Syllabus – A+ Computer Maintenance - Parkway … · 111-143 of the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics, Questions 1- 30 and Thinking Critically Answer Hands-on ... Chapter 6,

Syllabus – A+ Computer Maintenance Mr. Schuermeyer 3rd Block – 9:37 to 11:07 on Red Days, Room 2516 Course Objective: This course is designed to teach students the basics of computer hardware and software as used in business/industry today. Students will learn the inner workings of computers and have hands on experiences working on computers. When completed, students should have the background necessary to take the four A+ Certification Exams (given independently) that is recognized worldwide as a standard of knowledge and expertise in the computer industry. Grading Scale: We follow the district standard.

90% and Up = A, 80% - 89.9% = B, 70%-79.9% = C, 60% - 69.9% = D, and Below 60% = F Attendance and Make-Up Policies: ♦ When you are absent for any reason, you are responsible for missed work. ♦ You only have 2 weeks to catch up the work or it goes into the grade book as a ZERO ♦ If there are special circumstances, you must talk to me and make arrangements for the work missed. ♦ The lab is open during Ac Lab and you are expected to make use of it if you are behind. Your Responsibilities: ♦ Ask questions – THERE IS NO STUPID QUESTION except the one you do not ask. ♦ Be on time, ready to work every class!!! This means no tardies. I am expected to be here ready to work and I expect

the same of you. The first tardy will be excused but additional tardiness will lead to after school detentions. ♦ Do all of the work assigned. ♦ BE POSITIVE even in the face of adversity, bad attitudes have no place here and we are here to learn.

Two-semester (18 weeks each) Essentials and Practical Applications Courses: Textbooks and Lab Manuals: A+ Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your PC, 7th Edition Lab Manual, A+ Guide to Managing and Maintaining Your PC, 7th Edition Notes:

• These two course outlines are designed to comprise a PC Repair Essentials course followed by a PC Repair Practical Applications course. Both courses include a balanced content on hardware and software.

• The first semester is designed to cover the full range of content appropriate for a PC Repair Essentials course. However, know that all the content covered on the A+ 220-701 Essentials 2009 exam is not completed until the fourth week of the second semester.

• Students are encouraged to take the A+ 220-701 Essentials exam near the middle of the second semester. After reviewing questions missed on the Essentials exam and completing both semesters, students are then prepared to take the A+ 220-702 Practical Applications exam.

• Figure 1 shows a high-level view of how the chapters are organized for Essentials and Practical Application content

Figure 1: Essentials and Practical Application chapter organization

• The table below summarizes how chapters are used in the two courses. Note that some chapters include both Essentials and Practical Applications content. In these chapters, the break from Essentials to Practical Applications content is clearly marked.

Week Textbook Essentials Week 1 Chapter 1 Essentials Week 2 Chapter 2 Essentials Week 3 Chapter 3 Essentials Week 4 Chapter 4, Essentials Content Essentials Week 5 Chapter 5, Essentials Content Essentials Week 6 Chapter 6, Essentials Content Essentials Week 7 Chapter 7, Essentials Content Essentials Week 8 Chapter 8, Essentials Content Essentials Week 9 Chapter 9, Essentials Content Essentials Week 10 Chapter 10, Essentials Content Essentials Week 11 Chapter 11 Essentials Week 12 Chapter 12 Essentials Week 13 Chapter 13, Essentials Content Essentials Week 14 Chapter 14, Essentials Content Essentials Week 15 Finish up and testing Advanced Week 1 Chapter 15 Advanced Week 2 Chapter 17 Advanced Week 3 Chapter 19 Advanced Week 4 Chapter 21, Essentials Content Advanced Week 5 Chapter 22, Essentials Content

Essentials Content Completed Advanced Week 6 Chapter 4, Practical Applications Advanced Week 7 Chapter 5, Practical Applications

Chapter 6, Practical Applications Advanced Week 8 Chapter 7, Practical Applications



Chapter 14, Practical Applications Advanced Week 11 Chapter 16 Advanced Week 12 Chapter 18 Advanced Week 13 Chapter 20 Advanced Week 14 Chapter 21, Practical Applications

Chapter 22, Practical Applications Practical Application content completed

Advanced Week 15 Finish up and testing

PC Repair Essentials Course Week Class Objectives Class and Lab Content References/Homework for

Student 1 August 17 - 23

Chapter 1, entire chapter Upon completion of this chapter, the student will be able to:

• Explain how a computer requires both hardware and software to work

• Identify many hardware components

Upon completion of these labs, the student will be able to:

• Use available tools to gather system information

• Identify computer parts inside and outside the case

• Welcome • Class Introductions • Review Goals &

Objectives of Class, Syllabus, Lecture/Lab Format

• Point out the A+ Essentials 2009 grid and the A+ 2009 Practical Application grids at the beginning of the book

• Chapter 1: Introducing Hardware

• Lab 1.1: Gather and Record System Information

• Lab 1.2: Identify Computer Parts

Textbook, Chapter 1. Introducing Hardware Homework: Read the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics and Thinking Critically questions. Answer Hands-on Projects 1-1 through 1-4 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 1.1, 1.2 Answer all lab questions in class

2 August 25 - 31


• Explain differences between the various operating systems

• Describe the components of a Windows OS

• Know how an OS interfaces with users, files, folders, applications, and hardware


• Use the command line and other Windows tools to examine a system

• Understand the relationships among operating systems

• Use Windows keyboard shortcuts

• Chapter 2: Introducing Operating Systems

• Lab 2.1: Examine Files and Directories

• Lab 2.5: Compare Operating Systems

• Lab 2.6: Use Windows Keyboard Shortcuts

Textbook, Chapter 2. Introducing Operating Systems Homework: Read the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics and Thinking Critically questions. Answer Hands-on Projects 2-1, 2-3, 2-4, and 2-5 questions and Real Problems, Real Solutions 2-1 and 2-2. Lab Manual: Labs 2.1, 2.5, 2.6 Answer all lab questions in class

3

Chapter 3, entire chapter

• Chapter 3: Working with People in a Technical

Textbook, Chapter 3. Working with People in a

Sept. 6-12

Upon completion of this chapter, the student will be able to:

• Describe job roles and responsibilities of those who sell, fix, or support personal computers

• Understand what customers expect of a PC support technician that goes beyond technical knowledge

• Interact with customers when selling, servicing, and supporting personal computers


• Describe the code of ethics for IT professionals and make an ethical decision

• Evaluate and respond to the needs of customers

• Use help desk skills in a chat session or on the phone to solve customer problems

• Listen well and respond with integrity when a customer is angry

• Apply help desk procedures to decide how to handle a problem, including when to escalate the problem

World • Lab 3.1: Understand IT

Codes of Ethics • Lab 3.2: Provide

Customer Service • Lab 3.3: Practice Help

Desk Skills • Lab 3.4: Practice Good

Communication Skills • Lab 3.5: Understand the

Help Desk Procedures for a Company

Technical World Homework: Read the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics and Thinking Critically questions. Answer Hands-on Projects 3-1, 3-2, 3-3, 3-4, and 3-5 questions and Real Problems, Real Solutions 3-2 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, and 3.5 Answer all lab questions in class

4 Sept. 14 to 20

Chapter 4, Essentials sections Upon completion of the Essentials sections of this chapter, the student will be able to:

• Describe the different form factors used by motherboards, computer cases, and power supplies and select appropriate form factors to match a system

• Describe how electricity is measured and about

• A+ Essentials sections of Chapter 4: Form Factors, Power Supplies, and Working Inside a Computer, Pages 111-143.

• Lab 4.1: Identify Form Factors

• Lab 4.4: Find Documentation on the Internet

• Lab 4.5: Choose the Right Power Supply

Textbook, Chapter 4, Essentials sections. Form Factors, Power Supplies, and Working Inside a Computer, Essentials sections, Pages 111-143. Homework: Read Pages 111-143 of the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics, Questions 1- 30 and Thinking Critically questions. Answer Hands-on Projects 4-2, 4-3, 4-5, 4-6, 4-7, and 4-8.

electrical components • Select an appropriate

power supply for a system

• Protect self and others against the dangers of electricity


• Identify and match form factors of motherboards, cases, and power supplies

• Find documentation on the Internet for computer components

• Select a replacement power supply

Lab Manual: Labs 4.1, 4.4, and 4.5 Answer all lab questions in class

5 Sept. 22 to 28


• Describe the different types of features of motherboards

• Understand how motherboard firmware controls the beginning of the boot


• Examine and change BIOS settings

• Identify a CPU and motherboard connectors and features

• Chapter 5: All About Motherboards, Essentials sections, Pages 175-210.

• Lab 5.1: Examine and Adjust CMOS Settings

• Lab 5.3: Identify Motherboard Components

•

Textbook, Chapter 5, Essentials sections. All About Motherboards Homework: Read the Essentials sections of the chapter, Page 175-210, and answer Reviewing the Basics Questions 1-23 and Thinking Critically Questions 1-4. Answer Hands-on Projects 5-2, 5-4, 5-5 and 5-7, and Real Problems, Real Solutions 5-2 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 5.1, and 5.3 Answer all lab questions in class

6 Sept 30 to Oct 6.


• Describe features of current Intel and AMD processors uses for personal computers

• Chapter 6: Supporting Processors, Essentials sections, Pages 239-256.

• Lab 6.4: Choose a CPU Cooling Solution

• Lab 6.5: Critical Thinking: Restoring an Overclocked PC

Textbook, Chapter 6, Supporting Processors, Essentials sections Homework: Read the Essentials sections of the chapter, Pages 239-256, and answer Reviewing the Basics Questions 1-18, and Thinking Critically

• Know how to keep a system cool


• Select a cooling unit for a particular CPU

• Overclock and restore a CPU

Questions 1-2. Answer Hands-on Projects 6-1, 6-2, 6-3, 6-4, and 6-6questions. Lab Manual: Labs 6-4 and 6.5 Answer all lab questions in class

7 Oct. 10 – 14

Chapter 7, Essentials section Upon completion of the Essentials section of this chapter, the student will be able to:

• Describe the different kinds of physical memory and how they work


• Identify the type memory required for a system and use the Internet to research price and availability

• Use the Kingston Web site to research memory types appropriate for a system

• Enable and configure Vista ReadyBoost for optimal performance

• Chapter 7: Upgrading Memory, Essentials sections, Pages 297- 307.

• Lab 7.1: Research RAM on the Internet

• Lab 7.2: Explore the Kingston Web Site

• Lab 7.4: Use Vista’s ReadyBoost

Textbook, Chapter 7: Upgrading Memory, Essentials sections, Pages 297- 307. Homework: Read Pages 297-307 of the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics, Questions 1- 30, and Thinking Critically Questions 1-3. Answer Hands-on Projects 7-1, 7-2, and 7-5 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 7.1, 7.2, 7.4 Answer all lab questions in class

8 Oct. 18 to 24


• Describe technologies used for hard drives and how data is organized on a drive

• Describe how a computer communicates with a hard drive

• How RAID works • Describe how floppy

drives work

Upon completion of these labs,

• Chapter 8: Supporting Hard Drives, Essentials sections, Pages 329- 347.

• Lab 8.2: Use Disk Management

• Lab 8.4: Use Hard Drive Utilities

Textbook, Chapter 8. Supporting Hard Drives, Essentials sections, Pages 329- 347. Homework: Read Pages 329-347 of the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics Questions 1-20. Answer Hands-on Projects 8-1 and 8-2 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 8.2 and 8.4 Answer all lab questions in class

the student will be able to: • Use Disk Management to

create, format, and delete a partition

• Evaluate hard drive utilities offered by manufacturers and test a hard drive for problems

Oct 26 Midterm over Chapters 1-8 Last day to turn in any

work from the first 8 chapters

9 Oct. 28 Nov. 3


• Describe the concepts of supporting I/O devices

• Describe characteristics of I/O devices

• Install peripheral I/O devices including the mouse, keyboard, barcode reader, fingerprint reader, and touch screen


• Gather information about hardware components in a system

• Research and select a high-end video card

• Install and test a scanner

• Chapter 9: Installing and Supporting I/O Devices, Essentials sections, Pages 393- 435.

• Lab 9.1: Gather Information on I/O Devices

• Lab 9.3: Research High-End Video Cards

• Lab 9.4: Install and Test a Scanner

Textbook, Chapter 9: Installing and Supporting I/O Devices, Essentials sections, Pages 329- 347. Homework: Read Pages 329-435 and answer Reviewing the Basics questions 1-19. Answer Thinking Critically Questions 1-3. Answer Hands-on Projects 9-2, 9-3, 9-4, 9-5, and 9-6 and Real Problems, Real Solutions 9-1 and 9-2 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 9.1, 9.3, and 9.4 Answer all lab questions in class

10 Nov. 8 to 14


• Describe the features of multimedia cards, optical storage devices, and removable storage.

• Install multimedia peripherals and input devices

• Chapter 10: Multimedia Devices and Mass Storage, Essentials sections, Pages 473- 502.

• Lab 10.2: Install a PC Video Camera

• Lab 10.3: Compare CD, DVD, and Blu-ray Technologies

• Lab 10.5: Research Digital Cameras

• Lab 10.6: Explore Windows Audio Features

Textbook, Chapter 10: Multimedia Devices and Mass Storage, Essentials sections, Pages 473- 502. Homework: Read Pages 473-502 of the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics Questions 1- 18 Answer Hands-on Projects 10-2, 10-3, 10-4, and 10-5 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 10.2, 10.3, 10.5, and 10.6


• Install a video camera and use Windows Movie Maker to test the camera

• Recognize CD, DVD, and Blu-ray specifications

• Research the features of a digital camera

• Customize Windows sounds and use third-party audio software

Answer all lab questions in class

11 Nov. 16 to 22


• Apply operational procedures to keep self, others, the equipment, and the environment safe

• Develop a preventive maintenance plan for a PC

• Describe troubleshooting theories used to solve any computer problem


• Describe how to protect self, others and the equipment when repairing a computer

• Clean a computer without damaging self or the computer

• Introduce a computer software or hardware problem, diagnose a problem introduced by others, and document the troubleshooting process.

• Chapter 11: PC Maintenance and Troubleshooting Strategies

• Lab 11.2: Learn about Safety Issues

• Lab 11.3: Safely Clean Computer Equipment

• Lab 11.4: Diagnose Simple Hardware Problems

• Lab 11.5: Troubleshoot a Hardware Problem

• Lab 11.8: Critical Thinking: Troubleshoot a Startup Problem

• Lab 11.9: Critical Thinking: Sabotage and Repair a System

Textbook, Chapter 11: PC Maintenance and Troubleshooting Strategies Homework: Read the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics and Thinking Critically questions. Answer Hands-on Projects 11-1, 11-2, 11-3, and 11-4 and Real Problems, Real Solutions 11-1 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 11.2, 11.3, 11.4, 11.5, 11.8, and 11.9 Answer all lab questions in class

12 Nov 29 Dec. 5


• Plan a Windows installation

• Install Windows Vista, Windows XP, and

• Chapter 12: Installing Windows

• Lab 12.1: Install or Upgrade to Windows 2000

• Lab 12-2: Determine Hardware Compatibility with Windows XP

Textbook, Chapter 12. Installing Windows Homework: Read the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics and Thinking Critically questions. Answer Hands-on

Windows 2000, and configure the OS


• Decide between the advantages of an upgrade or new installation for a system

• Plan the installation and install Windows 2000, Windows XP, or Windows Vista as an upgrade or clean install.

• Use the Hardware Compatibility List for Windows XP

• Explain the benefits of an unattended installation, use nLite to create an answer file for the installation, and perform the unattended installation.

• Lab 12.3: Install or Upgrade to Windows XP

• Lab 12.4: Install or Upgrade to Windows Vista

• Lab 12.6: Critical Thinking: Unattended Installation

Projects 12-1, 12-2, 12-3, 12-5, 12-6, and 12-7 questions. Answer Real Problems, Real Solutions 12-1 and 12-2 questions Lab Manual: Labs 12.1, 12.2, 12.3, 12.4, 12.6 Answer all lab questions in class

13 Dec. 7 to 13


• Set up and perform a routine preventive maintenance plan for Windows

• Prepare for disaster by keeping timely backups of user data and Windows system files


• Clean up and defragment a hard drive and scan the drive for errors

• Use Task Scheduler to schedule routine maintenance tasks

• Back up data and restore data from backups

• Add users, reset passwords, and control

• Chapter 13: Maintaining Windows, Essentials sections, Pages 603-642

• Lab 13.1: Perform Hard Drive Routine Maintenance

• Lab 13.2: Schedule Maintenance Tasks

• Lab 13.3: Back Up and Restore Files in Windows XP

• Lab 13.4: Manage User Accounts in Windows Vista/XP

• Lab 13.5: Set Disk Quotas

• Lab 13.6: Manage Virtual Memory

Textbook, Chapter 13: Maintaining Windows, Essentials sections, Pages 603-642 Homework: Read pages 603-642 in the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics Questions 1 – 22, and Thinking Critically Questions 2-3. Answer Hands-on Project 13-1, 13-2, 13-3, 13-4, and 13-5 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 13.1 through 13.6 Answer all lab questions in class

password policies • Convert a drive from

FAT to NTFS, set and monitor disk quotas, and identify when quotas have been exceeded

• Adjust virtual memory settings

14 Dec. 15 to 19


• Use Windows tools and utilities to solve problems with Windows performance


• Customize Windows Vista taskbar, Start menu, and desktop

• Use the Microsoft Management Console to create a console and then use the console

• Use Event Viewer to view, save, and compare events

• Use Task Manager to research process information

• Backup, modify, corrupt, and restore the registry

• Chapter 14: Optimizing Windows, Essentials sections, Pages 677-710

• Lab 14.1: Customize Windows Vista

• Lab 14.2: Use the Microsoft Management Console

• Lab 14.3: Analyze a System with Event Viewer

• Lab 14.4: Use Task Manager

• Lab 14.5: Edit the Registry with Regedit

Textbook, Chapter 14: Optimizing Windows, Essentials sections, Pages 677-710 Homework: Read pages 1061-1093 in the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics questions 1-19. Answer Thinking Critically Questions 1 and 2. Answer Hands-on Project 14-5, 14-6, and 14-7 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 14.1, 14.2, 14.3, 14.4, 14.5 Answer all lab questions in class

15 Dec. 17 and 19

Final Exam over chapters 9-14 Dec. 17 is the last day to turn in any work for chapters 9 to 14

PC Repair Practical Application Course Week Content References 1 Jan. 9 to 13


• Use Windows tools to solve problems caused by hardware, applications,

• Chapter 15: Tools for Solving Windows Problems

• Lab 15.1: Use Windows Help and Troubleshooters

• Lab 15.2: Restore the System State

Textbook, Chapter 15: Tools for Solving Windows Problems Homework: Read the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics and Thinking

and failed Windows components

• Use Vista tools to solve problems when starting Vista

• Use Windows 2000/XP tools to solve problems when starting Windows 2000/XP


• Search Windows Help and use Windows Troubleshooter

• Use System Restore to return the system to a previous restore point

• Update drivers using Device Manager

• Copy files to a removable media while using the Recovery Console

• Repair a Vista installation using Windows RE

• Lab 15.3: Update Drivers with Device Manager

• Lab 15.5: Use the XP Recovery Console to Copy Files

• Lab 15.6: Use the Vista Recovery Environment (Windows RE) to Repair Windows

Critically questions. Answer Hands-on Projects 15-1, 15-2, 15-3, 15-4, 15-5, and 15-6 questions. Answer Real Problems, Real Solutions 15-1 questions Lab Manual: Labs 15.1, 15.2, 15.3, 15.5, 15.6 Answer all lab questions in class

2 Jan 18 to 24


• Describe hardware devices used for networking

• Describe the different types of networks

• Explain the networking protocols and standards used by Windows

• Connect a PC to an existing network

• Troubleshoot a network connection


• Install a network card and drivers and perform a loopback test

• Test a patch cable and crossover cable and identify pinouts

• Research wired and

• Welcome • Class Introductions • Review Goals &

Objectives of Class, Syllabus, Lecture/Lab Format

• Point out the A+ 2009 Essentials 2009 grid and the A+ Practical Application 2009 grid at the beginning of the book. Also point out the green Essentials and blue Practical Application A+ mapping within the chapters.

• Point out in the front of the book the diagram that explains chapter organization to cover the A+ Essentials and A+ Practical Application objectives.

• Chapter 17: Networking Essentials

Textbook, Chapter 17: Networking Essentials Homework: Read the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics and Thinking Critically questions. Answer Hands-on Projects 17-1, 17-2, 17-3, and 17-4 questions. Answer Real Problems, Real Solutions 17-1 questions Lab Manual: Labs 17.1, 17.2, 17.3, and 17.5 Answer all lab questions in class

wireless standards and identify best options for a home LAN

• Share resources on a network and connect to these resources

• Lab 17.1: Connect Two Computers

• Lab 17.2: Inspect Cables • Lab 17.3: Compare

Options for a Home LAN • Lab 17.5: Share Resources

on a Network 3 Jan 26 to Feb. 1


• Understand the importance of complying with established security policies

• Identify ways to authenticate and classify users and data

• Describe additional methods to protect resources

• Describe methods used to monitor and maintain security measures that have been implemented


• Use Windows tools and BIOS setup to log and monitor events

• Use Vista Event Viewer to track filed login attempts and changes to files and folders

• Configure and use Windows Firewall and Windows Defender and unhide file extensions

• Share a folder on the network and control which users and read and modify the folder

• Chapter 19, Security Essentials

• Lab 19.1: Audit Computer and Network Activity in XP

• Lab 19.2: Monitor Security Events in Vista

• Lab 19.3: Research PC Security

• Lab 19.4: Secure a Private Folder

Textbook, Chapter 19, Security Essentials Homework: Read the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics and Thinking Critically questions. Answer Hands-on Projects 19-1, 19-3, 19-4 and 19-5 questions, and answer Real Problems, Real Solutions 19-1 and 19-2 questions Lab Manual: Labs 19.1, 19.2, 19.3, and 19.4 Answer all lab questions in class

4 Feb. 3 to 9

Chapter 21, Essentials content Upon completion of the Essentials content of this chapter, the student will be able to:

• Explain the special considerations when supporting notebooks and

• Chapter 21: Supporting Notebooks, Essentials sections, Pages 1093-1128

• Lab 21.1: Examine Notebook Documentation

• Lab 21.2: Compare Notebooks and Desktops

• Lab 21.3: Manage Power

Textbook, Chapter 21: Supporting Notebooks, Essentials sections, Pages 1093-1128 Homework: Read pages 1093 - 1128 of the chapter and answer Reviewing the

different from supporting desktop computers

• Install, configure, optimize and troubleshoot peripheral devices used with notebooks


• Locate and download notebook documentation and use it to find critical information about the notebook

• Research and compare prices of a desktop and notebook computer with similar specifications

• Manage power saving options and troubleshoot power problems

• Change display settings on a notebook, use an external monitor, and communicate with difficult customers

• Research and use diagnostic software on a notebook and research replacing a notebook part

Saving Options • Lab 21.4: Use Notebook

Display Options • Lab 21.5: Use Notebook

Diagnostic Software

Basics questions 1-16. Answer Thinking Critically Questions 1 and 2. Answer Hands-on Project 21-1 and 21-2 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 21.1, 21.2, 21.3, 21.4, and 21.5 Answer all lab questions in class

5 Feb. 13 to 21

Chapter 22 Essentials Upon completion of the Essentials content of this chapter, the student will be able to:

• Describe printer types and features

• Install printers and share a printer on the network

• Manage Windows print jobs and install printer consumables


• Install and share a local printer and use that printer from another computer on the network

• Install a network printer and test the printer on the

• Chapter 22: Supporting Printers, Essentials sections, Pages 1161-1191

• Lab 22.1: Install and Share a Local Printer

• Lab 22.2: Install a Network Printer

• Lab 22.3: Update Printer Drivers

Textbook, Chapter 21: Supporting Notebooks, Essentials sections, Pages 1161-1191 Homework: Read pages 1161 - 1191 of the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics questions 1-13. Answer Thinking Critically Questions 1 and 2. Answer Hands-on Project 22-2 and 22-3 questions. Answer questions for Real Problems, Real Solutions 22-1. Lab Manual: Labs 22.1, 22.2, and 22.3 Answer all lab questions in class

network • Identify printer driver

information and download, install, and test newer drivers

Essentials content ends here and

Practical Application content begins

Students are encouraged to take the A+ 220-701 exam. There is an A+ testing center at Parkway North High School

6 Feb. 23 to 29

Chapter 4, Practical Application sections Upon completion of the Practical Application section of this chapter, the student will be able to:

• Take a computer apart and put it back together

• Troubleshoot electrical problems


• Take a computer apart, recognize components, and put a system back together

• Use a multimeter to measure voltage provided by a power supply

• Upgrade a power supply

• A+ Practical Application sections of Chapter 4: Form Factors, Power Supplies, and Working Inside a Computer, Page 144 through end of chapter.

• Lab 4.2: Take a Computer Apart and Put it Back Together

• Lab 4.3: Measure the Output of Your Power Supply

• Lab 4.6: Upgrade a Power Supply

Textbook, Chapter 4, Practical Application sections. Form Factors, Power Supplies, and Working Inside a Computer, Practical Application sections beginning on Page 144 through end of chapter. Homework: Read the chapter beginning with page 144 and answer Reviewing the Basics questions 31 – 33. Answer Hands-on Projects 4-1 questions and Real Problems, Real Solutions 4-1 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 4.2, 4.3, and 4.6 Answer all lab questions in class

7 Mar 2 to 8

Chapter 5, Practical Application sections Chapter 6, Practical Application sections Upon completion of the Practical Application sections of these chapters, the student will be able to:

• Install, configure, and maintain a motherboard

• Install and upgrade a processor

• Troubleshoot problems with processors, motherboards, and

• Chapter 5: All About Motherboards, Practical Application sections, Pages 210 through end of chapter.

• Chapter 6: Supporting Processors, Practical Application sections, Pages 256 through the end of chapter.

• Lab 5-4: Identify a Motherboard and Find Documentation and Drivers on the Internet

• Lab 5.5: Remove and Replace a Motherboard

Textbook, Chapter 5, Practical Application sections. All About Motherboards, Page 210 through end of chapter. Homework: Read Pages 210 through end of the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics Questions 24-25, and Thinking Critically Questions 5-6. Answer Hands-on Projects 5-1, 5-3, and 5-6, and Real Problems, Real Solutions 5-1 questions.

overheating Upon completion of these labs, the student will be able to:

• Open a case, identify a motherboard brand and model number, and search the Internet for motherboard documentation for this particular board

• Remove, replace, and configure a motherboard

• Flash BIOS • Remove and replace a

CPU

• Lab 5.6: Flash BIOS • Lab 6-1: Remove and

Replace a CPU

Textbook, Chapter 6, Practical Application sections. Supporting Processors, Page 256 through end of chapter. Homework: Read Pages 256 through end of the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics Questions 19-20, and Thinking Critically Question 3. Answer Hands-on Projects 6-5, and Real Problems, Real Solutions 6-1 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, and 6.1 Answer all lab questions in class

Mar 12

Catch up day

Mar 14

MidTerm Exam over weeks 1 to 8

•

8 Mar 26 to 30


• Upgrade memory • Troubleshoot problems

with memory • Select and install a hard

drive • Troubleshoot problems

with hard drives Upon completion of these labs, the student will be able to:

• Research memory needed for an upgrade and upgrade memory

• Identify faulty memory symptoms and test RAM

• Install a second hard drive in a system

• Chapter 7: Upgrading Memory, Practical Application sections, Pages 307 to end of chapter.

• Chapter 8: Supporting Hard Drives, Practical Application sections, Pages 347 to end of chapter.

• • Lab 7.3: Upgrade RAM • Lab 7.5: Troubleshoot

Memory Problems • Lab 8-3: Install a Second

Hard Drive • Lab 8-5: Troubleshoot

Hard Drives • Lab 8-7: Critical

Thinking: Troubleshoot and Repair a Hard Drive

Textbook, Chapter 7: Upgrading Memory, Practical Application sections, Pages 307 to end of chapter. Homework: Read Pages 307 to end of chapter and answer Thinking Critically Questions 4-5. Answer Hands-on Projects 7-3, 7-4, and 7-6 and Real Problems, Real Solutions 7-1 questions. Textbook, Chapter 8. Supporting Hard Drives, Practical Application sections, Pages 347 to end of chapter. Homework: Read Pages 347 to the end of the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics Questions 21-25, and Thinking Critically questions. Answer Hands-on Projects 8-3, 8-4, and 8-6 and Real

• Simulate hard drive problems, diagnose and repair problems, and document the troubleshooting process

Problems, Real Solutions 8-1 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 7.3, 7.5, 8-3, 8-5, and 8-7 Answer all lab questions in class

9 Apr. 12 to 18


• Install and configure I/O devices including internal components

• Troubleshoot problems with I/O devices

• Install and configure multimedia and mass storage devices

• Troubleshoot problems with multimedia and mass storage devices


• Use Device Manager to investigate and solve problems with hardware

• Troubleshoot and solve problems with the video subsystem

• Install a sound card and drivers and test the card

• Install a second display adapter and configure the system for dual monitors

• Chapter 9: Installing and Supporting I/O Devices, Practical Application sections, Pages 435 to end of chapter.

• Chapter 10: Multimedia Devices and Mass Storage, Practical Application sections, Pages 502 to end of chapter.

• Lab 9.2: Identify Hardware Conflicts using Device Manager

• Lab 9.5: Critical Thinking: Troubleshoot Video Problems

• Lab 10.1: Install a Sound Card

• Lab10.4: Install Dual Displays in Windows

Textbook, Chapter 10: Multimedia Devices and Mass Storage, Practical Application sections, Pages 502 to end of chapter. Homework: Read Pages 502 through the end of the chapter, and answer Reviewing the Basics Questions 19 and 20. Answer all Thinking Critically questions. Answer Hands-on Projects 10-1 questions. Textbook, Chapter 10: Installing and Supporting I/O Devices, Practical Application sections, Pages 435 to end of chapter. Homework: Read Pages 435 through the end of the chapter, and answer Reviewing the Basics Questions 20-25. Answer Thinking Critically Question 4. Answer Hands-on Projects 10-1 questions and Real Problems, Real Solutions 10-1 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 9.2, 9.5, 10.1, and 10.4 Answer all lab questions in class

10 Apr 23 to 25

Chapter 13, Practical Application sections Chapter 14, Practical Application sections Upon completion of the Practical Application sections of these chapters, the student will be able

• Chapter 13: Maintaining Windows, Practical Application sections, Pages 642 to end of chapter

• Chapter 14: Optimizing Windows, Practical

Textbook, Chapter 13: Maintaining Windows, Practical Application sections, Pages 642 to end of chapter Homework: Read the chapter beginning with page 642 to

to: • Identify the directory

structures used by Windows for system files and user data

• Use Windows utilities to manage a hard drive

• Optimize Windows to improve performance


• Use various commands at the command prompt to manage files and folders

• Use the Xcopy and Robocopy commands

• Use Windows tools to identify processes slowing down Windows, clean up startup, and configure the system to stay optimized

Application sections, Pages 710 to end of chapter

• Lab 13.7: Learn to Work from the Command Line

• Lab 13.8: Use the Xcopy and Robocopy Commands

• Lab 14.6: Critical Thinking: Use Windows Utilities to Speed Up a System

(Note the first heading, How Printers and Scanners Work, was covered in the Essentials semester.) Note: Students are encouraged to take the A+ Essentials 2009 exam during the next two weeks.

the end of the chapter. Answer Reviewing the Basics questions 20-30. Answer Thinking Critically Question 1. Answer Real Problems, Real Solutions 13-1, 13-2, and 13-3 questions. Textbook, Chapter 14: Optimizing Windows, Practical Application sections, Pages 710 to end of chapter Homework: Read the chapter beginning with page 710 to the end of the chapter. Answer Reviewing the Basics questions 23-33. Answer Thinking Critically Questions 3-5. Answer questions for Hands-on Projects 14-1, 14-2, 14-3, 14-4 questions. Answer Real Problems, Real Solutions 14-1 and 14-2 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 13.7, 13.8, and 14.6 Answer all lab questions in class

11 Apl 27 to May 1


• Know what to do when a hardware device, application, or Windows component gives problems

• Know what to do when Windows Vista won’t boot or starts with errors

• Know what to do when Windows 2000/XP won’t boot or starts with errors


• Research problems with Windows installations,

• Chapter 16, Fixing Windows Problems

• Lab 16.1: Troubleshoot Failed Windows Installations

• Lab 16.2: Recover Data from a Computer That Will Not Boot

• Lab 16.3: Finding a Driver for an Unknown Device

• Lab 16.5: Critical Thinking: Sabotage and Repair Windows XP

• Lab 16.6: Critical Thinking: Sabotage and Repair Windows Vista

Textbook, Chapter 16, Fixing Windows Problems Homework: Read the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics and Thinking Critically questions. Answer Hands-on Projects 16-1, 16-2, 16-3, 16-4, and 16-5 questions, and answer Real Problems, Real Solutions 16-1 questions Lab Manual: Labs 16.1, 16.2, 16.3, 16.5, and 16.6 Answer all lab questions in class

transfer user data and preferences, modify an answer file, and share an external drive with a PC and a MAC.

• Copy data from a non-booting computer and use data recovery software

• Use third-party software to identify an unknown device and use the Internet to find and download a driver

• Sabotage a system and troubleshoot and repair a Windows XP or Vista system that is not working

12 May3 to 7


• Connect a computer or small network to the Internet using a broadband, satellite, or dial-up connection

• Set up a SOHO wired or wireless network

• Use tools and utilities to solve networking problems

• Troubleshoot network connections and problems with client applications


• Use FTP commands to download a browser via FTP

• Configure and use Remote Access Service for a dial-up connection

• Configure and use Remote Desktop

• Configure and use a wireless router to connect to the Internet

• Troubleshoot a network connection using the

• Chapter 18: Networking Practices

• Lab 18.2: Use FTP to Download a Browser

• Lab 18.3: Configure and Use Remote Access Service

• Lab 18.4: Use Remote Desktop

• Lab 18.6: Set up a Wireless Router

• Lab 18.7: Troubleshoot TCP/IP Utilities

• Lab 18.8: Solve Network Connectivity Problems

Textbook, Chapter 18: Networking Practices Homework: Read the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics and Thinking Critically questions. Answer questions for Hands-on Projects 18-1, 18-2, and 18-4 questions. Answer Real Problems, Real Solutions 18-1 and 18-2 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 18.2, 18.3, 18.4, 18.6, 18.7, and 18.8 Answer all lab questions in class

Ipconfig, Ping, and Tracert utilities

• Solve network connectivity problems and document the process

13 May 9


• Protect against and remove malware from a system

• Implement security using Windows

• Use BIOS security features


• Install AV software and scan the system

• Encrypt a folder and use a different user account to access a file in the folder

• Use a router manual to explain how to implement security on a wireless LAN

• Identify all startup processes on a computer and use the Internet to research these processes

• Download, install and run anti-rootkit software to scan for rootkits

• Chapter 20: Security Practices

• Lab 20.1: Protect Your Computer from Viruses and Adware

• Lab 20.2: Use Encryption • Lab 20.3: Secure a

Wireless LAN • Lab 20.4: Investigate

Startup Processes • Lab 20.5: Deal with a

Rootkit

Textbook, Chapter 20: Security Practices Homework: Read the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics and Thinking Critically questions. Answer questions for Hands-on Projects 20-1, 20-2, 20-3, and 20-5 questions. Answer Real Problems, Real Solutions 20-1 and 20-2 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 20.1, 20.2, 20.3, 20.4, and 20.5 Answer all lab questions in class

14 May 11


• Troubleshoot, upgrade, and replace internal notebook components

• Perform routine printer maintenance tasks

• Chapter 21: Supporting Notebooks, Practical Application sections, Pages 1128 to end of chapter

• Chapter 22: Supporting Printers, Practical Application sections, Pages 1191 to end of chapter

• Lab 21.6: Replace a Notebook Hard Drive

• Lab 21.7: Critical

Textbook, Chapter 21: Supporting Notebooks, Practical Application sections, Pages 1128 to end of chapter Homework: Read pages 1128 through the end of the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics questions 17-20. Answer Thinking Critically Question 3. Answer Hands-on Project 21-3, 21-4, 21-5 questions. Answer questions

• Troubleshoot problems with printers


• Remove and replace a notebook hard drive

• Identify hardware problems with LCD components and replace these components

• Research printer maintenance information on the Internet and solve common printer problems

• Introduce a problem with a printer, and solve printer problems introduced by others

Thinking: Replace a Notebook LCD Panel

• Lab 22.4: Maintain and Troubleshoot a Printer

• Lab 22.5: Critical Thinking: Sabotage and Repair a Network Printer

Note: Students are encouraged to take the A+ Practical Application exam during the next two weeks.

for Real Problems, Real Solutions 21-1, 21-2, and 21-3. Textbook, Chapter 22: Supporting Printers, Practical Application sections, Pages 1191 to end of chapter Homework: Read pages 1128 through the end of the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics questions 14-20. Answer Thinking Critically Question 3. Answer Hands-on Project 22-1 and 22-4 questions. Lab Manual: Labs 21.6, 21.7, 22.4, and 22.5 Answer all lab questions in class

15 May 15 to 23

Finish up and testing May 23 is the last day to turn in any work from Weeks 9 to 14. The final exam is on either May 25 or May 27 and will be comprehensive over the entire course of study for both semesters.

Documents

Syllabus – A+ Computer Maintenance - Parkway … · 111-143 of the chapter and answer Reviewing the Basics, Questions 1- 30 and Thinking Critically Answer Hands-on ... Chapter 6,