CS 21353 S: PC Maintenance – Hardware (Hybrid)
Business and Technical Division Arkansas
Northeastern College
First Day Handout
Instructor:
Office:
Phone:
E-Mail:
Website:
Office Hours:
Ron Hutto
A116
(870) 780-1288
rhutto@smail.anc.edu
www.anc.edu
By appointment only
Term:
Class Meeting Days:
Class Meeting Hours:
Class Location:
Lab Location:
Fall 2013
TBA
TBA
INET
B204
I.
Welcome!
Welcome to PC Maintenance - Hardware. I look forward to having you in the class this semester. I hope you
learn a lot about computer hardware and solving computer hardware problems and I hope you have fun in
the process. The Student Handbook recommends 6 study hours a week for a 3-credit hour course for the
average student. The more time and effort that a student is willing to put into this class, the more the
student will get out of it.
II.
Course Catalog Description
Students will gain hands-on experience working inside a personal computer performing routine
maintenance, installing internal and external hardware, installing software, and running diagnostic
programs. The course objectives help students prepare for the CompTIA A+ Essentials exam.
III.
Course Overview
A variety of instructional methods will be utilized in this course, including reading assignments, lectures,
PowerPoint presentations, discussions, online simulation activities and hands-on lab activities. Assignments
have been carefully selected to enhance student learning.
IV.
Course Rationale
Computers and their associated technologies are a vital part of today's business and personal environments.
Increasingly, individuals and organizations look to computers to optimize workflow, establish a presence in
global markets, improve communication, and just generally maximize return on investment. Because of this
pervasive integration of computers and their associated technologies into today’s society, individuals who
have the knowledge and skills to support and maintain them are an asset in the workplace. This course
provides students with knowledge about computer hardware and the skills necessary to support and
maintain it.
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V.
Course Objectives
After successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
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Categorize storage devices and backup media
Explain motherboard components, types, and features
Classify power supply types and characteristics
Explain the purpose and characteristics of CPUs and their features
Explain cooling methods and devices
Compare and contrast memory types, characteristics, and purposes
Distinguish between the different display devices and their characteristics
Summarize the function and types of adapter cards
Install, configure, optimize, and maintain personal computer components
Install and configure printers
Determine the troubleshooting methods and tools for printers
Detect and resolve common printer issues
Explain the troubleshooting theory
Explain and interpret common hardware symptoms and their causes
Detect problems, troubleshoot, and repair/replace personal computer components
Perform common preventative maintenance techniques
Outline the purpose of appropriate safety and environmental procedures
Select and use diagnostic tools and system utilities
VI.
Course Prerequisites
Prerequisite: Grade “C” or better in CS 11533 Introduction to Computer Information Systems.
VII.
Course Credits
Three
VIII.
Required Texts and Materials
th
 A+ Guide to Hardware: Managing, Maintaining, and Troubleshooting. 6 Edition. Andrews. 2014.
Course Technology.
 LabConnection Online for A+ Guide to Hardware: Managing, Maintaining, and Troubleshooting.
(Access Code)
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IX.
Basis for Final Grade
Assessment
Points*
First Day Handout Quiz
Lab Connection Simulated Lab Assignments (22 @ 5 points ea.)
Chapter Tests (11 @ 10 points ea.)
Chapter Homework and Discussion Posts
Exams
Exam 1 = 50 points
Exam 2 = 100 points
Exam 3 = 150 points
Exam 4 = 200 points
5
110
110
275
500
Total Points
1000
Grades are determined by dividing each student’s accumulated points by the total points possible.
Grading Scale (%)
90-100
80 - 89
70 - 79
60 - 69
0 - 59
A
B
C
D
F
*Total points are subject to change.
X.
XI.
Grade Dissemination
The score on graded assignments may be accessed in the Gradebook for this course on myANC. Please note
that the overall grade shown in the portal prior to the final grade at the end of the semester, including the
midterm grade, is an unofficial grade. If you need help accessing the Gradebook, see the online tutorial.
Course Policies: Grades
Late Work and Make-up Policy: The grade for a late LabConnection assignment is reduced by 1/2 (.5)
point for each day it is late, up to five days (including weekend days). The grade for a late Chapter Quiz is
reduced by one (1) point for each day it is late, up to five days (including weekend days). LabConnection
assignments or Chapter Quizzes that are more than five days late are not accepted. Weekly discussion
participation activities may not be made up.
If you are forced to miss an exam, you must notify me in advance. You may call me at the number listed
above and leave a voice mail message, if necessary, or you may email me. My preferred method of
communication is by email. Failure to notify me in advance forfeits your opportunity to take advantage
of this make-up policy. Third party documentation of the reason for missing the exam may be required. I
reserve the right to reject the source of the documentation. A make-up exam, which may be different
than the original exam, must be taken within one week of the missed exam.
The final examination must be taken during the scheduled time period.
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Extra Credit Policy:
Assignments for extra credit are given at the instructor’s discretion.
Grades of "Incomplete": The current College policy concerning incomplete grades will be followed in this
course. Incomplete grades are given only in situations where unexpected emergencies prevent a stu dent
from completing the course and the remaining work can be completed the next semester. Your instructor
is the final authority on whether you qualify for an incomplete. Incomplete work must be finished by mid term of the subsequent semester or the “I” will automatically be recorded as an “F” on your transcript.
Group Work Policy: Everyone must take part in a group project, if one is assigned. All members of a group
will receive the same score; that is, the project is assessed and everyone receives this score. However,
that number is only 90% of your grade for this project. The final 10% is individual, and refers to your
teamwork. Every person in the group will provide the instructor with a suggested grade for every other
member of the group, and the instructor will assign a grade that is informed by those suggestions. Once
formed, groups cannot be altered or switched, except by the instructor.
XII.
Course Policies: Technology and Media
Email: Arkansas Northeastern College has partnered with Google to host email addresses for ANC
students. myANCmail accounts are created for each student enrolled in the current semester and is the
email address your instructor will use to communicate with you. Access your email account by going to
http://mail.googl e.com/a/smail.anc.edu and using your first and last names, separated by a period for
your username. Your default password is your Student ID, no hyphens. If you cannot access your
student email, contact the MITS department at 762-1020 ext 1150 or ext 1207 or send an email to
ANChelp@smail.anc.edu.
Since your ANC student email account will be the email account that will be used in this class, please
remember to check your student email often. Please contact your instructor using the email address listed
above. Emails should receive a response within 24 hours. Responses to emails received on the weekends
may be delayed up to 48 hours.
Internet: This course has an Internet component on myANC. myANC is Arkansas Northeastern College’s
web portal and Learning Management System (LMS). Content materials, study aids, and grades can be
found on myANC and major exams will be given on myANC. A personal UserID and password is required to
access most of the portal. Your UserID is your StudentID and your password is the last four digits of your
social security number. If the last four digits of your social security number begin with zero, drop the zero
and use the last three digits. myANC can be found at http://myanc.anc.edu or it may be accessed using
the link on our homepage, www.anc.edu. Help for new users is available through the myANC Tutor tab
found on myANC or by emailing ANCHelp@smail.anc.edu.
The LabConnection website will also be utilized in this course for completing simulated lab assignments.
The web address is www.login.cengagebrain.com. Instructions for registering and enrolling in
LabConnection Online can be found with the activation code that you purchased. You will also need a
class code for this course in addition to the activation code. The class code is CS21353SF13.
Personal Computers: You will need access to a reliable computer in order to complete this course. If you
do not own a personal computer with Internet access, you may use the Computer Lab provided by ANC as
described below. Computer problems will not be accepted as an excuse for missed or late assignments.
We are not responsible for making your computer work, but if you have questions regarding technical
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issues related to myANC, you may email anchelp@smail.anc.edu with your specific question and someone
will try to help you.
Laptop Usage (in class): Classroom computers are provided, so student use of personal laptops is not
necessary.
Classroom Devices: If students want to use tape recorders in class to record lectures, discussions, and
comments, the use of tape recorders is permitted. Other classroom devices, such as calculators are not
needed.
Computer Labs: In addition to general-purpose classrooms, a number of computer laboratories are
provided for instructional and student use. These networked laboratories are state-of-the-art and fully
equipped with computers, printers, Internet connections and the latest software. The labs are open to
students enrolled in one or more credit hours at the College.
Technology Support: A lab assistant is generally present in the computer lab in B202 for assistance in
using the College computers. These assistants cannot help you with course assignments; specific
questions regarding the technology requirements for each course should be directed to the instructor of
the course. Problems with myANC or College email accounts should be addressed by email to
ANCHelp@smail.anc.edu.
XIII.
Course Policies: Student Expectations
Disability Access: Arkansas Northeastern College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations
for all persons with disabilities. This First Day Handout is available in alternate formats upon request.
Students with disabilities who need accommodations in this course must contact the instructor at the
beginning of the semester to discuss needed accommodations. No accommodations will be provided until
the student has met with the instructor to request accommodations. Students who need
accommodations must be registered with Johnny Moore in Statehouse Hall, 762-3180.
Attendance Policy: It is to your advantage to be in attendance, and on time, for every class and to allocate
appropriate study time each day to insure success in this course. If you must be absent because of illness or
an emergency, please refer to the schedule below or contact me or a classmate to find out what you missed.
Please remember, I prefer to be contacted by email. Absences will adversely affect your grade and regular
attendance is a proven benefit to learning.
Professionalism Policy:
 Be in class on time with materials ready.
 Complete homework assignments and readings before class.
 Plan your time wisely. A traditional rule of thumb is that the average student needs to spend two
to three hours on outside study per week for each credit hour in a course. Self-discipline and
planning are necessary for success in any course. It is important that you create your own systems
and structures that will aid you in completing all course requirements.
 Ask questions about any class material that you do not understand.
 Be attentive during class.
 Only visit websites that are being discussed in class. Class time is not the time to visit social
networking sites such as Facebook.
 Be respectful of others.
 Turn off your cell phone and put it away before entering the classroom. If it must be on in case of
an emergency, please set it to vibrate and step outside the classroom to receive your call, so other
students will not be disturbed.
 In emails and all other writings, use correct grammar, punctuation and spelling. Texting
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abbreviations and styles are inappropriate for college work.
Academic Integrity Policy:
Academic dishonesty in any form will not be tolerated. Students are expected to do their own work.
Plagiarism, using the words of others without express permission or proper citation, will not be tolerated.
Any cheating (giving or receiving) or other dishonest activity will, at a minimum, result in a zero on that
test or assignment and may be referred, at the discretion of the instructor, to the Department Chair
and/or Vice President of Instruction for further action. If you are uncertain as to what constitutes
academic dishonesty, please consult the Academic Integrity Policy for further details.
(http://www.anc.edu/docs/Academic_Integrity_Policy.pdf)
Academic & Career Enrichment Advising Center:
The Academic & Career Enrichment (ACE) Advising Center is located in Statehouse Hall in Room S145. The
ACE Advising Center advises all new ANC students. Once a student is progressing through his/her program
of study the student will be assigned an advisor in the field of study. Prospective students are provided
test prep assistance through the computerized Skills Tutor system for Compass test placement. The ACE
Advising Center also houses a Virtual Career Center including career placement services, as well as
academic tutoring services for enrolled students. The tutoring services offered are one-on-one tutoring,
group tutoring, and group labs for specific classes.
Other Student Support Services:
Many departments are ready to assist you reach your educational goals. Be sure to check with your
advisor; the ACE Advising Center, Room S145 and Student Support Services, Room W207; to find the right
type of support for you.
XIV.
Important Dates to Remember
th
August 19 Classes Begin
rd
August 23 No Show Rosters Due
th
August 30 Last day to drop
nd
September 2 College Closed
th
October 11 Mid-Term grades due
th
November 4 Spring Registration
nd
November 22 Last day to Withdraw from classes
th
th
November 27 -29 Thanksgiving Break
nd
December 2 Graduation Application Submission
rd
th
December 3 & 4 Last Day of Fall Classes
th th
th
December 5 , 9 -11 Final exams
th
December 12 Grades are due
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XV.
Topical/Unit Outline & Objectives with Schedule (below):
Date
Aug 19,
25
Aug 26,
Sep 1
Topic/
Content
Chapter 1:
First Look at
Computer
Parts and
Tools
Chapter 2:
Working Inside
a Computer
Rationale
(Why is this important?)
In order to repair a computer, it is
important to understand the relationship
between hardware and software and to
be able to identify the hardware
components within the system.
The form factor of a computer
determines the type of case, motherboard
and power supply that a computer can
use. A technician must be able to identify
form factors in order to replace or add
components properly. When working
inside a computer, a technician must be
aware of and avoid dangers that can be
caused by electricity. This chapter will
help show how to avoid these dangers as
well as identify the appropriate tools for
computer troubleshooting and repair.
Chapter Objectives
After studying this chapter, the student
should be able to:
 Define hardware and software
 Explain the relationship between hardware
and software
 Explain how binary is used to store and
read data
 Identify the four basic functions of
hardware
 Describe the three elements required by all
input, output, and storage devices
 Identify common hardware devices and
categorize them as to their functions
 Differentiate between primary and
secondary storage devices
 Identify major motherboard components
and their purposes
 Identify common motherboard ports
 Describe form factors used for computer
cases, motherboards and power supplies
 Describe basic electrical components and
how electricity is measured
 Classify power supply types and
characteristics
 Explain how to protect people and
equipment against the dangers of
electricity
 Identify PC support technician tools and
their purposes
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LabConnection
Assignments and
Chapter Tests
Chapter 1:
Lab Connection Labs 1,
& 2,
Due Date
(by 10:00
p.m.)
Aug 25
Chapter Homework
Quiz
Chapter 2:
Lab Connection Labs 1,
&2
Chapter Homework
Quiz
Sep 1
Date
Sep 3,
15
Sep 15
Sep 16,
22
Sep 23,
29
Topic/
Content
Chapter 3: All
About
Motherboards
Rationale
(Why is this important?)
The features of the motherboard must be
properly matched with other components
in order for the computer to work
properly. Therefore, it is important for a
technician to be able to identify and
understand these features in order to
install and configure the motherboard
and other computer components
correctly.
Chapter Objectives
After studying this chapter, the student
should be able to:
 Identify motherboard components and
explain their features
 Explain how Startup BIOS controls the boot
process
 Install and configure a motherboard
 Maintain a motherboard
LabConnection
Assignments and
Chapter Tests
Due Date
(by 10:00
p.m.)
Chapter 3:
Lab Connection Lab 1
Sep 15
Chapter Homework
Quiz
Exam 1
(Chapters 1-3)
Chapter 4:
Supporting
Processors
and
Upgrading
Memory
Chapter 5:
Supporting
Hard Drives
The CPU is the most important
component on the motherboard and is
the primary component that determines
the computing power of the system. For
this reason, it is important that the
technician know about the characteristics
of CPUs and how to keep them cool so
that s/he can properly select and install a
CPU and troubleshoot a faulty one.
The hard drive is the most important
secondary storage device in a computer.
There are many different hard drive
technologies with which a technician
must be familiar in order to select, install,
configure, and troubleshoot a hard drive
properly.
 Describe the purpose and characteristics of
CPUs
 Describe CPU cooling methods and devices
 Select and install a processor
 Troubleshoot the motherboard and
processor
 Compare and contrast memory
technologies and features
 Upgrade memory
 Troubleshoot memory
 Compare and contrast hard drive
technologies
 Describe how data is stored on a hard drive
 Select, install and configure a hard drive
 Troubleshoot hard drives
Chapter 4:
Lab Connection Labs 1,
2, & 3
Chapter Homework
Quiz
Chapter 5:
Lab Connection Labs 1
&2
Chapter Homework
Quiz
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Sep 22
Sep 29
Date
Sep 30,
Oct 10
Oct 9
Oct 11,
20
Oct 21,
Nov 3
Topic/
Content
Chapter 6:
Supporting
I/O and
Storage
Devices
Rationale
(Why is this important?)
Chapter Objectives
After studying this chapter, the student
should be able to:
There are many input/output devices
with which a technician must be familiar
in order to install and support them. This
chapter familiarizes the student with the
many types and features of I/O devices,
the ports that are needed to connect
them to the computer and the proper
way to install configure and troubleshoot
them.
 Describe the types and features of ports
 Compare and contrast the characteristics
and features of display devices
 Explain the function and characteristics of
I/O adapter cards
 Install and configures I/O devices
 Install and configure I/O adapter cards
 Troubleshoot I/O and storage devices
As a professional PC Support technician,
you can manage your career by staying
abreast of new technologies, using
available resources to do your job well,
and maintaining professional
certifications. It is essential for a PC
technician to work effectively with people
in a technical world.
 Job roles and responsibilities
 What customers want and expect beyond
your technical abilities.
 How to interact with customers when
selling, servicing, and supporting personal
computers
 How to customize a computer system to
meet customer needs.
LabConnection
Assignments and
Chapter Tests
Chapter 6
Lab Connection Labs 1,
2, 3, & 4
Due Date
(by 10:00
p.m.)
Oct 10
Chapter Homework
Quiz
Midterm Exam:
Chapters 1-6
Chapter 7:
Satisfying
Customer
Needs
Chapter 8:
Troubleshooting
Hardware
Problems
Chapter 9:
Connecting to
and Setting Up
Nov 4, 12
a Network
It is important for a technician to have a
strategy in mind for supporting personal
computers and their users. A strategy
gives the technician direction, purpose,
and a plan. This chapter helps the
student develop strategies to stay safe,
protect equipment, prevent and solve
problems.
 Outline the purpose of appropriate safety
and environmental procedures
 Perform common preventative
maintenance
 Explain the troubleshooting theory
Chapter 7:
Lab Connection Labs 1,
2, & 3
Oct 20
Chapter Homework
Quiz
Chapter 8:
Lab Connection Lab 1
Chapter Homework
Nov 3
Quiz
It is important for a technician to know
how Windows uses TCP/IP protocols and  Connect a computer to a network
standards to create and manage network  Understand the TCP/IP
connections. This chapter helps the
protocols and standards
student understand how to connect a
 Support SOHO networks.
computer to a network and how to setup a
small wired or wireless network.
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Chapter 9:
Lab Connection Lab 1
Chapter Homework
Quiz
Nov 12
Date
Nov 12
Topic/
Content
Rationale
(Why is this important?)
Nov
22
Dec 4
TBA
XVI.
LabConnection
Assignments and
Chapter Tests
Due Date
(by 10:00
p.m.)
Exam 3
(Chapters 1-9)
Chapter 10:
Networking
Types,
Devices, and
Nov 13,
22
Chapter Objectives
After studying this chapter, the student
should be able to:
Chapter 10 will be a review at the end of the
semester if time permits.
Chapter 11:
Supporting
Notebooks
More and more computers purchased
today are notebook computers. As they
become more popular, technicians need
to know how to support them. This
chapter explains how to support, upgrade,
and troubleshoot notebooks.
 Describe special considerations when
supporting notebooks
 Install and configure peripheral devices
used with notebooks
 Install and configure internal notebook
components
 Troubleshoot notebooks
Chapter 12:
Supporting
Printers
The printer is one of the most popular
output devices. A technician needs to be
familiar with the different printer types
and their features in order to support,
install, configure, and troubleshoot them.
 Compare and contrast printer types and
features
 Install and share a printer
 Maintain a printer
 Troubleshoot a printer
Chapter 11:
Lab Connection Labs 1
&2
Nov 22
Test
Chapter 12:
Lab Connection Labs 1,
2, & 3
Nov 28
Test
Comprehensive
Final Exam
Disclaimer: This First Day Handout was prepared under certain limited assumptions. Therefore, if the students in the class seem to "fit" the design for the course and if
events occur as planned, the schedule, assignments, and assessments will be followed. The instructor has the option, however, to eliminate and/or add assignments
and/or assessments if he/she feels it is in the best interest of the students.
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