How to Set Up a New Computer
Level of difficulty: Intermediate
The process of setting up the new computer follows after the tedious task of selecting computer components. This task can be very basic but when done incorrectly, it might result to immediate damage of computer components. This can be prevented through careful and correct set-up.
Materials Needed:- CPU
- monitor
- keyboard
- speaker
- mouse
- printer
- scanner
- webcam
- manual for each device
- screwdriver
- installation CDs
- computer voltage regulator
- desk
Step 1
Prepare the desk where the computer will be placed. Make sure the table is near the electric outlet and phone jack.
Step 2
Clean the desk and remove possible destructions for the computer. There should be no plastic, paper, or anything else on the desk.
Step 3
Carefully remove the computer parts one by one from their respective cartons. Get the biggest parts first and leave the chords, screws, and other smaller items in their cartons.
Step 4
Position each of the computer set’s part on the desk as how you want them to be placed. Just make sure that the equipment will be given enough ventilation behind them.
Step 5
Check if the CPU, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and speaker are properly placed. Add other devices like a printer, scanner, or webcam later.
Step 6
Plug the mouse and keyboard to the small and round PS-2 CPU ports. You can easily match which port is for the keyboard or mouse because they are usually color coded. If not, you can see a small image (mouse or keyboard) near the port giving you an idea to which cable it belongs.
Step 7
Plug the mouse and keyboard to any USB port if their cables are USB out.
Step 8
Connect the monitor to the CPU. The special monitor port can be easily recognized for its unique shape and size, suggesting that it belongs to the monitor’s cable. Most of the time, this port has a small image of the monitor near it.
Step 9
Properly screw the monitor cable to the CPU. You might experience display problems if you do not do this.
Step 10
Plug the monitor’s power cable to the CPU if the latter has a port for it. If not, connect it to the computer voltage regulator.
Step 11
Read the speaker’s manual and follow the instruction for its set-up. If a manual is not available, just look for the right color and size for the speaker’s cable. Usually, the port for speakers is green, while the color red or pink is designated for the microphone or the second speaker. The single cable end is intended for the main speaker.
Step 12
Plug the speaker’s electric socket to the computer voltage regulator.
Step 13
Connect other parts like printer, scanner, or webcam to the CPU. Make sure to read these components' manufacturer’s instructions before doing so.
Step 14
Plug all the electric sockets to the computer voltage regulator.