NET 123 - Computer Hardware Basics

Credits: 4
Lecture Hours: 2
Lab Hours: 4
Practicum Hours: 0
Work Experience: 0
Course Type: Voc/Tech

This course follows the recommendations of CompTIA on the subject and materials to assist the student in learning about computer hardware and functions needed to pass the A Plus exam. A detailed study and hands-on lab component give the student the opportunity to install and troubleshoot computer hardware. It is recommended that the student have a basic understanding of computers, their use and operation.
Competencies

Identify the basic components of a computer
1. List the various connectors on a computer
2. Recognize the most common devise inside a computer.
3. Show how to set jumpers and switches.
Discuss the features of microprocessors
1. Describe buses and their functions
2. Understand clock speed
3. Contrast RAM, CPU and RAM caching
4. Install a processor
5. Identify processor types
Describe RAM function and features
1. Identify the types and configuration of a RAM
2. Show how to properly install RAM
3. Discuss RAM access speeds
Differentiate motherboards and BIOS
1. Describe the functions of BIOS
2. Configure CMOS settings
3. Identify different motherboard form factors
Understand the operation of an external data bus
1. Discuss how IROs work
2. Describe how DMAs work
3. List the different types of expansion buses
4. Describe how COM and LPT ports work
Describe the standards of PC compatible power supplies
1. Understand the safety concerns on working with power supplies
2. Inspect the different power supply connectors and their function
3. Identify the concern over electro-static discharge
4. Discuss the need for surge suppressors
Discuss the function of a floppy drive
1. Understand the different types of floppy drives
2. Install and maintain a floppy drive
Explain the feature and use of hard drives
1. Understand the concept of geometry
2. Identify the various types of hard drives
3. Learn how to install a hard drive
4. Discuss partitioning and formatting
Discover the basics of SCSI
1. Describe what SCSI chains and IDs are
2. Discuss the different types of SCSI
Describe CD and DVD media
1. Learn about the different types of CD media
2. Learn about the different types of DVD media
3. Install a CD drive
4. Install a DVD drive
Discuss the different components that make sound work in a computer
1. Identify the different types of sounds
2. Install sound cards
3. Fix common sound card problems
Explain the function of a video card
1. Describe the components that make the video work.
2. Learn about refresh rates
3. Discuss video resolution
4. Contrast between CRT and LCD
Understand the functions of modems and UARTS
1. Discuss the difference between analog and serial communication
2. Describe synchronous and asynchronous communication
3. Identify different speed, error correction and data compression features
Discuss the issues that differentiate portable PCs from desktops
1. Describe the different battery types used in protables
2. Explain power management
Identify the different types of printers in use today
1. Examine the operation of a laser printer
2. Perform basic printer repair
3. Describe how a inkjet printer works