Module Title:
PC Hardware Support
Module code:
(if known)
COMF410
Existing/New:
New
Originating Subject:
Module duration
(contact hours/
directed/directed private
study:
Level:
Semester(s) in which to
be offered:
1/2
4
Credit Value:
With effect from:
20
Sept 2009
Title of module being
replaced (if any):
Computing
200
(60/60/80)
Module Leader:
Status: core/option/elective
(identify programme where
appropriate):
Nigel Houlden
Core :FdSc IT Support
Option :FdSc Applied
Computing
Percentage taught by Subjects other than
originating Subject (please name other
Subjects):
Programme(s) in which to be
offered:
Pre-requisites per programme
(between levels):
Co-requisites per programme
(within a level):
FdSc IT Support
FdSc Applied Computing
Module Aims:
This module is designed to enable students to work effectively whilst troubleshooting and repairing
desktop computers in an installation/technical support role within manufacturing, commercial or
domestic sectors of industry. Students will learn about the operation of modern desktop computer
components, common peripherals, common hardware and software faults as well as industrial practice
and standards. Students will also gain experience of simplifying complex problems and an appreciation
of safe working practice. The module is primarily intended for students who expect to work in a
computer troubleshooting or support role, but is also relevant to all those on an IT course who require
a deeper or more effective understanding of modern desktop computers.
Expected Learning Outcomes
At the end of this module, students should be able to:
Knowledge and Understanding:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Describe desktop computer system components and hazards.
Describe approaches to troubleshooting and test methods.
Recognise and understand common hardware problems.
Troubleshoot hardware using test methods.
Investigate and solve system software problems.
Transferable/Key Skills and other attributes:






Research and investigative skills
Oral communication skills
Interpersonal skills
Self-evaluation
Decision making and independent thought
Thinking critically
Assessment:
Evidence for the knowledge and/or skills will be produced using a set of restricted response questions
to assess student’s knowledge and understanding. This may be administered as a single Multiple
Choice Test, or as several subtests, each covering one or more outcomes.
If a student requires to be reassessed, a different selection of questions will be used.
The practical component is assessed by having the student use and complete a logbook to record the
practical tasks successfully completed. The logbook can be produced by the student in paper or
electronic form and will be authenticated by the tutor.
If a student requires to be reassessed, a different selection of practical components will be used.
Assessment
1
2
Learning
Outcomes to be
met
1-5
1-5
Type of assessment
MCQ
Logbook
Weighting
Duration
(if exam)
30%
70%
1 hr
Word count or
equivalent if
appropriate
N/A
4,000
Learning and Teaching Strategies:
Students will receive instruction during workshops involving intensive practical work, on-line reading
material, and mini-lectures. Students are tested at all stages by probing on-line exams and
challenging practical case studies
Syllabus outline:
Desktop computer system components and hazards
Identifying potential hazards in the working environment
Identifying safe working practices
Identifying major components contained within a standard computer system and their interaction
Approaches to troubleshooting and test methods
approaches to troubleshooting
test methods
how to document faults
how the use of other sources of information assist in troubleshooting
Recognising and understanding common hardware problems
BIOS functionality and reprogramming
Given a problem situation, interpreting the symptoms and inferring the most likely cause, identifying
steps taken to isolate fault
Recognising common problems associated with computer system modules and their symptoms
Troubleshooting hardware using test methods
Interpreting error messages
Identifying steps to isolate and troubleshoot problems
Troubleshooting system hardware
Investigating and solving system software problems
Each stage of the boot process
Interpreting boot-up error messages
Core operating system components
Optional operating system components and how to select them
Software maintenance procedures
Solve software problems using diagnostic software aids
Solve connectivity issues within small networks
Bibliography
(please submit in Harvard referencing format)
Essential reading:
Mueller S, (2007), Upgrading and Repairing PCs 18th Ed, Que Publishing
Other indicative reading:
Norton P, Clark S, (2002) Peter Norton's New Inside the PC ,Sams
Norton, P, Desmond, M, (1999), Peter Norton's Complete Guide to Pc Upgrades, Macmillan Computer
Pub