INDUSTRIAL VISIT AT VSSE - ISRO AHMEDABAD

 

Experiment- 39 :- Benchmarking Your PC - Testing Computer Performance

AIM: Benchmarking Your PC - Testing Computer Performance

Objective:

To measure and assess the performance of your computer by running tests on various components (CPU, GPU, RAM, Storage) and using benchmarking tools.

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Materials:

1. Computer (Windows or macOS)
2. Benchmarking Software (free or paid)
   • CPU: Cinebench, Geekbench, or Prime95
   • GPU: 3DMark, Unigine Heaven, or FurMark
   • Memory (RAM): AIDA64, PassMark PerformanceTest, or MemTest86
   • Storage: CrystalDiskMark, AS SSD Benchmark, or HD Tune
3. Stress Testing Tools (optional): Prime95, FurMark
4. System Monitoring Tools (optional): HWMonitor, MSI Afterburner, CPU-Z

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Procedure:

Step 1: Preparing the System

1. Update Drivers: Ensure that your graphics card, CPU, and motherboard drivers are up-to-date for accurate benchmarking results.
   • For Windows, you can update drivers through Device Manager or the manufacturer's software (e.g., NVIDIA GeForce Experience for GPU).
2. Close Background Applications: Close unnecessary applications running in the background to ensure the benchmarking tools have as much system resources as possible for accurate results.
3. Monitor System Temperature: Use a tool like HWMonitor to monitor temperatures during benchmarking. Overheating can cause throttling and skew results.

Step 2: CPU Benchmarking

1. Install Cinebench R23 or Geekbench (free versions available).
2. Run a CPU Test:
   • Open Cinebench R23 or Geekbench.
   • For Cinebench, select the "Multi-Core" and "Single-Core" tests to measure CPU performance.
   • For Geekbench, click on the "Run CPU Benchmark" button.
3. Record Results: Note down the scores provided by Cinebench or Geekbench. Higher scores generally indicate better performance.
   • Multi-Core Test: Measures the CPU’s ability to handle parallel tasks (important for gaming, video editing, etc.).
   • Single-Core Test: Measures how well the CPU handles single-threaded tasks (important for tasks that don’t use multiple cores).

Step 3: GPU Benchmarking

1. Install 3DMark or Unigine Heaven.
2. Run the GPU Benchmark:
   • For 3DMark: Select the “Time Spy” or “Fire Strike” test, which are commonly used for gaming GPUs.
   • For Unigine Heaven: Run the default benchmark, choosing a preset resolution (e.g., 1080p).
3. Record Results: The benchmark will display the FPS (Frames per second), Graphics Score, and other key stats.
   • Higher FPS and graphics scores indicate a more powerful GPU.

Step 4: RAM Benchmarking

1. Install AIDA64 or PassMark PerformanceTest.
2. Run the RAM Test:
   • Open AIDA64, go to the "Cache and Memory Benchmark" section, and run the test.
   • For PassMark: Go to the "Memory" section and run the RAM benchmark.
3. Record Results: The results will include read, write, and latency speeds for your RAM. Higher read/write speeds and lower latency indicate faster RAM performance.

Step 5: Storage Benchmarking

1. Install CrystalDiskMark or AS SSD Benchmark.
2. Run the Storage Test:
   • Open CrystalDiskMark and select the target drive (e.g., your SSD or HDD).
   • Run tests for sequential read/write speeds and random 4K read/write speeds.
3. Record Results: The results will give you read and write speeds (MB/s) for your storage drive.
   • Sequential speeds measure how fast large files are read/written.
   • Random 4K speeds test the performance of small file transfers, which are important for system responsiveness.

Step 6: Stress Test (Optional but Recommended)

1. Run Prime95 (for CPU):
   • Prime95 is a popular tool for stress testing your CPU.
   • Run the “Small FFTs” test, which stresses the CPU heavily.
   • Monitor temperatures during the test and stop after 15-20 minutes to check for stability and performance.
2. Run FurMark (for GPU):
   • FurMark stresses the GPU to its limits and checks for stability and thermal behavior.
   • Run the stress test for 10-15 minutes, again monitoring the temperature and system stability.

Step 7: Monitoring Results

1. Compare Results:
   • Compare the benchmark scores for the CPU, GPU, RAM, and Storage. You can find baseline results for your components online (e.g., from other users with the same hardware).
   • Example: If your CPU's Geekbench score is significantly lower than others with the same processor, it may indicate throttling or other issues.
2. Temperature Analysis: Ensure the temperatures for CPU and GPU stay within safe limits during benchmarking (usually below 85°C under load).

Step 8: Final Assessment

1. Overall System Performance: Assess how well your PC performed in each category (CPU, GPU, RAM, storage). Is it meeting your expectations, or are there areas for improvement?
2. Upgrade Considerations: If any component’s benchmark scores are much lower than expected, consider upgrading that part of your system. For instance:
   • Low CPU performance could suggest it’s time to upgrade the processor.
   • Low GPU performance means an upgrade may be necessary for gaming or high-end graphics work.
   • Slow storage speeds (especially on HDDs) may warrant switching to an SSD.

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Expected Results:

• CPU: A higher multi-core score indicates better performance for multitasking and demanding applications (e.g., video rendering, simulation).
• GPU: Higher FPS and Graphics Score indicate better performance in gaming and graphical tasks.
• RAM: Faster read and write speeds mean smoother multitasking and responsiveness.
• Storage: Faster sequential and random read/write speeds mean quicker file access and system responsiveness.

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Conclusion:

Benchmarking your PC provides valuable insights into the performance of your system’s components. By following the above steps, you can understand the strengths and weaknesses of your PC, identify potential upgrades, and ensure your system is performing optimally. Regular benchmarking can help track performance over time and after hardware upgrades, ensuring your system continues to meet your needs.

Experiment -38 :- Computer Backup Methods and Techniques

 AIM :- Computer Backup Methods and Techniques

Objective:

To understand and apply various methods for backing up data from a computer, ensuring data safety and recoverability in case of hardware failure or accidental data loss.

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Materials:

1. Computer (Windows or macOS)
2. External Storage Device (e.g., external hard drive or USB flash drive)
3. Cloud Storage Service (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, iCloud)
4. Backup Software (e.g., Windows Backup, Time Machine for macOS, Acronis True Image, EaseUS Todo Backup)
5. Internet Connection (for cloud storage backup)
6. Test Files (a set of important documents, photos, or videos for backup)

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Procedure:

Step 1: Initial Data Assessment

1. Choose files for backup: Select a set of important files or folders that need to be backed up. This could include documents, images, videos, or application data.
2. Organize your data: It is helpful to organize the data in a way that makes it easy to back up (e.g., using folders).

Step 2: Backup Using an External Storage Device (Manual Backup)

1. Connect the external storage device (USB flash drive or external hard drive) to your computer.
2. Copy files manually:
   • Open File Explorer (Windows) or Finder (macOS).
   • Navigate to the files or folders you want to back up.
   • Copy the selected files and paste them into the external drive. Ensure that you copy, not move, the files so that they remain on your computer.
3. Safely eject the external storage device once the backup is complete.

Step 3: Automated Backup Using Backup Software

1. Install Backup Software: If you don’t already have backup software installed, download and install a program such as Acronis True Image, EaseUS Todo Backup, or any free software like Macrium Reflect or Windows built-in backup utility.

2. Set Up the Backup:

   • Open the backup software.
   • Select "Create a Backup" or "Backup Now."
   • Choose the destination for the backup, either an external hard drive, network drive, or cloud storage.
   • Select the files/folders to back up (the software will allow you to choose specific files or perform a full system backup).
   • Configure backup frequency (one-time backup or automatic, periodic backups).

3. Run the Backup:

   • Start the backup process by following the prompts in the software. This may take some time, depending on the amount of data.
   • After the backup completes, the software will usually notify you.

4. Verify the Backup:

   • After completion, open the backup location (external drive or cloud) to verify that the data is successfully copied.

Step 4: Backup Using Cloud Storage

1. Sign in to your cloud storage account (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, or iCloud).
2. Upload files to cloud:
   • Drag and drop the selected files into the cloud storage folder (or use the "Upload" button if the storage interface provides that option).
   • Alternatively, use a cloud sync client that automatically syncs designated folders to the cloud (e.g., OneDrive or Google Backup and Sync).
3. Automatic Backup Setup: Enable automatic syncing if you want files in a specific folder to be continuously backed up to the cloud. This way, any new or modified files will automatically upload to the cloud storage.

Step 5: Full System Backup (Optional, for System Image)

1. Create a System Image Backup (optional, recommended for disaster recovery):
   • On Windows, use Windows Backup:
     • Open the Control Panel > System and Security > Backup and Restore > Create a system image.
     • Follow the on-screen instructions to back up the entire system, including the operating system, programs, and all files.
   • On macOS, use Time Machine:
     • Open System Preferences > Time Machine.
     • Select a backup disk (external drive or network disk).
     • Enable Time Machine to automatically back up your entire system.

Step 6: Verification and Restoration (Test the Backup)

1. Test Restoring Files from the Backup:
   • For external drives: Disconnect the drive and attempt to open a file from the backup. Confirm that it can be opened successfully.
   • For cloud storage: Log in to your cloud account from another device or web browser and verify that the backup files are accessible and complete.
   • For system image backup: Test restoring the system image (if performed) in a safe manner to verify that it will work if the system needs to be restored from scratch.

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Expected Results:

• External Storage Backup: Data should be successfully copied to the external device. It can be accessed or restored if needed.
• Automated Backup: Backup software should automatically create a copy of selected files at the desired frequency, ensuring you have up-to-date backups.
• Cloud Storage Backup: Files should be safely uploaded to cloud storage, and you should be able to access them from any device connected to the internet.
• System Image: The entire system should be backed up, allowing you to restore the operating system and applications to a previous state in case of system failure.

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Analysis:

• Advantages of External Backup:
  • Quick and easy to set up.
  • Physical control over your data.
  • Ideal for large backups that don't require internet access.
• Advantages of Cloud Backup:
  • Offsite, protected from local disasters (fire, theft, etc.).
  • Accessible from any device with internet access.
  • Automatic syncing ensures up-to-date backup.
• System Image:
  • Useful for disaster recovery, as it can restore a system to a working state, including the OS, software, and settings.

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Conclusion:

By following this experiment, you should have successfully backed up important data from your computer using multiple methods: external drives, cloud storage, and automated software backups. The choice of backup method depends on personal needs, such as file size, accessibility, and security. Regular backups are essential to protect against data loss and ensure that your data is always recoverable in case of hardware failure or system issues.

Experiment - 37 :- System Upgrade for Performance Enhancement (Motherboard, Memory, and CPU)

 

System Upgrade for Performance Enhancement (Motherboard, Memory, and CPU)

Objective:

To evaluate the performance of a system after upgrading its motherboard, memory (RAM), and CPU. The experiment will measure the performance before and after the upgrade using benchmarking tools.

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Materials:

1. Old System Configuration:

   • Motherboard: Old model with an outdated chipset (e.g., Intel B250 or AMD A320).
   • CPU: Intel Core i5-7400 or AMD Ryzen 5 2400G (4-core processors).
   • Memory (RAM): 8 GB DDR4 (single-channel).
   • Storage: 500 GB HDD or 240 GB SSD.
   • OS: Windows 10, with standard updates.

2. Upgraded System Components:

   • Motherboard: Newer model with support for high-speed RAM and latest generation processors (e.g., Intel Z590 or AMD B550).
   • CPU: Upgraded to a more powerful processor (e.g., Intel Core i7-12700K or AMD Ryzen 9 7900X).
   • Memory (RAM): 16 GB or 32 GB DDR4 (dual-channel, higher frequency).
   • Storage: Optional, but upgrading to a larger SSD (e.g., 1 TB SSD) can further improve performance.
   • OS: Windows 11 (updated).

3. Benchmarking Software:

   • PassMark PerformanceTest
   • Cinebench R23 (for CPU performance)
   • Geekbench (for overall performance)
   • CrystalDiskMark (for storage performance)
   • MemTest86 (for memory stability testing)

4. Tools for Setup:

   • Screwdriver set for disassembling and assembling components.
   • Thermal paste (for CPU installation).
   • Anti-static wristband.

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Procedure:

1. Initial System Assessment (Before Upgrade):

• System Specifications: Record the details of the old system (Motherboard model, CPU model, Memory capacity and speed, OS version).
• Benchmarking: Run the benchmark tests (PassMark, Cinebench, Geekbench) to measure CPU, memory, disk, and overall system performance. Note down the scores.
• Temperature & Stability Check: Run a stress test (e.g., Prime95) and record CPU temperature and stability.
• Monitor Boot Time: Track the time it takes to boot the system from the moment you press the power button to the desktop.

2. System Upgrade (Motherboard, CPU, and Memory):

• Shut down the PC and disconnect all cables.
• Disassemble the old components:
  • Remove the case cover.
  • Disconnect and remove the old RAM, CPU, and motherboard.
• Install the new components:
  • Install the new CPU into the new motherboard socket.
  • Apply thermal paste to the CPU and attach the CPU cooler.
  • Install the new RAM in the correct slots (preferably in dual-channel mode).
  • Install the new motherboard into the case and connect all cables (power, storage, peripherals).
  • Install the necessary drivers for the motherboard and other components.
• Reinstall the Operating System: If necessary, clean install Windows 11 or update the existing OS to ensure compatibility with the new hardware.

3. Post-Upgrade Assessment:

• Reinstall Software & Drivers: Ensure that all necessary drivers for the motherboard, CPU, RAM, and storage are installed.
• Benchmarking: Run the same benchmarks (PassMark, Cinebench, Geekbench) and compare the results with pre-upgrade scores.
• Stress Test: Perform stability tests to check the reliability of the system after the upgrade (using Prime95, FurMark, or similar stress-testing tools). Monitor CPU and RAM temperatures.
• Monitor Boot Time: Measure how long it takes for the upgraded system to boot.

4. Performance Comparison:

• CPU Performance: Compare the performance improvements in CPU-bound tests (Cinebench R23, Geekbench).
• Memory Performance: Measure improvements in RAM performance with PassMark or a similar test, and note the difference in multitasking or responsiveness.
• System Performance: Assess the overall system performance and responsiveness in real-world tasks (e.g., web browsing, gaming, video editing, etc.).
• Disk Performance: If upgrading storage, measure the read/write speeds before and after the upgrade using CrystalDiskMark.
• Thermal & Power Consumption: Monitor the system’s power usage and temperature before and after the upgrade under load (e.g., gaming or heavy multitasking).

5. Analysis:

• Compare the pre-upgrade and post-upgrade results.
• Identify which component (CPU, RAM, or motherboard) had the most significant impact on performance.
• Discuss the improvements in CPU, memory, and overall system responsiveness.
• Analyze if the new motherboard offers additional features (e.g., PCIe 4.0 support, faster RAM speeds) that contribute to overall system performance.

Experiment:- 36 :- Rectifying Problems with Add-On Cards

 AIM :- Rectifying Problems with Add-On Cards

Objective:

To determine whether reinsertion or replacement of add-on cards resolves specific hardware issues in a computer system.

Materials Needed:

1. Computer System: A desktop or workstation with accessible add-on card slots.
2. Add-On Cards: At least one add-on card (e.g., graphics card, sound card, network card) that is suspected to be malfunctioning.
3. Replacement Card: A known working add-on card of the same type for comparison.
4. Screwdriver: For opening the computer case and securing the cards.
5. Anti-static Wrist Strap: To prevent static damage to components.
6. Compressed Air: For cleaning dust from slots and components.
7. Documentation Tools: Notebook or software for recording observations and results.

Procedure:

1. Initial Setup:

   • Ensure the computer is powered off and unplugged.
   • Ground yourself using an anti-static wrist strap or by touching a metal part of the case.

2. Identify the Problem:

   • Document the symptoms of the problem (e.g., no display output, no sound, network connectivity issues).
   • Note any error messages or unusual behavior.

3. Remove the Add-On Card:

   • Open the computer case.
   • Locate the add-on card in question.
   • Unscrew and carefully remove the card from its slot.

4. Inspect the Card and Slot:

   • Check the card for visible damage (burn marks, broken connectors).
   • Inspect the PCI/PCIe slot for dust or debris. Use compressed air to clean if necessary.

5. Reinsert the Original Card:

   • Align the card with the slot and gently push it back into place.
   • Secure it with screws.
   • Close the computer case.

6. Power On and Test:

   • Plug the computer back in and power it on.
   • Test the functionality of the card (e.g., check for display output, sound, or network connectivity).
   • Document the results.

7. Replace the Card (if necessary):

   • If the problem persists, power down the computer again.
   • Remove the original card and replace it with the known working card.
   • Secure the new card in place and close the case.

8. Power On and Test Again:

   • Power on the computer with the replacement card.
   • Test the functionality again and document the results.

9. Compare Results:

   • Compare the results from the reinsertion of the original card and the replacement with the known working card.
   • Note any differences in performance or functionality.

10. Conclusion:

    • Analyze the data collected during the experiment.
    • Determine whether the issue was resolved by reinsertion, replacement, or if further troubleshooting is needed.

Documentation:

• Record all observations, including:
  • Symptoms before and after each step.
  • Any error messages encountered.
  • The time taken for each step.
  • Overall conclusions about the effectiveness of reinsertion versus replacement.

Safety Precautions:

• Always ensure the computer is powered off and unplugged before working on it.
• Handle all components carefully to avoid damage.
• Use an anti-static wrist strap to prevent static discharge.

Expected Outcomes:

• Successful reinsertion of the original card may resolve the issue if it was due to poor contact or dust.
• Replacement with a known working card should resolve the issue if the original card is faulty.

By following this structured experiment, you can effectively determine the best approach to rectify problems related to add-on cards in a computer system.