MODULE FRAMEWORK

Certificate : Internetwork System Computer Hardware Management (HW122)

Specialist Level 5
Credits 15

____________________________________________________________________

Year: 2011 (1st year) Term: Class group: Brown

Facilitator:

Description

SYLLABUS:
1. Install and configure computer systems.
PC architecture
Case; (full tower, mid tower, mini tower, desktop, slim line, proprietary case designs, comparison of
case designs; the power supply; power supply connectors; the motherboard; types of systems boards;
systems board components; the processor/CPU memory; storage devices; hard disk systems; floppy
drives; CD-ROM drives; CD-R and CD-RW drives; DVD-ROM drives; DVD burners; others storage
media; adapter cards; video card; network interface card (NIC); modem; sound card; display devices;
display concepts; ports and cables; peripheral port connector types; common peripheral interfaces and
cables.
Disk drive storage
Storage types, punch cards and tape, disk drives, disk theory, floppy disk systems, the medium, the
drives, the controller, the cable, floppy drive installation and configuration, IDE/ATA disk systems,
IDE/ATA technologies, IDE/EIDE installation and configuration, small computer system interface
(SCSI), types of SCSI, SCSI device installation and configuration, disk system fault tolerance, disk
mirroring, disk duplexing, disk striping, redundant array of inexpensive (or independent), disks (RAID).
2. Perform computer systems diagnostics, troubleshooting preventative maintenance and safety
procedures.
Hardware troubleshooting
Troubleshooting resources, intellectual resources; hardware and software resources; top 10
troubleshooting steps; software/hardware/DOS/windows troubleshooting; POST routines; problems with
motherboard; hard disk system; peripheral; keyboard and mouse/display system; floppy drive; sound
card; power supply; BIOS issues.
3. Analyse the features and functions of motherboard, processors, memory components of the
PC system.
Optimizing PC performance, preventative maintenance, and safety
Optimizing PC performance; cooling system optimization; disk subsystem enhancements; NIC
performance; specialized video cards; memory performance; additional performance enhancements;
preventing electrostatic discharge (ESD); antistatic wrist strap; antistatic bags for parts; ESD antistatic
mats; other protection methods; maintaining safety; the computer; the power supply; the printer; the
monitor; the keyboard and mouse; environmental concerns; cleaning systems.
4. Perform networking functions and printer setup
Building a PC
Background information; clearing workspace; collect tools/parts; prepare motherboard; removing
motherboard; installing the CPU/processor; installing; memory & motherboard; removing the case
cover; installing mounting standoffs; removing the back-panel punch outs; connecting the front-panel
connectors; installing and securing the motherboard; installing; power supply; storage devices; floppy
disk drives; hard disk(s); CD-ROM/CD-RW/DVD/DVD-RW; expansion cards; video card; other
expansion cards; connecting peripherals; power; testing configuring CMOS; finishing up; installing
network / modem connections / speakers / headphones / operating system; removal and replacement
procedures.
MODULE FRAMEWORK

Certificate : Internetwork System Computer Hardware Management (HW122)

Specialist Level 5
Credits 15

____________________________________________________________________
Portable systems
Laptop architecture; comparing laptops to desktops; laptop case; motherboard and supporting circuitry
memory; storage; displays; input devices; expansion bus and ports; networking; docking stations;
power systems; laptop component installation; installing storage devices; installing power systems;
replacing or adding memory; adding input devices; installing expansion devices; replacing displays;
enabling wireless networking.
Upgrading PC components
PC upgrade background; importance and possibility of upgrade; upgrading; PC components;
motherboard; CPU; memory; hard drives/storage; BIOS; expansion cards; laptop; monitors;; installing
PC peripherals; modems and transceivers; wireless access points; adding external storage; connecting
scanners and digital cameras; connecting printers UPS (uninterruptible power supplies); PDA; using
infrared devices.
Motherboards
CPU, and RAM Motherboard architecture; chipsets; memory; communication ports; processor sockets;
external cache memory (level 2); bus architectures; BIOS; CPU; architecture differences; CPU
manufacturers; RAM; types; operational characteristics.

LEARNING OUTCOMES
The specific outcomes and associated assessment criteria for this module are indicated below.

Learning Outcomes Assessment Criteria

To achieve each outcome the student must demonstrate the

ability to:

LO1. Demonstrate understanding of
the configuration of computer
systems.
AC1. Identify IRQ’s, DMA’s, and I/O addresses and
describe the procedures for altering these when
installing and configuring devices
AC2. Describe the purposes, and performance
characteristics, of peripheral ports, associated
cabling and their connectors
AC3. Install and configure IDE and peripheral devices,
and explain related procedures
AC4. Optimize PC operations in specific situations, and
explain related procedures.

LO2. Perform computer systems
diagnostics, troubleshooting
preventative maintenance and
safety procedures.
AC5. Apply steps to isolate and diagnose computer
hardware problems
AC6. Describe the preventive maintenance measures,
products and procedures available to resolve
hardware problems
AC7. Take safety measures and procedures when
working with computer hardware

LO3. Demonstrate understanding of
the features and functions of
motherboard, processors, and
memory components of the
PC system.
AC8. Describe the types of RAM (Random Access
Memory) and their key operational characteristics
AC9. Identify and describe the vital Motherboard
components
AC10. Describe the flashing of a BIOS, and related
MODULE FRAMEWORK

Certificate : Internetwork System Computer Hardware Management (HW122)

Specialist Level 5
Credits 15

____________________________________________________________________
procedures

LO4. Perform configuration of
networking functions and
printer setup.
AC11. Identify the technologies available for establishing
Internet connectivity, and describe the function of
each
AC12. Construct, configure and assemble a network cable,
and describe the related procedures
AC13. Install a computer network.
AC14. Configure a local and networked printer.

APPLICABLE GENERAL OUTCOMES:

a. Identify and solve problems in which responses display the ability to make responsible decisions
and use critical and creative thinking.
b. Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organization or community.
c. Organize and manage oneself and one’s activities responsibly and effectively.
d. Collect, analyse, organize and critically evaluate information.
e. Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and verbal skills in oral and/or written
presentations.
f. Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the
environment and the health of others.
g. Comprehend that the world is a set of inter-related systems by recognising that problems cannot be
solved in isolation.
TEACHING-LEARNING METHODS:
The delivery of this module could consist of a combination of the following:
Formal presentations (lectures), Group discussions (tutorials), Self-study, E-learning (interaction with
computers), assignments, and workplace learning.
ASSESSMENT:
Assessment in this module is conducted by way of
 different methods during the duration of the module to monitor your learning and give guidance
towards your further learning based on identified learning gaps (continuous assessment), and
 assessment at the end to determine achievement of all competence standards to achieve a pass,
merit or distinction grade (final assessment).
The applicable methods and its frequency are indicated below:

METHOD TYPE FREQUENCY METHOD TYPE FREQUENCY

Written Test 2 Practical Examination 1

Written Examination
Workplace Experiential 1
Learning Portfolio

WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE:
MODULE FRAMEWORK

Certificate : Internetwork System Computer Hardware Management (HW122)

Specialist Level 5
Credits 15

____________________________________________________________________
This module requires workplace experience as an integrated component of your learning. The purpose
is to learning how to apply your knowledge and skills in the real work environment. It is required to
complete 120 hours (15 working days) during the year. The dates will be communicated at a later
stage.
LEARNING RESOURCES:
The resources used in this module cover the following:
 Prescribed Textbooks
 Manuals (Library)
 Internet (When required)
 Other ( Files on Class Server)

Prescribed textbook:

Quentin Docter, Emmette Dulaney & Toby Skandier, 2009. A+ Complete Study Guide
Wiley. Sybex, ISBN: 9780470486481

The above prescribed book becomes the property of the student.

Recommended Reading:
PC Technician Street Smarts: A Real World Guide to CompTIA A+ Skills, Sybex, 0-470-08458-8

Journals and/or Magazines

Regasek Jovan. 2008/9/2010. iWeek. ITWeb Limited

Library resources:
We provide a variety of resources such as copies of recommended textbooks in the Library Resource
Centre. In addition, there are computer work stations with Internet access for students who do not have
their own computer in class. The Internet offers a wealth of information! It is therefore strongly advised
that you make full use of these resources.
There are also several public libraries (e.g. Bellville and Durbanville) in the Northern suburbs of Cape
Town, which you could use for information gathering.

PROGRAMME : TERM .............1...................

Session Date Period Room Theme

1-2 25 Jan 1,2,3,4 206 Introductions / Books

1-2 26 Jan 1,2,3,4 206 LAN Cabling
1-2 27 Jan 5,6,7,8 206 Open a pc and explain all relevant components
1-2 28 Jan 1,2,3,4 206 Peripheral Devices explained
1-2 31 Jan 5,6,7,8 206 Computer Components showed and explained
1-2 1 Feb 1,2,3,4 206 POE Explained
Portable Devices
1-2 2 Feb 5,6,7,8 206 Laptops and laptop components
1-2 3 Feb 1,2,3,4 206 Hardware Troubleshooting
MODULE FRAMEWORK

Certificate : Internetwork System Computer Hardware Management (HW122)

Specialist Level 5
Credits 15

____________________________________________________________________
1-2 4 Feb 5,6,7,8 206 Printers installation and printer hardware
1-2 7 Feb 1,2,3,4 206 Scanner types and installations
1-2 8 Feb 5,6,7,8 206 Operating Systems Explained
1-2 9 Feb 1,2,3,4 206 OS Installation Preparation
1-2 10 Feb 5,6,7,8 206 OS Installations
1-2 11 Feb 1,2,3,4 206 Configuring of a Operating System
1-2 14 Feb 5,6,7,8 206 Networking Basics
1-2 15 Feb 1,2,3,4 206 Cabling types
&
make a cable
1-2 16 Feb 5,6,7,8 206 Networking Security setup and configurations
1-2 17 Feb 1,2,3,4 206 Communication
1-2 18 Feb 5,6,7,8 206 Test 1
1-2 21 Feb 1,2,3,4 206 Optimising OS security (VPN)
1-2 22 Feb 5,6,7,8 206 Upgrading OS (practical)
1-2 23 Feb 1,2,3,4 206 Troubleshooting OS
1-2 24 Feb 5,6,7,8 206 Binary & Hexadecimal conversions
(practical)
1-2 25 Feb 1,2,3,4 206 IP addresses explained and configured
Hand in Task1
1-2 28 Feb 5,6,7,8 206 Computer Numbering systems
1-2 1 March 1,2,3,4 206 Printer installations
1-2 2 March 5,6,7,8 206 Printer Troubleshooting
1-2 3 March 1,2,3,4 206 Computer Documentation and report writing
1-2 4 March 5,6,7,8 206 Test 2
1-2 7 March 1,2,3,4 206 Network Installations
1-2 8 March 5,6,7,8 206 Network Configurations
1-2 9 March 1,2,3,4 206 Network Security Configuration
1-2 10 March 5,6,7,8 206 Business Plans (sample plans discussed)
1-2 11 March 1,2,3,4 206 Hand in Task2 & Reports
1-2 14 March 5,6,7,8 206 Labs
1-2 15 March 1,2,3,4 206 Labs
1-2 16 March 5,6,7,8 206 Labs
1-2 17 March 1,2,3,4 206 OS - Theory Exam 8:30 Am
MODULE FRAMEWORK

Certificate : Internetwork System Computer Hardware Management (HW122)

Specialist Level 5
Credits 15

____________________________________________________________________
1-2 18 March 5,6,7,8 206 HW - Theory Exam 11:00 Am
1-2 22 March 1-8 206 Practical Exam – A 8:30 Am
1-2 23 March 1-8 206 Practical Exam – B 8:30 Am
1-2 24 March 1-8 206 Practical Exam – C 8:30 Am
1-2 25 March 1-8 206 Practical Exam – D 8:30 Am
1-2 28 March 1,2,3,4 206 Theory Exam – OS – Rewrite - Feedback
1-2 29 March 5,6,7,8 206 Theory Exam – HW – Rewrite - Feedback
1-2 30 March 1-8 206 Practical Rewrite A - B
1-2 31 March 1-8 206 Practical Rewrite C - D