Course: CompTIA A+ Essentials

This course will prepare students for the 220-601 A+ Certification Essentials examination.

The course consists of two volumes, with a study volume, containing indexed notes and review questions, and a companion volume, containing exam objectives mapping, exam information, practical labs, answers to review questions, and a comprehensive glossary.

This course is intended for students wishing to qualify with CompTIA A+ Certification for PC Support professionals. It is also suitable for students wanting to improve their skills in PC support and administration.

Students should have successfully completed PC Fundamentals or have basic experience of using a PC, Windows and browsing the Web. The following key skills are recommended:

Use a keyboard and mouse
Recognise the main components of a PC (such as case, monitor, mouse, and keyboard) and different data media such as floppy disks or CD-ROMs
Start the computer and navigate the Desktop
Use Windows Explorer to create directories and subdirectories; and move, copy, or rename files and directories
Use Internet Explorer to view websites
Delegates will learn how to
Identify types and characteristics of PC components, including motherboard, CPU, memory, and storage, input, and output devices
Install and configure peripheral devices
Identify types and characteristics of portable computers
Install and configure Microsoft Windows 2000 and Microsoft Windows XP
Perform basic PC maintenance and troubleshooting
Understand fundamental principles of securing IT systems and working safely
Communicate effectively with customers
Install and configure print and imaging devices
Understand fundamental principles of implementing LANs and internet access

Module 1: PC Components

The Visible PC Introduction to the PC • Key Functions of a PC • The System Case • I/O Ports and Cables • PS2 Ports • Parallel Ports • Serial Ports • USB Ports • SCSI • IEEE 1394 (Firewire) • Modem and Network Ports • Audio Ports • Joystick/MIDI Ports • Adding and Removing Peripherals
Motherboards Motherboard Layout • System Clock • Bus Architecture • Motherboard Components • Expansion Bus and Adapter Cards • Motherboard Form Factors • Power Supply Unit (PSU)
Processors Central Processing Unit (CPU) • Processor Terminology • Multitasking, Multiprocessing, and Multithreading • Intel Processors • AMD Processors • Processor Sockets and Chipsets
Memory Memory Types • Memory Packaging • Memory Characteristics
Storage Devices Storage Devices • Hard Drives • Installing a Storage Device • Preparing a Hard Disk • Floppy Drives • Optical Disk Storage • Flash Memory • Tape Drives
Peripheral Devices PC Display Screens • Graphics Adapter • Installing a Graphics Adapter and Display • TV Tuners • Sound Cards • I/O and Communications Adapters

Module 2: Portable Computers

Portable Computers Portable and Desktop Computers • Notebooks • Tablet PC • Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs)

Module 3: Operating Systems

Features of Operating Systems Microsoft Operating Systems • Overview of Windows 2000 • Overview of Windows XP • Workgroups and Domains • UNIX and Linux • Apple Mac OS X • Novell NetWare
Installing and Upgrading Windows Overview of OS Installations • Preparing the Hard Disk • Domain or Workgroup Selection • Installation Methods • Setup Failure and Recovery • Upgrading the OS • Options for Deploying Windows
The Windows Boot Process Windows Boot Files • Initial Startup Process • The BOOT.INI File
Managing Windows Features of the Desktop • Windows Administrative Tools • Changing System Settings • Configuring Hardware • Optimising Windows Performance Options • Screen Savers and Power Management • Managing Software • Managing Services
Windows Storage Management Disk Management • Navigating Windows • Working with Folders • Working with Files • Searching For Files • The Recycle Bin • My Network Places

Module 4: PC Support

Hardware Maintenance and Troubleshooting Troubleshooting Techniques • Troubleshooting Power Problems • Troubleshooting POST • Troubleshooting Internal Devices • Troubleshooting Peripherals • Notebook Troubleshooting • Preventative Maintenance
Troubleshooting the Operating System Error Categories • Advanced Startup Options • Diagnosing Problems • Troubleshooting Applications • Remote Features
Security Security Fundamentals • Windows Security Overview • Internet Security • Malware • Data Security
Safety and Environmental Issues Health and Safety • Static Electricity and ESD • Materials Handling • Storage of Components for Future Use • Disposal of Consumables and Computer Equipment
Professionalism and Communication Customer Service Skills • Basic Troubleshooting Approach • Giving Feedback • Communication with a Customer • Professionalism • Handling Customer Complaints

Module 5: Printers and Scanners

Printers and Scanners The Print Process • Installing and Configuring a Printer • Operating and Troubleshooting Printers • Scanners • Installing and Using a Scanner

Module 6: Networking

Network Concepts What is a Network? • Network Components • Network Topologies • The OSI Model • IEEE 802 Standards • Network Devices • Network Transport Protocols
Implementing a LAN Server and Peer-to-Peer Networks • Network Components • Implementing a LAN • Network Troubleshooting Basics
WAN and Internet Connectivity Wide Area Networks and the Internet • Accessing the Internet • Cellular Devices • Voice-over-IP