup-
ply & Services (
www.stanleysupplyservices.com
)
are two of the most popular vendors of
computer and electronic tools and service equipment. Their catalogs show an extensive
selection of very high-quality tools. With a simple set of hand tools, you will be equipped
for nearly every PC repair or installation situation. The total cost of these tools should be
less than $150, which is not much considering the capabilities they provide.
Test Equipment
In some cases, you must use specialized devices to test a system board or component.
This test equipment is not expensive or difficult to use, but it can add much to your
troubleshooting abilities.
Electrical Testing Equipment
I consider a voltmeter to be required gear for proper system testing. A multimeter can
servemanypurposes,includingcheckingforvoltagesignalsatvariouspointsinasystem,
testing the output of the power supply, and checking for continuity in a circuit or cable.
An outlet tester is an invaluable accessory that can check the electrical outlet for proper
wiring. This capability is useful if you believe the problem lies outside the computer sys-
tem.
Loopback Connectors (Wrap Plugs)
For diagnosing serial- and parallel-port problems, you need loopback connectors (also
called
wrap plugs
), which are used to circulate, or wrap, signals (see
Figure 20.5
). The
plugsenableserialandparallelportstosendandreceivedatasimultaneouslyfordiagnost-
ic purposes.
Figure 20.5
Serial and parallel port wrap plugs.
