UCIS 136 - Computer Hardware Components

Skills and abilities required to support PC hardware, software and peripherals, mobile device hardware, networking and troubleshooting hardware, and network connectivity issues. Configure operating systems including Windows, iOS, Android, MacOS and Linux. Also includes security and the fundamentals of cloud computing.

Course Learning Outcomes:

Identify issues with computing devices including computers, mobile devices, printers, and network devices.
Describe the hardware components of modern computing environments and their individual functions.
Describe the role and basic functions of an operating system, and how operating systems interact with hardware and software applications.
Describe security safeguards within operating systems.
Identify four critical thinking sub-competencies; gather and assess relevant information, identify patterns, questions assumptions and draw well-reasoned conclusions.

Outline:

Hardware
- Configure BIOS/UEFI
- Components and types of motherboards
- RAM types and uses
- Expansion boards
  - Video cards
  - Networking cards
  - Storage cards
- Storage devices
  - Optical drives
  - Magnetic media
  - SSD
  - Hot-swappable drives
  - RAID types
  - Tape drives
- CPU
  - Types
  - Speeds
  - Features
  - Cooling
- Interfaces
  - USB
    - SATA
    - Firewire
- Bluetooth
- IR
- NFC
  - Video
  - Adapters and converters
- Power supplies
- Connectors
- Specifications
Displays
- Types
  - LCD
  - Projector
  - LED
  - Specifications
  - Interfaces
- Peripherals
  - Printers
    - Lasers
    - Inkjet
    - Thermal
    - Impact
      - Speakers
      - Scanners
      - Biometric devices
      - Webcam
Networking
- Cables and connectors
  - Fiber
  - Twisted pair
  - Coax
- Basic TCP/IP
  - IPv4 vs IPv6
  - Subnets
  - DHCP and ARP
  - Gateway
- Common TCP/UDP protocols and ports
- WiFI
  - Standards
  - Encryption
- Internet Connection Types
  - DSL
  - Cable
  - Fiber
  - Dial-up
  - Satelite
- Devices
  - Hub
  - Switch
  - Router
  - Access Point
  - Modem
  - Firewall
  - Wireless repeaters
  - Power over ethernet
  - Ethernet over power
Mobile Devices
- Laptop hardware and components
- Laptop specific features
  - Special function keys
  - Docking stations
  - Locking cables
- Characteristics of other mobile devices
  - Smartphones and tables
  - eReader
  - Wearable technology
  - GPS
- Connection types
  - Lightning
  - Bluetooth
  - USB
  - NFC
  - IR
Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
- Desktop PC hardware issues
- RAID arrays and hard drives
- Video and projector display issues
- Wired and wireless networks
- Printing issues
- Mobile device Issues
Critical Thinking
- Gather and assess relevant information
  - Identify core issues
  - Provide thoughtful analysis
  - Distinguish fact from opinion
  - Recognize role and purpose of bias
  - Support recommendations with evidence
- Identify Patterns
  - Recognize commonalities in seemingly unrelated situations
  - Frame problems in familiar terms
  - Validate and assess different clustering techniques
- Question Assumptions
  - Identify stated assumptions underlying the reasoning
  - Identify hidden or unstated assumptions underlying the reason
  - Explain your approach for determining if assumptions are true
  - Determine if assumptions should be accepted or rejected
- Draw Conclusions
  - Evaluate the strength of an argument, based upon evidence from multiple sources
  - Form judgments based upon evidence
  - Make recommendations supported by evidence