Wolaita Sodo University
School of Informatics
Department of Information Technology
Course Title: Computer Maintenance and Technical Support
Course Code: ITec4031
ECTS Credits (CP): 7 Year: III, Semester: I
Pre-requisites: Computer Organization and Architecture
Instructor: Alemayehu Dereje B:058 Office Number:15
Course Objective
After completion of this course ,students will be able to :
Understand and identify PC hardware components
Build, configure,upgrade ,and maintain a computer
Install operating systems nd application software
Providing basic knowledge of preventive maintenance and how to use windows
built-in diagnostic tools.
To have practical experience of troubleshooting PC hardware and software
problems
Understand concepts of maintenance and troubleshooting
Choose CPU that matches their motherboard and install it
Choose different cards that match their motherboard and install them
Install RAM, Cards and other devices
Diagnose computer problems and solve the problems
Course Content
Part I Hardware Concepts
1. Basics
General concepts about PC and tech support
Lab procedures and maintenance tools
Static energy and its effect on computers
Safety rules
Preventive maintenance and troubleshooting
2. Computer Cases and the Motherboard
Computer cases
Safety and the computer
System Cover removal and replacement
1
System board defined
System board evolution
3. The CPU
History of CPU
Types of CPU
CPU Sockets and slots
Upgrading CPUs
4. Memory
Random Access Memory defined
Physical memory packaging
Types of memory
Read-only Memory and Cache Memory
5. Power Supplies
Power supplies
Types of power supply
Batteries
Troubleshooting the Power Supply
6. Storage Devices
The Floppy Drive
The Hard Drive
The CD-ROM Drive
7. Bus and Cards
o Bus: Types of Bus, Expansion Buses
Cards
o The Video Card , The Sound Card, Network card
8. I/O Connectors
The Serial Port
The Parallel Port
9. The Monitor
Introduction to Monitor
Types of Displays
Health and Safety Concerns
Monitor Connections
Troubleshooting the Video System
10. BIOS
2
Basic Input/Output System
Error messages and solutions
Advanced BIOS Features
11. Printers
Printer Types and Printer Technology
Printer Field Replaceable Units
Printer Maintenance Techniques
Part II Software Concepts
1. Introductions
History of Operating System
Types of Operating System
Purpose of Operating System
2. Disk use, Booting and File systems
File systems: FAT,NTFS
Sectors, Clusters and Fragmentation
Boot sector and other areas of disk
3. Registry Editing in Windows
What is Registry, Managing and Editing Registry, Back up registry
4. Installing Hardware, and Software
How to install hardware and drivers, Plug and Play devices
Installing/uninstalling application software
5. Operating System Installation and Management
Install Windows as single or dual boot
Recover failed Windows OS
Install Linux as Single or dual Boot
Manage user accounts and access rights
Computer security ring
Disable/Enable registry editing, task manager, and Command Prompt
Use Administrative tools and control Panel
6. Resource Sharing and Management
File Sharing
Printer Sharing
3
Lab. Classes: Assessment
Method
1. Computer Disassembly
Disassemble a computer using safe lab procedures and proper tools.
2. Computer Assembly
Install the Power Supply
Install the Motherboard
Install the Drives
Install Adapter Cards
Install Internal Cables
Complete the Computer Assembly
Boot the Computer
3. Operating System
Upgrade Components
Install Windows XP
Windows XP User Accounts and Updates
FAT32 and NTFS
Run Commands
Install Third-Party Software
Restore Point
Assignment-1 …………………………………………20%
Practical (LAB)------------------------------------------15%
Mid Exam ……-….………………………………………. 25%
Final Examination………………………………………… 40%
