Students in the Computer Maintenance and Repair certificate receive training in administrating, installing and configuring computers; installing, implementing and utilizing software; and upgrading and troubleshooting personal computer hardware. This program provides training in personal computer (PC) maintenance and repair, operating systems, including Windows and DOS, and help desk etiquette.
This program is designed to prepare the students for certification. A successful graduate will be prepared to work in the fields of PC maintenance and repair, help desk and software support.
Rationale
This course covers both hardware and software, providing students with the skills and knowledge to build, repair and upgrade computer systems. It also provides a useful introduction to networks and network security.
Objectives
By covering the course in Computer Systems Maintenance, the student will be able to effective carry out Personal Computer hardware and software installation, configuration and upgrading, diagnosis and troubleshooting, preventative maintenance, safety and environmental issues, and basic networking.
Computer Maintenance & Repair equips participants with practical “Hands-on” skills relevant to the workplace and the theory required for certification. On successful completion of the course, participants will have the skills and knowledge to:
- Demonstrate a practical understanding of basic PC systems
- Install and commission a working stand-alone PC
- Demonstrate a practical understanding of data storage devices
- Demonstrate a practical understanding of current printers
Course Content
- Components of a computer: – microprocessor, memory, video slot/card, sound card, I/O card, FDD and CD controllers, serial and parallel interfaces, expansion modules.
- Microprocessor: – Specifications, speed, data and address bus widths
- Memory: – RAM, ROM, cache, floppy and hard disk, CD and DVD ROM, USB. Maintenance, testing and cleaning drives.
- I/O: – Serial and parallel, RS232, RS423, Centronics, serial and parallel cables and connector testing for use in current PC systems
- Monitors and Displays: – Definitions, types, uses and applications.
- Printers: – types, applications and specifications. Principles of operation of inkjet and laser printers, paper handling, printer cables and connections.
- Power supplies. Ratings: – Voltage, current and power requirements, DC and AC. The energy saving function, block diagram, typical faults, software setup and menu-driven adjustments.
- Electro-Static Discharge (ESD) and Safety Precautions.
- The WEEE directive, correct disposal of PC and printer waste.
- Installing and commissioning functioning systems.
- Fault Diagnosis: – PC boot-up sequence, Power On Self Test (POST), virus checking and clearing, Software diagnostics and flowcharts. Component and module substitution and testing techniques.
