Computer and GSM Accessories SS1 Computer Hardware & GSM Repair Lesson Note

This lesson is about the “extras.” While the computer or phone is the main body, the accessories are the tools that help it work better, sound louder, or last longer. As a technician, selling and replacing accessories is often how you will make your quickest profit!

Power Accessories (The Life-Givers)

Accessories that handle power are the most important because a bad one can ruin your device.

• Charging Bricks (Adapters): These convert high voltage from the wall to low voltage for the phone.
  1. Identification: Look for the “Output” label (e.g., 5V, 2A).
  2. Function: To “feed” the battery.
• Power Banks: Portable batteries.
  1. Function: To charge your phone when you are traveling or during a blackout.
• Cables: The bridge between the power and the phone.
  1. Replacement Tip: If a cable is frayed (wires showing), throw it away. Using a “patched” cable can cause a fire or fry the phone’s charging chip.

Audio Accessories (The Voice & Ears)

We use these to hear music or talk privately.

• Wired Earphones: These plug into the 3.5mm jack.
  1. Common Fault: One side stops working because the internal wire is snapped.
• Bluetooth Headsets: Wireless “pods” that connect via radio waves.
  1. Maintenance: Always keep the charging case clean. If the “pins” inside the case are dirty, the pods won’t charge.
• External Speakers: Used to boost the volume of a laptop or phone.
  1. Identification: Usually connects via Bluetooth or an “Aux” cable.

Storage and Data Accessories

When your phone or computer says “Memory Full,” these are the accessories you need.

• Memory Cards (MicroSD): Tiny chips that slide into a phone.
  1. Function: To store more photos and videos.
• Flash Drives (Thumb Drives): Used mainly with computers.
  1. Replacement: If a computer says “USB Device Not Recognized,” the metal tip might be bent or the internal chip is corrupted.
• OTG (On-The-Go) Adapters: A small plug that lets you connect a computer mouse or a flash drive directly to your Android phone.

Protection Accessories (The Armor)

These don’t have electricity, but they save you from expensive repairs.

• Screen Protectors: A layer of tempered glass.
  1. Replacement: If it is cracked, peel it off and put a new one. It is better for the protector to crack than for the actual screen to break!
• Pouch/Cases: Silicon or plastic covers.
  1. Function: To absorb the “shock” when the phone falls.
• Laptop Bags: Padded bags for carrying computers.
  1. Function: To prevent the laptop screen from being crushed inside a regular backpack.

How to Identify “Fake” vs. “Original”

As a technician, people will ask you: “Is this charger original?” You must know how to tell.

1. Weight: Original chargers and batteries are usually heavier because they have better safety components inside. Fake ones feel “hollow” and light.
2. Printing: Look at the text on the accessory. On fake ones, the spellings are often wrong (e.g., “Samsvng” instead of “Samsung”) or the ink is blurry.
3. Heat: If a charger gets very hot (too hot to touch) after just 10 minutes, it is a dangerous fake.
4. Fit: An original cable should “click” into the phone firmly. If it is wobbly or feels loose, it is a poor-quality accessory.

Summary Table

Class Activity

1. Look at your own phone charger. Find the “Output” section and read the numbers aloud.
2. Pass around a “Fake” and an “Original” USB cable. Can you feel the difference in the thickness of the rubber?