Computer Hardware:
• Tools, Static & Cleaning
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Common PC Problems:
• Slow Computer
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Miscellaneous:
• Windows Shortcuts
• Glossary of Terms
• HTML Colour Picker
• Number Base Converter
• Tools, Static & Cleaning
• Form Factor
• PC Case & Fans
• Motherboard
• Processor (CPU)
• Power Supply Unit
• RAM
• Hard Drive
• Solid State Drive
• Optical Drive
• Floppy Disk Drive
• Graphics Card
• Sound Card
• Network Card
• Computer Monitor
• Keyboard & Mouse
• Laptop / Netbook
• Building a Computer
• Overclocking
Operating System & Backup:
• Operating System
• Drivers
• Windows Tools
• User Accounts
• Backup
• Windows 10
Internet & Network:
• Internet
• Wi-fi or Cable
• Improve Broadband Speed
• Network Computers
Computer Peripherals:
• Printer
• Scanner
• External Hard Drive
• USB Flash Drive
Computer Security:
• Anti-virus
• Anti-Spyware
• Phishing
• Firewall
Common PC Problems:
• Slow Computer
• Hardware Failure
• Software Failure
• Printing Problems
Miscellaneous:
• Windows Shortcuts
• Glossary of Terms
• HTML Colour Picker
• Number Base Converter
Most new motherboards already have a built-in network interface but if your motherboard does not then you can add a Network Interface card (NIC) to a PCI or PCIe x1 expansion port.
A Network Interface is required so that the computer can connect to a network such as a hub/switch or to a broadband router to access the internet.
Network Interface Card - PCI
The card includes an RJ-45 Ethernet Port and usually a couple of LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) which confirm that the network is active.
The maximum data transfer rate is typically 10 Mb/s (megabits per second), 100 Mb/s, or 1000Mb/s. Older cards ony supported 10 Mb/s or 100 Mb/s and this is usually specified as 10/100 but newer cards support 10 Mb/s, 100 Mb/s, and 1000 Mb/s and are specified as 10/100/1000. Sometimes a Network Interface Card is specified as a Gigabit card which is the same as 1000 Mb/s.
Installing a Network Interface Card:
1. Back-up all of your important files.
2. Make sure the power is unplugged and press the power button to drain any power from the computer.
3. Follow anti-static procedures, and have your tools at hand. Open the computer case.
4. Be careful when handling the new Network Interface card and don't touch any contacts. If this is a new computer case then you will need to remove the blanking plate that corresponds to the PCI or PCIe x1 slot.
5. Align the new Network Interface Card with the PCI or PCIe x1 slot so that the RJ-45 port is towards the rear of the computer case and gently push it into the slot. Secure the card into position with a screw if your case supports this.
6. Close the computer case and connect mouse, keyboard, monitor, and power lead. Connect a network cable from your Network Interface Card to your broadband router or network.
7. Boot the computer and the Network Interface Card should be detected automatically. Look in the Device Manager to make sure that your card has been detected properly.
If the Network Interface Card is working correctly and data is being transmitted then the LEDs should be flashing on and off at the back of the card.