Lesson Plans A+ Practical Application

Lesson Plans A+ Practical Application (Exam 220-702) Version 8.0

Table of Contents Course Overview... 3 Section 0.1: Course Introduction... 5 Section 0.2: Using the Simulator... 6 Section 1.1: Safety... 7 Section 1.2: PC Tools... 8 Section 1.3: System Tools... 10 Section 1.4: Users and Groups... 12 Section 2.1: BIOS... 14 Section 2.2: Power Supplies... 16 Section 2.3: Motherboards... 18 Section 2.4: Processors... 20 Section 2.5: Memory... 22 Section 2.6: Expansion Cards... 24 Section 2.7: Video... 26 Section 2.8: Audio... 29 Section 2.9: Cooling... 31 Section 2.10: Peripheral Devices... 33 Section 2.11: Notebook Components... 36 Section 3.1: Floppy... 38 Section 3.2: Parallel ATA (IDE)... 40 Section 3.3: Serial ATA... 42 Section 3.4: Optical Devices... 44 Section 3.5: Storage Solutions... 46 Section 4.1: File System... 48 Section 4.2: Partitions and Disks... 50 Section 4.3: Adding Storage... 52 Section 4.4: RAID... 54 Section 4.5: Disk Status... 56 Section 4.6: Disk Optimization... 58 Section 5.1: File Locations... 60 Section 5.2: Managing Files... 61 Section 5.3: NTFS Permissions... 63 Section 5.4: Shared Folders... 65 Section 5.5: Offline Files... 67 Section 6.1: Ethernet... 68 Section 6.2: IP Configuration... 70 Section 6.3: Wireless Networking... 72 Section 6.4: Internet Connectivity... 74 Section 6.5: SOHO Configuration... 76 Section 6.6: Bluetooth... 79 Section 6.7: E-mail... 81 Section 6.8: File Transfer Protocol (FTP)... 83 Section 6.9: Network Utilities... 85 Section 6.10: Troubleshooting... 87 1

Section 7.1: Authentication... 89 Section 7.2: Firewalls... 91 Section 7.3: Proxy Server... 93 Section 7.4: Malware Protection... 95 Section 7.5: BIOS Security... 97 Section 7.6: Encryption... 99 Section 8.1: Preferences and Settings... 101 Section 8.2: Performance Monitoring... 103 Section 8.3: Remote Services... 105 Section 8.4: System Protection... 107 Section 9.1: Devices... 109 Section 9.2: Applications... 111 Section 9.3: Printing... 113 Section 9.4: System Startup... 116 Section 9.5: Startup Errors... 118 Section 9.6: System Recovery... 120 Practice Exams... 122 2

Course Overview This course prepares students for CompTIA s Exam 220-702: A+ Practical Application. It focuses on installing, configuring and troubleshooting hardware. Module 0 Introduction This module introduces the students to the A+ Practical Application course, the A+ certification exams, the basic skills a student should have before taking this course, and the content of the A+ Practical Application course. Students will learn how to use the simulator to complete the lab exercises. Module 1 PC Technician This module examines the basics of being a PC technician; personal safety, tools used for computer repair and maintenance, Windows system tools and utilities used to troubleshoot and resolve problems, and the role of user and group accounts when implementing security. Module 2 System Components In this module students will learn concepts about the components that make up computer systems. They will learn about the BIOS, power supplies, motherboards, processors, memory, expansion cards, video cards, audio cards, cooling systems, peripheral devices, and notebook components. Module 3 Storage Devices This module teaches the students about the following storage devices: floppy drives, PATA devices, Serial ATA devices, and optical devices. Students will also learn about selecting storage solutions and installing storage devices. Module 4 Disk Management This module discusses concepts about the storage of digital data. Students will become familiar with file systems, partitions and disks, strategies for adding storage space to existing volumes, and using RAID arrays. They will also learn how to use Disk Management to identify and correct the disk status and concepts to optimize hard disk performance. Module 5 File Management This module examines the fundamentals of file management. Students will become familiar with the file types for different operating systems, commands used to mange files, NTFS permissions, shared folders, and offline files. Module 6 Networking In this module students will learn concepts about networking; components of an Ethernet network, configuration settings required to connect to a TCP/IP network, configuring a wireless network, configuring Internet connectivity, configuring a SOHO network, and connecting to Bluetooth. Details will be presented about using e-mail, using the File 3

Transfer Protocol (FTP) to transfer files, using network utilities to troubleshoot network problems, and troubleshooting network communications. Module 7 Security This module discusses the basics of securing a computer system; using authentication to validate the identity of a user, using firewalls to control traffic, using proxy servers to control Internet access, protecting against malware, configuring BIOS security, and using encryption to protect files. Module 8 System Management In this module students will learn the basics of managing a system. They will learn about customizing Windows for individual needs, monitoring performance, implementing remote services, and protecting the system in the event of a hardware or system failure. Module 9 Troubleshooting This module discusses the following troubleshooting concepts; problems with devices, managing applications, managing and maintaining printers, resolving startup errors, and procedures for system recovery. Practice Exams In Practice Exams students will have the opportunity to test themselves and verify that they understand the concepts and are ready to take the certification exam. 4

Section 0.1: Course Introduction Summary The A+ certification is an entry-level certification. You should have a basic understanding of computers, including the following skills, before taking this course. Installing and running programs. Using basic productivity software including word processing applications. Saving files created by common applications. Browsing the Internet. The A+ certification has been updated for 2009. To obtain the certification, you must pass two exams: The A+ Essentials exam (220-701) covers basic operating system and hardware concepts. The A+ Practical Application exam (220-702) covers details on installing and troubleshooting hardware and configuring devices for use by the operating system. This course covers content for the A+ Practical Application exam. You should study the material in the Essentials course before taking this course. If possible, we recommend that you study for both exams before taking either exam. In addition to covering everything you need to know for the A+ Practical Application exam, this course has been designed to help you: Install and upgrade internal computer and laptop components. Troubleshoot computer components. Install, partition, and format hard disk storage. Configure a small office/home office (SOHO) network. Configure system security settings. Troubleshoot system startup. Back up and recover a computer and user data. Video/Demo Total About 5 minutes 0.1.1 Course Introduction 1:36 5

Section 0.2: Using the Simulator Summary This section introduces the student to the TestOut simulator, which is used in the lab exercises throughout the course. Students will become familiar with the: Scenario Bench Shelf Selected Component Details Processes to complete labs. Elements of the Score Report. After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Read simulated component documentation and view components to make appropriate choices to meet the scenario. Add simulated computer components to the Bench. Change views and zoom in on objects on the Bench. Attach simulated cables. Use the simulation interface to identify where simulated cables connect to the computer. Use the simulated Windows desktop to complete software configuration tasks. Video/Demo Lab/Activity 0.2.1 Using the Simulator 12:01 0.2.3 Working with Internal Components 10:21 Explore the Lab Interface Connect Internal Components Total About 30 minutes 6

Section 1.1: Safety Summary This section discusses the basic elements of personal safety when working with computers. Concepts covered include: Protecting against electrical shock and burns Implementing building safety Lifting heavy objects Handling procedures for dangerous materials Ensuring the safety of people Cautions to be aware of while working with: o Monitors o Components of a CPU o Power supply o Batteries o Fiber optic networking cables Lecture Focus Questions: How would you protect yourself from electrical charges when working with computer hardware? What is the MSDS? When would the information it provides be important? Which types of computer components should you not use a grounding strap when working with them? Why? Which computer components can be hot? Why should you replace faulty power supplies instead of trying to repair them? What is the proper way to lift heavy objects? Video/Demo Total About 15 minutes 1.1.1 Personal Safety 6:00 7

Section 1.2: PC Tools Summary In this section students will learn about PC tools. Concepts covered include: Devices and components used for computer repair and maintenance: o Combination ratchet/screwdriver o IC insertion/extraction tool o Anti-static pad/wrist strap o Extension magnet o Multimeter o Power supply tester o Cable tester o Loopback plug o Known good spares The threat of electrostatic discharge (ESD) o Measures to protect against ESD After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Use an anti-static mat and strap to protect against ESD. Implement appropriate grounding procedures. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.4 Given a scenario, select and use the following tools o Multimeter o Power supply tester o Specialty hardware / tools o Cable testers o Loop back plugs o Anti-static pad and wrist strap o Extension magnet Lecture Focus Questions: When working with computer hardware, what is the advantage of having a ratcheting handle on a screwdriver? What is a good tool to use to retrieve a screw that has fallen into a computer case? What types of electrical properties can a multimeter measure? How is a power supply tester used to test the output from a PC power supply? How does a loopback plug verify that a device can both send and receive signals? How can ESD damage computer components? What measures should you take to protect hardware against ESD damage? 8

When a wrist strap is unavailable, how can you still protect the computer from ESD while working in it? Video/Demo About 20 minutes 1.2.1 PC Toolkit 3:17 1.2.3 Protecting Against ESD 4:53 Number of Exam Questions 13 questions 9

Section 1.3: System Tools Summary This section examines the following Windows system tools and utilities: Task Manager Computer Management Device Manager Event Viewer Services Performance Monitor Reliability Monitor System Information (Msinfo32) System Configuration Utility (Msconfig) After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Use system tools to view current performance statistics. Use system tools to view configuration information for your computer. Use prebuilt and custom management consoles to manage your computer. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 2.1 Select the appropriate commands and options to troubleshoot and resolve problems o MSCONFIG 2.3 Given a scenario, select and use system utilities / tools and evaluate the results o System monitor o Administrative tools Event Viewer Computer Management Services Performance Monitor o Task Manager Process list Resource usage Process priority Termination o System Information Lecture Focus Questions: How can the System Configuration Utility help in troubleshooting? What functions does Device Manager provide for troubleshooting problems? 10

What are the three types of events you might see in Event Viewer? Which tool lets you view running processes and current memory use? When would you use a data collector set in Performance Monitor? Video/Demo 1.3.1 Using Task Manager 3:54 1.3.2 Using Management Consoles 5:31 1.3.3 Viewing System Configuration Information 7:48 Number of Exam Questions 4 questions Total About 25 minutes 11

Section 1.4: Users and Groups Summary This section provides information about users and groups. Concepts covered include: The role of user accounts The role of built-in users o Administrator o Guest The role of groups Windows locations for users and groups: o Local accounts o Domain accounts Default groups: o Administrators o Backup Operators o Power Users o Users o Guests The role of the User Account Control (UAC) After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Create limited and administrator users. Create groups and modify group membership. Supply credentials at the UAC prompt. Enable or disable UAC prompts. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 4.2 Implement security and troubleshoot common issues o Operating systems Local users and groups: Administrator, Power Users, Guest, Users Vista User Access Control (UAC) User authentication Lecture Focus Questions: What is the difference between a right and a permission? How can groups simplify security administration? How are the rights assigned to the Power User group different than the rights assigned to the Administrator group? What is the purpose of the Backup Operators group? 12

On Windows Vista/7, a user must be a member of which group to install applications and add new device drivers? What is the purpose of the User Account Control (UAC)? When would you receive a prompt for credentials? How does that differ from the prompt for consent? Video/Demo 1.4.1 Users and Groups 9:44 1.4.2 Managing Users and Groups 6:18 1.4.5 Managing UAC Settings 6:19 Lab/Activity Manage Users and Groups Number of Exam Questions 7 questions Total About 35 minutes 13

Section 2.1: BIOS Summary This section discusses editing the BIOS to control the startup process. Concepts covered include: The role of the CMOS chip. Accessing the CMOS editor. The reasons for editing the CMOS settings. Updating the BIOS program. After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Given a system, use the correct key sequence to enter the CMOS editor. View and modify common BIOS settings. Clear CMOS settings, for example to start a computer or edit the BIOS when passwords are forgotten. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Motherboards Advanced BIOS settings 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Motherboards Advanced BIOS settings 4.2 Implement security and troubleshoot common issues o System BIOS security Passwords Lecture Focus Questions: What is the role of CMOS? How does it differ from the BIOS? Why does the CMOS require a battery? What determines the keystroke to open a CMOS editor? How can you find this information? Why might you need to update the BIOS? 14

Video/Demo Lab/Activity 2.1.1 Editing the BIOS 3:31 Find BIOS Settings Clear CMOS Settings Number of Exam Questions 6 questions Total About 15 minutes 15

Section 2.2: Power Supplies Summary This section examines details about power supplies. Concepts covered include: The role of a power supply Voltage requirements for different regions o 110 volts in the United States o 220 volts in many parts of Europe Power supplies provide 3.3, 5, and 12 volts Power supplies are rated in watts Calculating a system s wattage requirement Selecting the correct power supply Symptoms of a bad power supply Measuring the voltage on internal connectors Common power supply connector types: o 20-pin o 24-pin (20+4) o 8-pin EPS + 12 volt o 6-pin PCI Express o 8-pin PCI Express o 4-pin accessory power o SATA power cable o 4-pin mini-molex After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Use a volt meter or power supply tester to verify the voltage output of power supply connectors. Replace the power supply. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Power supplies Wattages and capacity Connector types and quantity Output voltage 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Power supplies Wattages and capacity 16

Connector types and quantity Output voltage 1.4 Given a scenario, select and use the following tools o Multimeter o Power supply tester Lecture Focus Questions: What units are used to measure the amount of power required by a computer system? How do you determine what size of power supply is required for a specified computer? What are common symptoms of power supply problems? Why shouldn't you attempt to open or repair a failed power supply? Where are the differences usually found between a standard ATX and a proprietary power supply? Video/Demo Lab/Activity 2.2.1 Identifying Power Supply Components 8:49 2.2.2 Changing the Power Supply 9:40 Replace a Power Supply Number of Exam Questions 7 questions Total About 30 minutes 17

Section 2.3: Motherboards Summary This section discusses the process to successfully install a motherboard. Concepts covered include: Selecting a motherboard Documenting BIOS settings Components to install on the motherboard before placing it in the system case The component to install into the case before installing the motherboard into the system case Installing the motherboard Connecting the power and accessory cables Configuring the CMOS Connecting drives Installing additional devices in bus slots Connecting devices to motherboard header pins Documenting the new settings of the motherboard After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Select and install a motherboard that supports the customer requirements. Configure motherboard settings with software and/or jumpers. Add cables and devices to motherboard headers. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Motherboards Jumper settings Advanced BIOS settings Bus speeds Chipsets Socket types Expansion slots Memory slots Front panel connectors I/O ports Sound, video, USB 1.1, USB 2.0, serial, IEEE 1394 / Firewire, parallel, NIC, modem, PS/2) o Cooling systems Case fans 18

1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Motherboards Jumper settings Advanced BIOS settings Bus speeds Chipsets Socket types Expansion slots Memory slots Front panel connectors I/O ports Sound, video, USB 1.1, USB 2.0, serial, IEEE 1394 / Firewire, parallel, NIC, modem, PS/2) o Cooling systems Case fans Lecture Focus Questions: Why is it a good practice to document the current BIOS settings before replacing an existing motherboard? Which computer components should be installed in the system case before the motherboard? What is the function of the riser screws? When installing a new motherboard, what sources would you use to identify the location for the power switch, hard disk activity light, and other accessory cables? When selecting a motherboard, how can you make sure the motherboard and system case will work together? Video/Demo Lab/Activity 2.3.1 Installing a Motherboard 14:40 Choose and Install a Motherboard Number of Exam Questions 5 questions Total About 30 minutes 19

Section 2.4: Processors Summary In this section students will explore basics about processors. Details about the following concepts will be covered: Installing a CPU Troubleshooting a processor After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Identify the processors that are supported by a given motherboard. Install the processor on the motherboard. Install a CPU heatsink and fan. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Processors Socket types Speed Number of cores Power consumption Cache Front side bus 32bit vs. 64bit o Cooling systems Heat sinks Thermal compound CPU fans 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Processors Socket types Speed Number of cores Power consumption Cache Front side bus 32bit vs. 64bit o Cooling systems Heat sinks Thermal compound CPU fans 20

Lecture Focus Questions: How does the CPU socket determine which CPU could be installed in a specified computer? How do you determine the placement of the CPU on the socket? What special installation considerations are there when installing a single CPU in a multi-processor system? What methods are used to dissipate CPU generated heat? Why is thermal grease important when installing a processor? What are the advantages of overclocking? Disadvantages? Video/Demo Lab/Activity 2.4.1 Installing a Processor 5:02 2.4.5 Processor Troubleshooting 10:13 Select and Install a Processor 1 Select and Install a Processor 2 Troubleshoot Processor Installation 1 Troubleshoot Processor Installation 2 Number of Exam Questions 12 questions Total About 45 minutes 21

Section 2.5: Memory Summary This section discusses the details about memory in PC systems. Concepts covered include: Types of memory: o SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic RAM) o RDRAM (Rambus DRAM) o DDR (Double-Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic RAM) o DDR-2 o DDR-3 o 144-pin SODIMM o 200-pin SODIMM Considerations when selecting memory to install Considerations when installing memory Common signs that a computer needs additional memory Memory problems and descriptions Critical times when memory problems manifest themselves After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Select memory according to system requirements. Install memory as single modules or in a dual channel configuration. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Memory o Cooling systems Heat sinks 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Memory o Cooling systems Heat sinks Lecture Focus Questions: What are the most important things to consider when selecting memory? When installing memory, how do you determine which slots to fill first? 22

Besides counting the number of pins, how can you tell the difference between SDRAM and DDR modules? How can you tell the difference between DDR and DDR-2 modules? What should you do to empty DDR2 slots? Empty RAMBUS slots? What is the function of the SPD chip on a memory module? What special considerations should you following when using a dual channel memory configuration? Video/Demo 2.5.1 Memory Forms 8:20 2.5.3 Installing Memory 5:00 2.5.8 Memory Troubleshooting 9:29 2.5.9 Testing Memory 5:39 Lab/Activity Select Memory by Sight Install RDRAM Memory Install Dual Channel Memory Troubleshoot Memory Number of Exam Questions 14 questions Total About 60 minutes 23

Section 2.6: Expansion Cards Summary This section examines the basics of expansion cards. Concepts covered include: Common expansion buses in a PC system: o Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) o Mini-PCI o Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCle) o Accelerated Graphic Port (AGP) o Audio Model Riser (AMR) o Communications Network Riser (CNR) After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Identify expansion buses and cards by sight. Install an expansion card. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Adapter cards 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Adapter cards Lecture Focus Questions: What is an advantage of the PCIe bus over the PCI bus? Which type of devices typically use mini-pci cards? Which buses are commonly used by graphics cards? What type of slot can a PCIe x1 card be placed in? How are cards added to an AMR slot? Video/Demo 2.6.1 Expansion Buses and Slots 3:36 2.6.2 Installing an Expansion Card 5:29 24

Lab/Activity Install Expansion Cards Number of Exam Questions 2 questions Total About 20 minutes 25

Section 2.7: Video Summary In this section students will learn about installing, configuring and troubleshooting video adapter cards. Concepts covered include: Considerations when installing video cards Video interfaces: o D-sub o DVI-A o DVI-D o DVI-I o DMS-59 o Composite video o S-video o HDTV o HDMI o DisplayPort o Cable TV (F-type) Settings that can be configured: o Resolution o Color depth o Monitor relationship o Refresh rate o Hardware acceleration o Color management Common video problems: o Colors not correct, colors not smooth o Blurry images, strange color tints o Image doesn t fill the screen, image skewed, image cut off o Program or system lockup, system crashes, slow video performance o Screen flickers or appears wavy, user reports headaches o Scrambled or distorted images, blank screen, high-pitched tone o Image does not display on a second monitor o Video files or DVD video does not play, audio plays by no video After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Select the appropriate video card for stated requirements. Install a video card. Configure Crossfire or SLI video. 26

A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Adapter cards Graphics cards Capture cards (TV, video) 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Adapter cards Graphics cards Capture cards (TV, video) Lecture Focus Questions: What are the most important things to consider when selecting a video card? How does the color depth and resolution depend on the amount of video card memory? Which signal does a TV tuner use to process digital TV signals? How do you increase performance by installing and linking multiple video cards? What is the major difference in the function of a DVI-A connection and a DVI-D connection? Which video interfaces on a video card provides analog, video-only TV output? What is the difference between configuring the visual effects optimizing for appearance compared to optimizing for performance? Video/Demo 2.7.1 Installing a Video Card 6:41 2.7.3 Video Interfaces 7:24 2.7.5 Configuring Display Settings 8:46 2.7.9 Video Troubleshooting 15:19 2.7.10 Optimizing Video 8:01 Lab/Activity Configure Dual Displays Upgrade a Video Card Optimize Video Settings Number of Exam Questions 14 questions 27

Total About 85 minutes 28

Section 2.8: Audio Summary This section examines information about installing, configuring, and troubleshooting audio. Concepts covered include: Considerations when configuring a system sound Considerations when troubleshooting sound problems Sound card connectors o Mini TRS o Toslink o RCA o DB-15 o Firewire o HDMI After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Select a sound card for a given scenario. Create a multi-media system by installing sound devices. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Adapter cards Sound cards 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Adapter cards Sound cards Lecture Focus Questions: You installed a CD-ROM drive, but when you play a CD no sound is played on the sound card. Other sounds play fine. What should you do to correct the problem? What might you need to do to play AIFF files on a Windows computer? What color typically indicates the speaker port on a sound card? What color is used for the microphone? Which connectors are used for digital S/PDIF audio? What is a DB-15 connector on a sound card typically used for? 29

Video/Demo Lab/Activity 2.8.1 Managing Audio Devices 5:43 Select and Install a Sound Card Number of Exam Questions 4 questions Total About 20 minutes 30

Section 2.9: Cooling Summary In this section students will learn about the following methods that can be used to cool a system: Heat sensors Fans Heat sinks Rounded cables Liquid cooling Room temperature Ventilation A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Cooling systems Heat sinks Thermal compound CPU fans Case fans 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Cooling systems Heat sinks Thermal compound CPU fans Case fans Lecture Focus Questions: How does adequate cooling improve performance and extend the life of components? How does organizing and attaching cables and wires in and around a computer system help with internal airflow? Why should you keep the system case cover on during normal operations? When might you want to add liquid cooling to a computer? Which types of heat sensors do most newer motherboards include? What is the function of a thermal pad? When should it be used? 31

Video/Demo 2.9.1 System Cooling 11:30 Number of Exam Questions 6 questions Total About 20 minutes 32

Section 2.10: Peripheral Devices Summary This section discusses installing and troubleshooting peripheral devices. Concepts covered include: Peripheral device connection types: o PS/2 o USB o Firewire o Serial o Parallel o PC Card (PCMCIA) o PCI Express (ExpressCard) Troubleshooting techniques: o Input devices o USB/Firewire After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Connect peripheral devices using the appropriate cables and connectors. Add USB and Firewire support using adapter cards and motherboard header devices. Edit peripheral device settings in the BIOS. Install, update, and roll back device drivers. Enable, disable, and uninstall devices using Device Manager. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Motherboards I/O ports USB 1.1, USB 2.0, serial, IEEE 1394 / Firewire, parallel, PS/2 o Adapter cards I/O cards Firewire USB Parallel Serial 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components 33

o Motherboards I/O ports USB 1.1, USB 2.0, serial, IEEE 1394 / Firewire, parallel, PS/2 o Adapter cards I/O cards Firewire USB Parallel Serial 2.3 Given a scenario, select and use system utilities / tools and evaluate the results o Devices Manager Enable Disable Warnings Indicators 2.4 Evaluate and resolve common issues o Operational Problems Devices drivers failure (input / output devices) Lecture Focus Questions: What is the difference in the way that serial devices transmit data and parallel devices transmit data? Why might you have a resource sharing problem if you install a serial device on both COM 2 and COM 4? What type of ports are common parallel devices such as printers and scanners connected to? What types of peripheral devices does USB support? How can you verify that a device is compatible with the version of Windows on the system? What is different about installing a USB device driver and installing drivers for other device types? Video/Demo About 25 minutes Lab/Activity 2.10.1 Peripheral Devices 4:11 Connect Peripheral Devices Connect USB and Firewire Devices 34

Number of Exam Questions 7 questions 35

Section 2.11: Notebook Components Summary In this section students will learn about considerations for upgrading or repairing notebook components. Concepts covered include: Considerations when working with the following components: o Hard drive o Memory o Keyboard o Touchpad o Wireless network card o Processor o LCD display After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Replace a hard disk in a notebook computer. Add memory to a notebook. Change notebook components such as the keyboard, video card, or other internal components. Troubleshoot problems with notebook components. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.3 Given a scenario, install, configure, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace laptop components o Components of the LCD including inverter, screen and video card o Hard drive and memory o Disassemble processes for proper re-assembly Document and label cable and screw locations Organize parts Refer to manufacturer documentation Use appropriate hand tools o Recognize internal laptop expansion slot types o Upgrade wireless cards and video card o Replace keyboard, processor, plastics, pointer devices, heat sinks, fans, system board, CMOS battery, speakers 36

Lecture Focus Questions: How do you identify the location of components and replacement procedures for notebook systems? How can you tell if a failed notebook display is caused by the screen or the video card? How can you continue to use a notebook if a built-in component (such as a keyboard, pointing device, or network card) fails? When purchasing a replacement internal drive for a notebook, which specifications should you verify before the purchase? What type of notebook internal components may require you to remove the keyboard before replacing that component? How do you fix common problems with a notebook touchpad? Video/Demo 2.11.1 Changing a Notebook Hard Disk 2:43 2.11.2 Adding Notebook Memory 4:48 2.11.3 Changing a Notebook Keyboard 4:29 2.11.4 LCD Components 11:53 2.11.5 Replacing Internal Notebook Components 9:04 Number of Exam Questions 17 questions Total About 50 minutes 37

Section 3.1: Floppy Summary This section provides an overview of floppy drives. Details about the following are presented: Installing floppy drives Troubleshooting floppy drives After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Install a floppy drive, connecting the necessary data and power cables. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Storage devices FDD 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Storage devices FDD Lecture Focus Questions: How do you change the drive letter for a floppy drive? How do you identify pin 1 on a floppy drive cable? Where is the software driver for floppy disks located? How does the system recognize which type of drive is installed? What precautions should you take with floppy disks? Video/Demo Lab/Activity 3.1.1 Installing a Floppy Drive 10:51 Install a Floppy Drive Troubleshoot Floppy Configuration Number of Exam Questions 4 questions 38

Total About 20 minutes 39

Section 3.2: Parallel ATA (IDE) Summary This section discusses using Parallel ATA (IDE) devices to connect hard drives and other devices. Details about the following are covered: IDE standards ATA features and installation Troubleshooting PATA devices After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Install PATA devices by setting jumpers and connecting data and power cables. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Storage devices HDD PATA 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Storage devices HDD PATA Lecture Focus Questions: With multiple devices on a single data cable, how do you identify which drive is the master and which is the slave? How should you configure a single device on one channel? What is cable select and how does it work? You have an optical drive and a hard disk in a system with two PATA channels. How should you install the devices for best performance? How would you increase the number of hard drives after reaching the limit for the ATA connectors the motherboard has on board? Video/Demo 3.2.1 ATA/IDE Devices 13:55 3.2.2 Installing an ATA Device 10:05 40

About 45 minutes Lab/Activity Install PATA Devices Troubleshoot PATA Devices Number of Exam Questions 8 questions 41

Section 3.3: Serial ATA Summary This section discusses facts about doing a Serial ATA installation. Concepts covered include: SATA standards: o SATA 1.5 Gbps (SATA I) o SATA 3 Gbps (SATA II or SATA-IO) o SATA 6 Gbps o esata Considerations when installing SATA devices. After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Install SATA devices. Add esata ports and connect esata devices. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Storage devices HDD SATA Solid state Removable External o Adapter cards Storage controllers esata cards 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Storage devices HDD SATA Removable External o Adapter cards Solid state Storage controllers esata cards 42

Lecture Focus Questions: What are the main differences between PATA and SATA? What enhancements does SATA II (SATA-IO) provide over the original SATA specifications? What is esata and when would you use it? What are two possible ways to configure a SATA II drive into a system that only supports SATA I? Video/Demo Lab/Activity 3.3.1 Serial ATA 9:31 3.3.2 Installing a Serial ATA Device 5:33 Install SATA Devices Number of Exam Questions 4 questions Total About 25 minutes 43

Section 3.4: Optical Devices Summary This section discusses details about optical devices. Concepts covered include: Factors to consider when selecting an optical drive: o Interface o Drive function o Capacity o Speed o Format o Cache o Additional drive features: Bundled recording software Slimline drives LightScribe Installing an optical drive Troubleshooting optical storage devices After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Select a suitable optical drive based on customer requirements. Install optical devices. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Storage devices Optical drives CD / DVD / RW / Blu-Ray Removable 1.2 Given a scenario, detect problems, troubleshoot and repair/replace personal computer components o Storage devices Optical drives CD / DVD / RW / Blu-Ray Removable Lecture Focus Questions: Which optical disc standard has the highest storage capacity? What is the difference between dual layer and double sided discs? 44

An optical drive speed is identified as 24x10x70. What does each of the numbers indicate? How do you prevent buffer underrun errors? What is the function of LightScribe? What must you install to play DVD or Blu-ray movies? How would you open an optical drive disc tray when the drive does not have power? Video/Demo 3.4.1 Optical Drives 4:03 Number of Exam Questions 7 questions Total About 20 minutes 45

Section 3.5: Storage Solutions Summary This section explores facts about selecting storage solutions. Details covered include: A comparison of the following storage devices: o Hard disk o Optical discs o Flash devices o Solid state drives (SSD) Common storage device interfaces o PATA o SATA o USB/Firewire After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Select storage devices to meet scenario requirements. Install internal and external drives. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Storage devices HDD SATA PATA Solid state FDD Optical drives Removable External o Adapter cards Storage controllers CD / DVD / RW / Blu-Ray RAID cards (RAID array - levels 0,1,5) esata cards 46

Lecture Focus Questions: What are the advantages of hard disks over all other forms of storage media? How do optical drives store and read data from a disc? How does a flash card differ from a floppy disk or a hard disk? How does SATA improve upon the limitations of PATA? How is configuring SATA easier than configuring PATA? Which type of interface would you commonly use to attach a flash card reader to the computer? What are the advantages of SSD over hard disks? Disadvantages? What is the advantage of esata for storage devices over USB or Firewire? Video/Demo 3.5.1 Storage Solutions 3:01 Number of Exam Questions 6 questions Total About 15 minutes 47

Section 4.1: File System Summary This section examines file systems. Concepts covered include: Components of a file system o Partition o Volume o Unallocated space Formatting a disk File systems supported by Windows o FAT32 o NTFS Converting a FAT or FAT32 drive to NTFS After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Format drives. Use the Convert utility to convert a drive to NTFS. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 2.1 Select the appropriate commands and options to troubleshoot and resolve problems o FORMAT 2.3 Given a scenario, select and use system utilities / tools and evaluate the results o Disk Manager FAT32 and NTFS Lecture Focus Questions: What is the difference between a partition and a volume? What advantages does NTFS provide over FAT32? Why should you back up all data before formatting a drive? How can you reformat a drive from FAT to NTFS without losing all of the data? How would you convert a drive from NTFS to FAT32? Which operating systems can use NTFS? Video/Demo 4.1.1 File System 5:11 4.1.2 Formatting and Converting 6:57 48

Lab/Activity Format Drives Number of Exam Questions 4 questions Total About 20 minutes 49

Section 4.2: Partitions and Disks Summary This section provides an overview of partitions and disks. Concepts covered include: Disk types: o Basic o Dynamic Managing partitions and volumes After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Create primary and extended partitions. Upgrade a basic disk to a dynamic disk. Create dynamic volumes. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 2.3 Given a scenario, select and use system utilities / tools and evaluate the results o Disk Manager Active, primary, extended and logical partitions Lecture Focus Questions: How does the computer identify a bootable partition that contains the operating system files? What is the difference between basic and dynamic disks? What advantages do dynamic disks provide? What happens to existing volumes when you convert a basic disk to a dynamic disk? What steps must you perform to make a dynamic disk a basic disk? How can you get the operating system onto a dynamic disk? Video/Demo 4.2.1 Partitions and Disks 11:30 4.2.3 Creating Volumes in Windows XP 8:31 4.2.4 Creating Volumes in Windows Vista 8:12 Lab/Activity Create Volumes 50

Number of Exam Questions 10 questions Total About 40 minutes 51

Section 4.3: Adding Storage Summary This section provides information about strategies to use to add storage space to existing volumes: Configure a mount point Extend the volume After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Mount a partition to a folder. Extend existing volumes. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 2.3 Given a scenario, select and use system utilities / tools and evaluate the results o Disk Manager Active, primary, extended and logical partitions Mount points Mounting a drive Lecture Focus Questions: What are the requirements for creating a mount point? Which types of volumes support mount points? What are the prerequisites for extending a volume on a basic disk? What advantages do dynamic disks provide when extending volumes? What is the difference between an extended volume and a spanned volume? Video/Demo Lab/Activity 4.3.1 Adding Storage 10:45 4.3.2 Creating Mount Points and Extending Volumes 9:09 Add Space to Existing Volumes. Number of Exam Questions 3 questions 52

Total About 30 minutes 53

Section 4.4: RAID Summary This section provides the basic information about using RAID to improve performance, provide fault tolerance, or both. Concepts covered include: RAID levels: o RAID 0 (striping) o RAID 1 (mirroring) o RAID 5 (striping with distributed parity) Considerations when using RAID configurations The role of JBOD Methods of implementing RAID o Hardware o Software o Operating system Generic steps for configuring software RAID included on many motherboards Generic steps for installing the operating system on a RAID array After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Select the appropriate RAID level to meet customer requirements. Configure RAID 0, 1, and 5 arrays. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 1.1 Given a scenario, install, configure and maintain personal computer components o Adapter cards Storage controllers RAID cards (RAID array - levels 0,1,5) Lecture Focus Questions: How does a RAID 0 configuration improve disk read and write performance? With a RAID 0 configuration, what happens to your data if a drive in the set fails? What advantages does RAID 5 have over RAID 1? What causes write operations to be slower in RAID 5 than other RAID configurations? What is the difference between a RAID configuration and a JBOD configuration? What is the minimum number of disks for a RAID 1 configuration? RAID 5? What is the difference between implementing software RAID and implementing operating system RAID? 54

Which tool would you use on a Windows desktop operating system to create a RAID 5 array? Video/Demo Lab/Activity 4.4.1 RAID 13:02 4.4.3 Configuring RAID Arrays Lab/Activity 13:03 Create a RAID 0 Array Implement a RAID Solution Number of Exam Questions 8 questions Total About 45 minutes 55

Section 4.5: Disk Status Summary This section provides information about the following disk and volume statuses in Disk Management: Online Healthy Formatting Unallocated No Media Initializing Foreign Not Initialized Unknown Online (Errors) Missing Offline Failed Unreadable After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Use Disk Management to identify and correct problems with disk status. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 2.3 Given a scenario, select and use system utilities / tools and evaluate the results o Disk Manager Drive status Foreign drive Healthy Formatting Active unallocated Failed Dynamic Offline Online Lecture Focus Questions: What does the status of Foreign indicate? How would you correct the problem? What situations might an Unreadable status indicate? What types of drives does the No Media status apply to? 56

Video/Demo 4.5.1 Disk Status 3:01 Number of Exam Questions 4 questions Total About 15 minutes 57

Section 4.6: Disk Optimization Summary In this section students will learn about optimizing the disk to improve overall performance. Concepts covered include: Features you can upgrade to optimize disk performance: o Upgrade the hard disk to a hard disk with higher rotation speeds o Upgrade the disk interface Methods to clean up a disk drive: o Disk Cleanup o Disk Defragmenter o Check Disk After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Perform Disk Cleanup. Configure scheduled disk defragmentation. Check a hard disk for errors. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 2.1 Select the appropriate commands and options to troubleshoot and resolve problems o CHKDSK (/f /r) 2.3 Given a scenario, select and use system utilities / tools and evaluate the results o Disk management tools DEFRAG Check Disk Lecture Focus Questions: What tasks does Disk Cleanup perform? Why does fragmentation take place? How does defragmenting improve how a system performs? How is a lost cluster different from a cross-linked file? Which utility could you use to detect and mark bad clusters? Video/Demo 4.6.1 Storage Optimization 15:44 4.6.2 Optimizing Disks 8:14 58

Lab/Activity Perform Disk Maintenance Number of Exam Questions 6 questions Total About 35 minutes 59

Section 5.1: File Locations Summary This section examines details about file locations for Windows 2000, Windows XP and Windows Vista/Windows. The locations for the following file types for each operating system are discussed: System files Fonts Program files User files (user profiles) Temporary file (per user) A+ Practical Application Objectives: 2.2 Differentiate between Windows Operating System directory structures (Windows 2000, XP and Vista) o User file locations o System file locations o Fonts o Temporary files o Program files 4.2 Implement security and troubleshoot common issues o Operating systems System files and folders Lecture Focus Questions: What directory is identified by the %systemroot% variable? Which versions of Windows use the default location of C:\Program Files (x86) for the program files? Which Windows versions use the C:\Users directory for user profiles? Video/Demo 5.1.1 System File Locations 10:06 Number of Exam Questions 9 questions Total About 15 minutes 60

Section 5.2: Managing Files Summary This section provides an overview of the following commands used to manage files: cd dir md mkdir rd copy xcopy edit After finishing this section, students should be able to complete the following tasks: Open a command prompt window. Find help for command prompt commands. Use the command prompt to manage files and directories. A+ Practical Application Objectives: 2.1 Select the appropriate commands and options to troubleshoot and resolve problems o DIR o EDIT o COPY (/a /v /y) o XCOPY o MD / CD / RD o [command name] /? Lecture Focus Questions: When using the command window in Windows, how can you cause the output of a command to list one screen at a time? You type a specific command in the Run... box, the command executes and you do not see the actual output. How can you remedy this problem so you can see the output? How do you repeat a command by causing the most recent command to appear at the command prompt? What function does the cd.. command provide? What dir command can you use to display only the files that are not read-only? Which command removes subdirectories in addition to files in the current directory? 61