Specification of Materials
& Components

Applying Quality Standards (LO 1.2)

Identify

Describe

Check

Lesson Objectives

At the end of this lesson, learners should be able to:

1 Identify different materials used in computer systems servicing.
2 Describe the basic specifications and uses of wires, cables, and electrical tape.
3 Check received materials against workplace standards and specifications.

A. Wires

Single conductors for internal power and signal connections.

• Material: Copper / Aluminum
• Insulation: Rubber / Plastic
• Rating: AWG (Gauge)

Figure 1: AWG Specifications

B. Network (LAN) Cables

CAT	SPEED / USE
Cat5e	1 Gbps (Standard)
Cat6	10 Gbps (Modern)
Cat8	40 Gbps (Server)

C. Display / Video Cables

Main Comparison View

D. Electrical Tape

Insulating material to protect exposed wires and prevent shorts.

• Standard: UL Listed / Flame Retardant
• Use: Insulate wire joints & splices
• Quality: High adhesive, no cracks

Figure 2: Insulation Standards

E. Electronic Components (1/2)

“Found on the Motherboard and Power Supply Unit.”

Resistor

Limits or regulates the flow of electrical current in a circuit.

Capacitor

Stores and releases electrical energy; filters voltage spikes.

IC Chip

A complex set of microscopic circuits on a small silicon chip.

E. Electronic Components (2/2)

“Found on the Motherboard and Power Supply Unit.”

Diode

Allows current to flow in only one direction (one-way valve).

Transistor

Acts as an amplifier or switch. The building block of CPUs.

LO 1.2: Quality Checklist

1. VISUAL

Search for bent pins, burnt marks, or insulation nicks.

2. SPEC

Verify labels: Cat6, AWG, or UL Rating must match J.O.

3. TEST

Perform continuity tests or use a LAN Tester before install.

Multiple Choice Quiz

Write the letter of the correct answer on your paper.

1. Which cable supports both Digital Video + Audio?

A. VGA

B. HDMI

C. DVI

D. Coaxial

2. What does AWG stand for?

A. American Wire Gauge

B. Auto Wire Grade

C. Aluminum Wire Guide

3. What is the standard color for a VGA connector?

A. White

B. Red

C. Blue

D. Black

4. Which LAN cable is standard for 1 Gbps?

A. Cat3

B. Cat5e

C. Cat8

D. Coaxial

5. High-quality electrical tape must be:

A. Transparent

B. Wet

C. Flame Retardant

D. Double-sided

6. Which interface is best for high-refresh PC Gaming?