Managing and Maintaining the PC | Master Course Outlines | Academics

CISC201 Managing and Maintaining the PC

4 credits

3000

CISC128 (C or better)

None

A comprehensive departmental final examination is given.

The course covers installation, configuration, upgrading, troubleshooting, and repairing desktop computer systems. The hands-on opportunity to build a complete computer from component parts is an integral part of the course. Successful completion of the course will prepare a student to take the industry standard, vendor-neutral certification test in this area.

Course Learning Goals

Students will:
1. identify, install, configure, and upgrade desktop computer modules and peripherals, following established basic procedures for system assembly and disassembly of field replaceable modules;
2. diagnose and effectively troubleshoot common hardware problems and system malfunctions;
3. recognize the potential hazards to personnel and equipment when working with lasers, high voltage equipment, ESD, and items that require special disposal procedures that comply with environmental guidelines; and
4. explain basic network concepts and terminology, determine whether a computer is networked, construct procedures for swapping and configuring network interface cards, and predict ramifications of repairs when a computer is networked.
Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities

Course Outline:
1. Basic Computer Operation
2. Hardware and Software
3. Power Supplies
4. The Motherboard
5. I/0 Devices
6. Memory
7. Removable Storage Devices
8. Hard Drives
9. Multi-Media Devices
10. Mass Storage
11. Modems
12. PCs Connecting to a Network
13. Notebooks and PDAs
14. Printers
15. Troubleshooting and Maintenance Fundamentals
Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals
The assessment of Course Learning Goals is based on written tests, labs, and other assignments, as well as performance-based tasks as appropriate, and a departmental final exam.
Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Student:
Departmentally-selected textbook. Details provided by the instructor of each course section. See course syllabus.