PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARDS— Printed circuit
boards (pcb’s) make up the majority of the computer’s
functional areas. They contain all the circuitry that
electronically manipulates the data that enters and
leaves the computer.
The number, size, and
arrangement of pcb’s varies from computer to
computer. Pcb’s maybe keyed to ensure they cannot be
inserted incorrectly. Some pcb’s are color coded. Pcb’s
have indicators and test points to help with
maintenance.
COMPUTER CONNECTIONS— The computer
must have an organized way to exchange and route data
and power signals internally and externally.
CONNECTOR ARCHITECTURE— Con-
nectors consist of a connector receptacle (jack) and a
connector plug. They are designed to terminate pcb’s,
conductors, and cables between electronic circuits
within a system, between systems and subsystems, and
their power sources.
INTERNAL CONNECTORS— Connections are
used inside the computer to interconnect the major
individual units of the computer.
EXTERNAL CONNECTORS— External con-
nectors receive electrical power from power sources,
send and receive data to and from other computers or
digital equipment, and interconnect units of the same
computer system together.
CABLE ARCHITECTURE— A cable consists of
two or more insulated conductors in a common jacket.
Cables are used to receive electrical power from power
sources, to send data to and receive data from other
computers and digital equipment, and to interconnect
units of the same computer.
COMPUTER COOLING SYSTEM— Cooling
systems are needed because the contents of any
computer generate a lot of heat.
Become familiar with the technical manuals,
diagrams, and layouts for the computers you have
responsibility for maintaining. Know how the
computer system is configured and housed. Know the
types of connections and cabling used.
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