The computer case holds all the components inside, protects them from damage, and manages airflow to keep all components cool. By removing the shroud, you can clean the dust build-up, and replace or install new parts. You can access more components on a desktop computer than a laptop, which usually only allows access to RAM and hard disk.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Opening the Desktop
Step 1. Collect all the tools
Most cases require a screwdriver to open them. Some types of casing use screws, but a screwdriver can help loosen screws that are too tight.
- The most common screws are type 6-32. Use a screwdriver #2 Phillips to take it off. These screws are larger than the two most common sizes.
- The second most common screw is M3. This screw is slightly smaller than the 6-32, but can still be removed with a #2 Phillips screwdriver.
- If you want to clean the inside of the casing, you need compressed air and small vacuum.
- Static electricity bracelet will help you to ground yourself while working inside your computer, but you can also ground it in other ways.
Step 2. Turn off the computer
Use the Shutdown function to turn off the computer.
Step 3. Unplug all cables from the back of the computer
If you're worried that you won't be able to remember where it is when you have to put it back together, take a photo or draw a diagram of the back of the computer first.
Step 4. Get to know the motherboard I/O (Input/Output) panel
This panel is on the back of the computer, and contains a variety of different connectors, including ethernet, speakers, USB, display, and more. Knowing where each connector is located will help in aligning the sheath on the table.
Step 5. Lay the shroud on the work surface with the I/O panel closest to the surface
This is to ensure that you remove the correct panel so that you can access all the components inside.
Avoid placing the cover on the carpet when working inside the computer
Step 6. Locate the screws along the back of the casing
You'll notice two or three screws running along the top edge of the back of the casing that secure the side panels. Remove these screws to remove the side panel.
Many high-end computer enclosures and some enclosures from major manufacturers use a different shroud panel mechanism. Some screws can be removed by hand, while others have simple latches without screws. If you are confused about how to remove or open the side panel of your case, look online for your computer model or case
Step 7. Ground before touching components
Electric shock can cause serious damage to components without you knowing it. Ensure that you are grounded by wearing a static-electric band on the metal exposure of the computer case, or by touching a metal water faucet.
Look for the Wikihow article on proper grounding
Step 8. Clean your open computer
Computers build up dust very quickly, and dust can cause overheating, poor performance, and hardware failure. Every time you open your computer, take time to clean it from dust.
Look for Wikihow articles on how to clean a computer
Part 2 of 3: Recognizing Desktop Components
Step 1. Get to know the motherboard (motherboard)
This large board is where all the other components are connected. The majority of the board will probably be covered by installed components. The average motherboard has a processor socket, PCI slots for graphics and expansion cards, RAM slots for memory, and SATA ports for hard drives and optical drives.
Click here for detailed instructions on how to install or replace the motherboard
Step 2. Get to know the processor
You usually can't see the processor because it's covered by the heatsink and CPU fan. The processor is usually pretty much in the middle of the motherboard, closer to the top than the bottom.
- Click here for detailed instructions on how to install the processor.
- Click here for detailed instructions on how to apply thermal paste and install the heatsink.
Step 3. Get to know RAM
RAM sticks are long and not tall, and these slots can usually be found quite close to the processor socket. Part or all of these sockets are occupied by RAM sticks.
Click here for detailed instructions on how to install new RAM
Step 4. Get to know the graphics card
If your computer has a graphics card installed, it is in the PCI slot closest to the processor, known as the PCI-E slot. The PCI slots are usually found at the bottom of the motherboard, and align with the removable bay cover behind the shroud.
- Click here for detailed instructions on how to install a new graphics card.
- Look for the Wikihow article for detailed instructions on how to install a PCI expansion card.
Step 5. Get to know the power supply
Depending on the computer case, the power supply may be at the top or bottom of the case, along the back side. The power supply is a large box that supplies power to all the components in the computer. You can follow the power supply cable to see all the components it is powered by.
Click here for detailed instructions on how to install a new power supply
Step 6. Find the hard disk
Hard discs are usually mounted in bays attached to the front of the casing. The hard disk is connected to the motherboard via a SATA cable (older computers used a wide, flat IDE cable). Hard disks are also connected to the power supply with a SATA connector (old disks used a Molex connector).
Click here for detailed instructions on how to install a new hard drive
Step 7. Identify the optical drive
most optical drives can be found directly on top of the hard drive. It's larger than a regular hard drive, and pokes out through the front of the case so it's accessible. Just like hard drives, all modern optical drives use SATA connectors.
Click here for detailed instructions on how to install a DVD drive
Step 8. Get to know the fan
Most computers have multiple fans installed. There may be one or more fans on the shroud, as well as fans on the processor. The fan is connected to the motherboard, and may also be connected to the power supply.
Look for the Wikihow article for detailed instructions on installing a new computer fan
Part 3 of 3: Unlocking Laptop
Step 1. Collect all the tools
The screws on laptops are much smaller than desktop computers, and thus you will need a small Phillips screwdriver. The most common screwdrivers needed for a laptop are #0 Phillips.
If you are going to clean the inside of the laptop, use a can compressed air.
Step 2. Turn off the laptop
Use the Shutdown function to turn off the laptop.
Step 3. Unplug any attached cables
This includes power adapters, all USB devices, headphones and other devices as well.
Step 4. Turn the laptop upside down on the work surface
You will see one or more removable panels. Laptops offer much less component access than desktops. This is because most laptop hardware cannot be replaced without extensive soldering.
Step 5. Remove the battery
This is to prevent the laptop from accidentally turning on while you are working.
Step 6. Remove the screws on the panel you want to unscrew
There may be one or more panels to access replaceable parts. Most laptops allow you to access both the hard disk and RAM.
- Click here for detailed instructions on how to install a new laptop RAM.
- Click here for detailed instructions on installing a new laptop hard drive.
