Understanding the Personal Computer
• Terminology
• Evolution of Software
• Installing a New Computer
• Hardware Components
• Function of the CPU
• Memory, Input, Output, and Storage Devices
• Operating Systems
• Internet and Online Services
• Troubleshooting PC Problems and Errors
An Introduction to Upgrading and Repairing PCs
• PC Components, Features, and System Design
• Microprocessor Types and Specifications
• Microprocessors from 1971 to the Present
• Processor Specifications, Features, Manufacturing, Socket and Slot
Types
• CPU Operating Voltages
• Overclocking and Cooling
• Math Coprocessors (Floating-point Units)
• Processor Generations and Multicore Processors
• Processor Upgrades and Troubleshooting Techniques
• Motherboards, Chipsets, and Buses
• System Bus Types, Functions, and Features
• System Resources
• Resolving Resource Conflicts
• Motherboard Selection Criteria
BIOS and Memory
• BIOS Hardware/Software
• Motherboard ROM BIOS
• Upgrading the BIOS
• Preboot Environment
• BIOS/MBR Error Messages
• SDRAM, RDRAM, and other types of Memory
• Memory Banks and Memory Module Speed
• Parity Checking and Error-correcting Code (ECC)
• Installing RAM Upgrades, DIMM, RIMM, and SIMM Modules
• Troubleshooting Memory
• Memory Defect Isolation Procedures
• The System Logical Memory Layout
Hard Disk Drives, Flash and Optical Storage
• The ATA/IDE Interface
• Magnetic Storage Principles
• Hard Disk Storage
• Hard Disk Drive Operation
• Hard Disk Drive Components and Features
• Flash Memory Devices
• Floppy Disk Drives and Tape Drives
• Optical Storage
• CDs, DVDs, HD-DVDs
• Optical Drive Performance Specifications
• How to Reliably Record Optical Discs
• Troubleshooting Optical Drives
Video and Audio
• Display Adapters and Monitors
• Video Display Adapters
• Video Display Interfaces
• 3D Graphics Accelerators
• Using Multiple Monitors
• Video Troubleshooting and Maintenance
• Audio Hardware Concepts and Terms
• Early PC Sound Cards
• Audio Hardware Features
• Motherboard Chipsets with Integrated Audio
• Troubleshooting PC Audio Problems
• Speakers and Microphones
• External I/O Interfaces
Internet and Networking
• Input Devices
• Internet Connectivity
• Securing and Sharing Your Internet Connection
• Local Area Networking
• Network Protocols
• Power Supplies, Troubleshooting, and Repair
• Building or Upgrading Systems
• PC Diagnostics, Testing, and Maintenance
This educational program is an introductory course designed to help students gain knowledge necessary for the vocational application of this subject. Completion of this program does not fulfill the legal requirements of particular state licenses or certifications, which may require additional training or apprenticeships.
We take great pride in providing you with the most up-to-date textbooks and equipment. One or more of the above-mentioned subjects may, therefore, change if updating becomes necessary during the course of your studies. The order in which the course material is presented may vary.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2021 Edition
