The duration of the course is kept to five days for practical purposes. Some areas of the course are of an accelerated nature in order to meet the core requirements of A+.
Hardware
Categorize storage devices and backup media
Explain motherboard components, types and features
Classify power supplies types and characteristics
Explain the purpose and characteristics of CPUs and their features
Explain cooling methods and devices
Compare and contrast memory types, characteristics and their purpose
Distinguish between the different display devices and their characteristics
Install and configure peripherals and input devices
Summarize the function and types of adapter cards
Install, configure and optimize laptop components and features
Install and configure printers
Use a selection of tools, including the following: Multimeter, PSU tester, Specialty hardware / tools, Anti-static pad and wrist strap etc
Troubleshooting, Repair and Maintenance
Troubleshooting theory
Interpret common hardware and operating system symptoms and their causes
Determine troubleshooting methods and tools for PC’s, laptops, software and printers
Explain and interpret common PC, Software, printer and laptop issues and determine the appropriate basic troubleshooting method
Integrate common preventative maintenance techniques
Operating Systems and Software
NB: Unless otherwise noted, operating systems referred to within include Microsoft Windows 2000, Windows XP Professional, XP Home, XP
MediaCenter, Windows Vista Home, Home Premium, Business and Ultimate, Windows 7 Starter, Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate
Compare and contrast the different Windows Operating Systems and their features
Demonstrate proper use of user interfaces
Explain the process and steps to install and configure the Windows OS
Explain the basics of boot sequences, methods and startup utilities
Differentiate between Windows Operating System directory structures (Windows 2000, XP, Vista,Windows 7)
Networking
Categorize network cables and connectors and their implementations
Compare and contrast the different network types
Troubleshoot client-side connectivity issues using appropriate tools
Install and configure a small office home office (SOHO) network
Security
Explain the basic principles of security concepts and technologies
Summarize the following security features
How to prevent, troubleshoot and remove viruses and malware
Implement security and troubleshoot common issues
Operational Procedure
Outline the purpose of appropriate safety and environmental procedures and how to apply them
Demonstrate the appropriate use of communication skills and professionalism in the workplace
CompTIA Acronyms
Comprehensive outline of all A+ Acronyms
Discussion and review
