A+ Core Hardware

Course Objectives

To prepare candidates for the Computing Technology Industry Association, (Comp TIA), A+ Core Hardware Examination. The A+ Certification program is industry-wide, developed and sponsored by Comp TIA, which is widely becoming recognised as a key qualification for IT support staff.
To qualify for A+ Service Technician status, it is necessary to pass both the above examination and the A+ Operating Systems Technologies.

Course Prerequisites

Delegates should be generally familiar with using PCs, including keyboard and mouse skills, but are not required to have prior experience in computer maintenance. A keen interest in computing and access to their own PC is also a benefit.

Course Duration 

5 Days plus Exam (½ Day)

Course Content

PC Functions and Components
This is an introduction to the components of a PC including all I/O ports and their functions.

BIOS
The function of BIOS and CMOS upgrading and the setup programme are covered.

System Resources
IRQ, DMA, Memory address, resolving conflicts, Plug and Play and Driver software.

Cleaning and Preventative maintenance
Correct cleaning procedures, disposal of environmentally sensitive equipment and working with high voltage equipment.

ESD and Field Replaceable units
Working with static electricity, replacing parts, and portable replaceable units

IDE and SCSI
Installing and formatting IDE drives, installing and configuring SCSI interfaces.

Peripheral Devices
Install peripherals e.g. Video cards, Modems also UART Chips.

Troubleshooting
The boot process, techniques, POSY and optimising a PC.

Processors
Types, Sockets and Architecture.

Memory
Types, Speed and usage.

Motherboard Architecture
Types, Form factor and Bus architecture.

Printers

Types, technologies, connections and troubleshooting.

Portables

Differences, power and PDA’s

Network

NIC’s, install and configuring, cable types and usage, 802 standards and topography.

Customer service
Techniques and handling complaints.