Introduction to Computer Hardware and GSM Repair – JSS1 Computer Hardware & GSM Repair Lesson Note (First Term)

Computer hardware is the physical parts of a computer system that you can see and touch, and GSM repair is the skill of fixing faulty mobile phones.

Behavioural objectives

1. Define computer hardware and give four examples.
2. State what GSM stands for and explain GSM repair.
3. Name the four groups of computer hardware with one example each.
4. List common phone faults and the tools used to repair them.
5. State the importance of hardware and GSM repair skills.
6. Name five careers linked to computer hardware and GSM repair.

What is computer hardware?

Computer hardware is the physical parts of a computer system that you can see, touch and feel.

• The monitor: the screen where you see pictures and text.
• The keyboard: used for typing instructions.
• The mouse: used for clicking and selecting items.
• The system unit: the box that houses the “brain” (the CPU) of the computer.

What are the groups of computer hardware?

There are four groups of computer hardware: input devices, processing devices, output devices and storage devices.

What is the difference between hardware and software?

Hardware is the physical part of a computer, while software is the set of programs that tells the hardware what to do.

• Hardware: can be touched, for example a keyboard or a monitor.
• Software: cannot be touched, for example a game or a word processing program.

What is GSM repair?

GSM stands for Global System for Mobile Communications, the system that mobile phones use to make calls and send messages.

• GSM repair: the process of fixing mobile phones that are broken or not working properly.
• Who does it: a GSM engineer or phone repairer.

What are common phone faults and their repairs?

Most phone faults come from a damaged part, and the repair is to fix or replace that part.

What tools are used in hardware and GSM repair?

Repairers use small hand tools to open devices and handle tiny parts safely.

• Screwdriver set: small screwdrivers for opening phones and computer cases.
• Tweezers: hold and place very small parts.
• Multimeter: measures electrical values such as voltage.
• Soldering iron: joins or removes parts on a circuit board.
• Anti-static wrist strap: protects parts from static electricity.

What safety rules should a repairer follow?

Safety rules protect the repairer and the device.

1. Switch off the device and remove the battery or unplug it before opening it.
2. Work on a clean, dry and well-lit table.
3. Use the correct tool for each job.
4. Handle small parts gently so they do not break.
5. Keep liquids away from the work area.
6. Be careful with a hot soldering iron.

Why are computer hardware and GSM repairs important?

These skills help devices last longer, save money and keep people connected.

• Longevity: maintaining hardware helps gadgets last longer. A phone with a cracked screen can be fixed instead of thrown away.
• Cost saving: it is cheaper to repair a device than to buy a new one.
• Communication: phones and computers keep us in touch with family and friends. Repairers help us get back in touch when they break.
• Business growth: almost every business uses hardware. Keeping the machines running keeps work going.

What careers are linked to computer hardware and GSM repair?

If you enjoy working with your hands and solving problems, this field has many jobs.

Evaluation

1. Define computer hardware.
2. Name the four groups of computer hardware and give one example of each.
3. What does GSM stand for?
4. State two common phone faults and how each can be repaired.
5. List three reasons why GSM repair skills are important.

Assignment

Look at the devices in your home this evening. Identify three hardware parts on a phone or computer, and state whether each is an input, output, processing or storage device.