IT Essentials PC Hardware and

IT Essentials PC Hardware and Software Course Booklet, Version 4.1 http://www.dropshippers.co.za/

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Related Titles http://www.dropshippers.co.za/

IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software Companion Guide,
Fourth Edition http://www.dropshippers.co.za/

ISBN-10: 1-58713-263-X http://www.dropshippers.co.za/

ISBN-13: 978-1-58713-263-6 http://www.dropshippers.co.za/

IT Essentials: PC Hardware and Software Lab Manual,
Fourth Edition http://www.dropshippers.co.za/

ISBN-10: 1-58713-262-1 http://www.dropshippers.co.za/

ISBN-13: 978-1-58713-262-9 http://www.dropshippers.co.za/

31 Days Before Your A+ Exams, Second Edition http://www.dropshippers.co.za/

ISBN-10: 1-58713-260-5 http://www.dropshippers.co.za/

ISBN-13: 978-1-58713-260-5 http://www.dropshippers.co.za/

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction to the Personal Computer

• Introduction
• 1.1 Explain IT industry certifications
• 1.1.1 Identify education and certification
• 1.1.2 Describe the A+ certification
• 1.1.3 Describe the EUCIP certification
• 1.2 Describe a computer system
• 1.3 Identify the names, purposes, and characteristics of cases and power supplies
• 1.3.1 Describe cases
• 1.3.2 Describe power supplies
• 1.4 Identify the names, purposes, and characteristics of internal components
• 1.4.1 Identify the names, purposes, and characteristics of motherboards 8
• 1.4.2 Identify the names, purposes, and characteristics of CPUs 8
• 1.4.3 Identify the names, purposes, and characteristics of cooling systems
• 1.4.4 Identify the names, purposes, and characteristics of ROM and RAM
• 1.4.5 Identify the names, purposes, and characteristics of adapter cards
• 1.4.6 Identify the names, purposes, and characteristics of storage drives
• 1.4.7 Identify the names, purposes, and characteristics of internal cables
• 1.5 Identify the names, purposes, and characteristics of ports and cables
• Serial Ports and Cables
• Modem Ports and Cables
• USB Ports and Cables
• FireWire Ports and Cables
• Parallel Ports and Cables
• SCSI Ports and Cables
• Network Ports and Cables
• PS/2 Ports
• Audio Ports
• Video Ports and Connectors
• 1.6 Identify the names, purposes, and characteristics of input devices
• 1.7 Identify the names, purposes, and characteristics of output devices
• Monitors and Projectors
• All-in-One Printer
• Speakers and Headphones
• 1.8 Explain system resources and their purposes
• Interrupt Requests
• Input/Output (I/O) Port Addresses
• Direct Memory Access
• Summary
• Chapter 1 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 2 Safe Lab Procedures and Tool Use

• Introduction
• 2.1 Explain the purpose of safe working conditions and procedures
• 2.1.1 Identify safety procedures and potential hazards for users and technicians
• 2.1.2 Identify safety procedures to protect equipment from damage and data from loss
• 2.1.3 Identify safety procedures to protect the environment from contamination
• 2.2 Identify tools and software used with personal computer components and their purposes
• 2.2.1 Identify hardware tools and their purpose
• 2.2.2 Identify software tools and their purpose
• 2.2.3 Identify organizational tools and their purpose
• 2.3 Implement proper tool use
• 2.3.1 Demonstrate proper use of an antistatic wrist strap
• 2.3.2 Demonstrate proper use of an antistatic mat
• 2.3.3 Demonstrate proper use of various hand tools
• 2.3.4 Demonstrate proper use of cleaning materials
• Summary
• Chapter 2 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 3 Computer Assembly - Step by Step

• Introduction
• 3.1 Open the case
• 3.2 Install the power supply
• 3.3 Attach the components to the motherboard and install the motherboard
• 3.3.1 Install a CPU and a heat sink/fan assembly
• 3.3.2 Install the RAM
• 3.3.3 Install the motherboard
• 3.4 Install internal drives
• 3.5 Install drives in external bays
• 3.5.1 Install the optical drive
• 3.5.2 Install the floppy drive
• 3.6 Install adapter cards
• 3.6.1 Install the NIC
• 3.6.2 Install the wireless NIC
• 3.6.3 Install the video adapter card
• 3.7 Connect all internal cables
• 3.7.1 Connect the power cables
• 3.7.2 Connect the data cables
• 3.8 Re-attach the side panels and connect external cables to the computer
• 3.8.1 Re-attach the side panels to the case
• 3.8.2 Connect external cables to the computer
• 3.9 Boot the computer for the first time
• 3.9.1 Identify beep codes
• 3.9.2 Describe BIOS setup
• Summary
• Chapter 3 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 4 Basics of Preventive Maintenance and Troubleshooting

• Introduction
• 4.1 Explain the purpose of preventive maintenance
• Hardware
• Software
• Benefits
• 4.2 Identify the steps of the troubleshooting process
• 4.2.1 Explain the purpose of data protection
• 4.2.2 Identify the problem
• 4.2.3 Establish a theory of probable causes
• 4.2.4 Determine an exact cause
• 4.2.5 Implement the solution
• 4.2.6 Verify solution and full system functionality
• 4.2.7 Document findings
• Summary
• Chapter 4 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 5 Fundamental Operating Systems

• Introduction
• 5.1 Explain the purpose of an operating system
• 5.1.1 Describe characteristics of modern operating systems
• 5.1.2 Explain operating system concepts
• 5.2 Describe and compare operating systems to include purpose, limitations, and compatibilities
• 5.2.1 Describe desktop operating systems
• 5.2.2 Describe network operating systems
• 5.3 Determine operating system based on customer needs
• 5.3.1 Identify applications and environments that are compatible with an operating system
• 5.3.2 Determine minimum hardware requirements and compatibility with the OS platform
• 5.4 Install an operating system
• 5.4.1 Identify hard drive setup procedures
• 5.4.2 Prepare hard drive
• 5.4.3 Install the operating system using default settings
• 5.4.4 Create accounts
• 5.4.5 Complete the installation
• 5.4.6 Describe custom installation options
• 5.4.7 Identify the boot sequence files and Registry files
• 5.4.8 Describe how to manipulate operating system files
• 5.4.9 Describe directory structures
• 5.5 Navigate a GUI (Windows)
• 5.5.1 Manipulate items on the desktop
• 5.5.2 Explore Control Panel applets
• 5.5.3 Explore administrative tools
• 5.5.4 Install, navigate, and uninstall an application
• 5.5.5 Describe upgrading an operating system
• 5.6 Identify and apply common preventive maintenance techniques for operating systems
• 5.6.1 Create a preventive maintenance plan
• 5.6.2 Schedule a task
• 5.6.3 Back up the hard drive
• 5.7 Troubleshoot operating systems
• 5.7.1 Review the troubleshooting process
• 5.7.2 Identify common problems and solutions
• Summary
• Chapter 5 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 6 Fundamental Laptops and Portable Devices

• Introduction
• 6.1 Describe laptops and other portable devices
• Laptops
• PDAs and Smartphones
• 6.1.1 Identify some common uses of laptops
• 6.1.2 Identify some common uses of PDAs and smartphones
• 6.2 Identify and describe the components of a laptop
• 6.2.1 Describe the components found on the outside of the laptop
• 6.2.2 Describe the components found on the inside of the laptop
• 6.2.3 Describe the components found on the laptop docking station
• 6.3 Compare and contrast desktop and laptop components
• 6.3.1 Compare and contrast desktop and laptop motherboards
• 6.3.2 Compare and contrast desktop and laptop processors
• 6.3.3 Compare and contrast desktop and laptop power management
• 6.3.4 Compare and contrast desktop and laptop expansion capabilities
• 6.4 Explain how to configure laptops
• 6.4.1 Describe how to configure power settings
• 6.4.2 Describe the safe installation and removal of laptop components
• 6.4.3 Laptop communication hardware installation and configuration
• 6.5 Compare the different mobile phone standards
• 6.6 Identify common preventive maintenance techniques for laptops and portable devices
• 6.6.1 Identify appropriate cleaning procedures
• 6.6.2 Identify optimal operating environments
• 6.7 Describe how to troubleshoot laptops and portable devices
• 6.7.1 Review the troubleshooting process
• 6.7.2 Identify common problems and solutions
• Summary
• Chapter 6 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 7 Fundamental Printers and Scanners

• Introduction
• 7.1 Describe the types of printers currently available
• 7.1.1 Describe characteristics and capabilities of printers
• 7.1.2 Describe printer to computer interfaces
• 7.1.3 Describe laser printers
• 7.1.4 Describe impact printers
• 7.1.5 Describe inkjet printers
• 7.1.6 Describe solid-ink printers
• 7.1.7 Describe other printer types
• 7.2 Describe the installation and configuration process for printers
• 7.2.1 Describe how to set up a printer
• 7.2.2 Explain how to power and connect the device using a local or network port
• 7.2.3 Describe how to install and update the device driver, firmware, and RAM
• 7.2.4 Identify configuration options and default settings
• 7.2.5 Describe how to optimize printer performance
• 7.2.6 Describe how to print a test page
• 7.2.7 Describe how to share a printer
• 7.3 Describe the types of scanners currently available
• 7.3.1 Describe scanner types, resolution, and interfaces
• 7.3.2 Describe all-in-one devices
• 7.3.3 Describe flatbed scanners
• 7.3.4 Describe handheld scanners
• 7.3.5 Describe drum scanners
• 7.4 Describe the installation and configuration process for scanners
• 7.4.1 Explain how to power and connect a scanner
• 7.4.2 Describe how to install and update the device driver
• 7.4.3 Identify configuration options and default settings
• 7.5 Identify and apply common preventive maintenance techniques for printers and scanners
• 7.5.1 Describe printer maintenance
• 7.5.2 Describe scanner maintenance
• 7.6 Troubleshoot printers and scanners
• 7.6.1 Review the troubleshooting process
• 7.6.2 Identify common problems and solutions
• Summary
• Chapter 7 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 8 Fundamental Networks

• Introduction
• 8.1 Explain the principles of networking
• 8.1.1 Define computer networks
• 8.1.2 Explain the benefits of networking
• 8.2 Describe types of networks
• 8.2.1 Describe a LAN
• 8.2.2 Describe a WAN
• 8.2.3 Describe a WLAN
• 8.2.4 Explain peer-to-peer networks
• 8.2.5 Explain client/server networks
• 8.3 Describe basic networking concepts and technologies
• 8.3.1 Explain bandwidth and data transmission
• 8.3.2 Describe IP addressing
• 8.3.3 Define DHCP
• 8.3.4 Describe Internet protocols and applications
• 8.3.5 Define ICMP
• 8.4 Describe the physical components of a network
• 8.4.1 Identify names, purposes, and characteristics of network devices
• 8.4.2 Identify names, purposes, and characteristics of common network cables
• 8.5 Describe LAN topologies and architectures
• 8.5.1 Describe LAN topologies
• 8.5.2 Describe LAN architectures
• 8.6 Identify standards organizations
• 8.7 Identify Ethernet standards
• 8.7.1 Explain cabled Ethernet standards
• 8.7.2 Explain wireless Ethernet standards
• 8.8 Explain OSI and TCP/IP data models
• 8.8.1 Define the TCP/IP model
• 8.8.2 Define the OSI model
• 8.8.3 Compare OSI and TCP/IP
• 8.9 Describe how to configure a NIC and a modem
• 8.9.1 Install or update a NIC driver
• 8.9.2 Attach computer to existing network
• 8.9.3 Describe the installation of a modem
• 8.10 Identify names, purposes, and characteristics of other technologies used to establish connectivity
• 8.10.1 Describe telephone technologies
• 8.10.2 Define power line communication
• 8.10.3 Define broadband
• 8.10.4 Define VoIP
• 8.10.5 Define VPN
• 8.11 Identify and apply common preventive maintenance techniques used for networks
• Counterfeiting and the IT Industry
• 8.12 Troubleshoot a network
• 8.12.1 Review the troubleshooting process
• 8.12.2 Identify common network problems and solutions
• Summary
• Chapter 8 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 9 Fundamental Security

• Introduction
• 9.1 Explain why security is important
• 9.2 Describe security threats
• 9.2.1 Define viruses, worms, and Trojans
• 9.2.2 Explain web security
• 9.2.3 Define adware, spyware, and grayware
• 9.2.4 Explain Denial of Service
• 9.2.5 Describe spam and popup windows
• 9.2.6 Explain social engineering
• 9.2.7 Explain TCP/IP attacks
• 9.2.8 Explain data wiping, hard drive destruction and recyling
• 9.3 Identify security procedures
• 9.3.1 Explain what is required in a basic local security policy
• 9.3.2 Explain the tasks required to protect physical equipment
• 9.3.3 Describe ways to protect data
• 9.3.4 Describe wireless security techniques
• 9.4 Identify common preventive maintenance techniques for security
• 9.4.1 Explain how to update signature files for anti-virus and anti-spyware software
• 9.4.2 Explain how to install operating system service packs and security patches
• 9.5 Troubleshoot security
• 9.5.1 Review the troubleshooting process
• 9.5.2 Identify common problems and solutions
• Summary
• Chapter 9 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 10 Communication Skills

• Introduction
• 10.1 Explain the relationship between communication and troubleshooting
• 10.2 Describe good communication skills and professional behavior
• 10.2.1 Determine the computer problem of the customer
• 10.2.2 Display professional behavior with the customer
• 10.2.3 Focus the customer on the problem during the call
• 10.2.4 Use proper netiquette
• 10.2.5 Implement time and stress management techniques
• 10.2.6 Observe Service Level Agreements
• 10.2.7 Follow business policies
• 10.3 Explain ethics and legal aspects of working with computer technology
• Ethical Customs
• Legal Rules
• 10.4 Describe call center environment and technician responsibilities
• 10.4.1 Describe the call center environment
• 10.4.2 Describe level-one technician responsibilities
• 10.4.3 Describe level-two technician responsibilities
• Summary
• Chapter 10 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 11 Advanced Personal Computers

• Introduction
• 11.1 Give an overview of field, remote, and bench technician jobs
• 11.2 Explain safe lab procedures and tool use
• 11.2.1 Review safe working environments and procedures
• 11.2.2 Review names, purposes, characteristics, and safe and appropriate use of tools
• 11.2.3 Identify potential safety hazards and implement proper safety procedures for computer components
• 11.2.4 Describe environmental issues
• 11.3 Describe situations requiring replacement of computer components
• 11.3.1 Select a case and power supply
• 11.3.2 Select a motherboard
• 11.3.3 Select the CPU and heat sink/fan assembly
• 11.3.4 Select RAM
• 11.3.5 Select adapter cards
• 11.3.6 Select storage devices and hard drives
• 11.3.7 Select input and output devices
• 11.4 Upgrade and configure personal computer components and peripherals
• 11.4.1 Upgrade and configure a motherboard
• 11.4.2 Upgrade and configure a CPU and a heat sink/fan assembly
• 11.4.3 Upgrade and configure RAM
• 11.4.4 Upgrade and configure BIOS
• 11.4.5 Upgrade and configure storage devices and hard drives
• 11.4.6 Upgrade and configure input and output devices
• 11.5 Identify and apply common preventive maintenance techniques for personal computer components
• 11.5.1 Clean internal components
• 11.5.2 Clean the case
• 11.5.3 Inspect computer components
• 11.6 Troubleshoot computer components and peripherals
• 11.6.1 Review the troubleshooting process
• 11.6.2 Identify common problems and solutions
• 11.6.3 Apply troubleshooting skills
• Summary
• Chapter 11 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 12 Advanced Operating Systems

• Introduction
• 12.1 Select the appropriate operating system based on customer needs
• 12.1.1 Describe operating systems
• 12.1.2 Describe network operating systems
• 12.1.3 Windows OS directory structures
• 12.2 Install, configure, and optimize an operating system
• 12.2.1 Compare and contrast a default installation and a custom installation
• 12.2.2 Install Windows XP using a custom installation
• 12.2.3 Create, view, and manage disks, directories, and files
• 12.2.4 Identify procedures and utilities used to optimize the performance of operating systems
• 12.2.5 Identify procedures and utilities used to optimize the performance of browsers
• 12.2.6 Describe installation, use, and configuration of e-mail software
• 12.2.7 Set screen resolution and update video driver
• 12.2.8 Describe installation of a second operating system
• 12.2.9 Windows CLI commands
• 12.3 Describe how to upgrade operating systems
• 12.4 Describe preventive maintenance procedures for operating systems
• 12.4.1 Schedule automatic tasks and updates
• 12.4.2 Set restore points
• 12.5 Troubleshoot operating systems
• 12.5.1 Review the troubleshooting process
• 12.5.2 Identify common problems and solutions
• 12.5.3 Apply troubleshooting skills
• Summary
• Chapter 12 Questions
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 13 Advanced Laptops and Portable Devices

• Introduction
• 13.1 Describe wireless communication methods for laptops and portable devices
• 13.1.1 Describe Bluetooth technology
• 13.1.2 Describe infrared technology
• 13.1.3 Describe cellular WAN technology
• 13.1.4 Describe Wi-Fi technology
• 13.1.5 Describe satellite technology
• 13.2 Describe repairs for laptops and portable devices
• 13.3 Select laptop components
• 13.3.1 Select batteries
• 13.3.2 Select a docking station or port replicator
• 13.3.3 Select storage devices
• 13.3.4 Select additional RAM
• 13.4 Describe preventive maintenance procedures for laptops
• 13.4.1 Describe how to schedule and perform maintenance for laptops
• 13.4.2 Explain how to manage data version control between desktops and laptops
• 13.5 Describe how to troubleshoot a laptop
• 13.5.1 Review the troubleshooting process
• 13.5.2 Identify common problems and solutions
• 13.5.3 Apply troubleshooting skills
• Summary
• Chapter 13 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 14 Advanced Printers and Scanners

• Introduction
• 14.1 Describe potential safety hazards and safety procedures associated with printers and scanners
• 14.2 Install and configure a local printer and scanner
• 14.2.1 Connect the device to a local port
• 14.2.2 Install and configure the driver and software
• 14.2.3 Configure options and default setting
• 14.2.4 Verify functionality
• 14.3 Describe how to share a printer and a scanner on a network
• 14.3.1 Describe types of print servers
• 14.3.2 Describe how to install network printer software and drivers on a computer
• 14.4 Upgrade and configure printers and scanners
• 14.4.1 Describe printer upgrades
• 14.4.2 Describe scanner optimization
• 14.5 Describe printer and scanner preventive maintenance techniques
• 14.5.1 Determine scheduled maintenance according to vendor guidelines
• 14.5.2 Describe a suitable environment for printers and scanners
• 14.5.3 Describe cleaning methods
• 14.5.4 Describe checking capacity of ink cartridges and toners
• 14.6 Troubleshoot printers and scanners
• 14.6.1 Review the troubleshooting process
• 14.6.2 Identify common problems and solutions
• 14.6.3 Apply troubleshooting skills
• Summary
• Chapter 14 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 15 Advanced Networks

• Introduction
• 15.1 Identify potential safety hazards and implement proper safety procedures related to networks
• 15.1.1 Explain fiber-optic safety
• 15.1.2 Explain cable, cable cutters, and cable cutting safety hazards
• 15.2 Design a network based on the customer’s needs
• 15.2.1 Determine a topology
• 15.2.2 Determine protocols and network applications
• 15.3 Determine the components for your customer’s network
• 15.3.1 Select cable types
• 15.3.2 Select an ISP connection type
• 15.3.3 Select network cards
• 15.3.4 Select the network device
• 15.4 Implement the customer’s network
• 15.4.1 Install and test the customer's network
• 15.4.2 Configure the customer’s Internet and network resources
• 15.5 Upgrade the customer’s network
• 15.5.1 Install and configure a wireless NIC
• 15.5.2 Install and configure a wireless router
• 15.5.3 Test a connection
• 15.6 Describe installation, configuration, and management of a simple mail server
• SMTP
• POP
• IMAP
• E-mail Server
• E-mail Server Installation
• 15.7 Describe preventive maintenance procedures for networks
• 15.8 Troubleshoot the network
• 15.8.1 Review the troubleshooting process
• 15.8.2 Identify common problems and solutions
• 15.8.3 Apply troubleshooting skills
• Summary
• Chapter 15 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Chapter 16 Advanced Security

• Introduction
• 16.1 Outline security requirements based on customer needs
• 16.1.1 Outline a local security policy
• 16.1.2 Explain when and how to use security hardware
• 16.1.3 Explain when and how to use security application software
• 16.2 Select security components based on customer needs
• 16.2.1 Describe and compare security techniques
• 16.2.2 Describe and compare access control devices
• 16.2.3 Describe and compare firewall types
• 16.3 Implement customer’s security policy
• 16.3.1 Configure security settings
• 16.3.2 Describe configuring firewall types
• 16.3.3 Describe protection against malicious software
• 16.4 Perform preventive maintenance on security
• 16.4.1 Describe the configuration of operating system updates
• 16.4.2 Maintain accounts
• 16.4.3 Explain data backup procedures, access to backups, and securing physical backup media
• 16.5 Troubleshoot security
• 16.5.1 Review the troubleshooting process
• 16.5.2 Identify common problems and solutions
• 16.5.3 Apply troubleshooting skills
• Summary
• Chapter 16 Quiz
• Your Chapter Notes
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Glossary

• 9781587132612 TOC 3/31/2010
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