A+ Essentials
Course Introduction
Course Introduction
Module 01 – Troubleshooting Methodology
Troubleshooting Methodology
Popular Troubleshooting Models
Basic Troubleshooting Stages
CompTIA's A+ Model
CompTIA's Network+ Model
Novell's Model
The ASID Model
Gathering Information from the User
Some Examples
Identifying Hardware or Software Problem
Information Resources
Microsoft Help and Support
Microsoft KB Article
Demo – Help and Support in XP
Demo – Help and Support in Vista
Problem and Resolution Tracking
Help Desk Software
Professional Service
Professional Communication Guidelines
Pitfalls of Communication
Effective Communication
Verbal Communication
Verbal Guidelines
Nonverbal Communication
Customer Satisfaction
Service–level Agreement
Module 01 Review
Module 02 – Operating Systems
Operating Systems
Windows
Microsoft Vista Business Edition
Macintosh (Mac) OS
Mac OS X Leopard
Linux
Ubuntu Linux
Windows Client Operating Systems
Product Lifecycle
Identify Available Support
Not Available in Vista Home Basic
Not Available in Either Home Version
Available in Home Premium & Ultimate
Available Only in Windows Vista Ultimate
Available in Ultimate and Enterprise
Windows XP Professional Features
Demo – Windows XP Professional
Windows 2000 Features
Windows 2000 Mobile Support
Demo – Windows 2000 Professional
32–bit versus 64–bit
The Windows Vista Desktop
Windows XP Professional Desktop
Windows 2000 Professional Desktop
Windows Aero Features
Windows Aero
3D Windows Flip
Aero System Requirements
Windows Explorer in Vista
Windows Explorer in XP
Demo – Windows Vista Explorer
The Control Panel (Vista)
Control Panel Search
Computer Management Console
Network Folder
Command–line Utility
Task Manager
Microsoft Management Console
Demo – Vista Features
Directory Structure
Navigating Directories
Creating Directories
Copying Directories
Removing Directories
Demo – Directories
Binary and Text Files
ASCII
File–name Extensions
Common File Extensions
File Names and Extensions
Batch Files
Demo – Batch Files
File Attributes
Command–line Utility
Attrib.exe
Demo – File Attributes
Demo – Command–line
Sharing Files with Local Users
Public Folder Sharing in Vista
Shared Documents
Demo – Sharing a Folder
Permissions
NTFS
NTFS File Permissions
NTFS Folder Permissions
Guidelines for NTFS Permissions
Assigning NTFS Permissions
Demo – Setting NTFS Permissions
Module 02 Review
Module 03 – Electricity and Power Supplies
Electricity and Power Supplies
Characteristics of Electricity
Alternating and Direct Current
Characteristics, continued
Electricity
Safety Precautions
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
Preventing Static Buildup
Preventing Static Discharge
An Antistatic (ESD) Wrist Strap
Typical Internal Components
Slide Catches
Determining Which Side to Open
Removable Front Cover
Live Demo – ESD
Live Demo – Outside of the Computer
Live Demo – Inside of the Computer
A PC Power Supply
Voltage Selection Switch
Live Demo – Modern Power Supply
Live Demo – Legacy Power Supply
Power Supply Specifications
Typical Power Requirements
Standard Outputs
Power Connectors
Peripheral Power Connector
Live Demo – Peripheral Power Connector
Floppy Power Connector
SATA Power Connector
Wire Colors
Live Demo – Wire Colors
Motherboard Power Connectors
Live Demo – Motherboard Power Connectors
Power Supply Form Factors
Module 03 Review
Module 04 – CPUs and Motherboards
CPUs and Motherboards
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Control Units
Execution Units
CPU Performance
CPU Design Characteristics
Multiple–processor Support
Processor Specifications
Bus Width Specifications
Internal Specifications
Live Demo – Processor Installation
Inside the Case
Chipsets
Northbridge and Southbridge
CPU Packaging
PGA (Pin Grid Array) Package
SECC (Single Edge Cartridge ) Package
Packages
Common Desktop Sockets and Slots
Pentium with MMX CPU & Socket 7 Socket
Typical Cooling Mechanisms
Cooling Notes
Heat Sinks and Cooling Fins
Power Supply and CPU Fans
Cooling Fins
Cooling Fins and a Fan
Live Demo – Cooling Fins and a Fan
Live Demo – Processor Fan
Other Cooling Techniques
Live Demo – Cooling Method
Motherboards
Components
A Motherboard
Live Demo – Motherboard
Daughter Board
Riser Card
Live Demo – Riser Card
Form Factor
Module 04 Review
Module 05 – The Basic Input/Output System
The Basic Input/Output System
Firmware
BIOS
CMOS
CMOS Battery
CMOS Configuration
CMOS Utility Access Examples
CMOS Configurable Settings
BIOS Configuration Procedure
Demo – BIOS
BIOS Updates
BIOS Update Sources
Determining the BIOS Version
Flashing the BIOS
BIOS Update Failures
Recovering from a Failed Update
Bad CMOS Battery
Replacing CMOS Battery
Live Demo – Replacing CMOS Battery
POST Process
Beep Codes
Numeric Codes
Logo Screen
The Boot Process
Boot Devices
Boot Devices In The System BIOS
Chapter 5 Review
Module 06 – Memory Systems
Memory Systems
Memory
Measuring Memory
Larger Memory Units
Memory Types
Volatile vs. Non–volatile Memory
Dynamic vs. Static Memory
Asynchronous vs. Synchronous
Memory Access Types
Access Time
Speed Ratings
Banking Requirements
Packaging
Single– and Double–sided Modules
Package Types: Desktops
Package Types: Laptops
Package Type: Printers
Memory Error Recovery
Parity
Demo – Legacy Memory Modules
Live Demo – Legacy Memory Modules
Live Demo – Modern Memory Modules
Live Demo – Notebook Memory
Task Manager
Performance Tab Indicators
The Performance Tab
Demo – Task Manager
Virtual Memory
Optimizing the Page File
Demo – Page File
Chapter 6 Review
Module 07 – Bus Structures
Bus Structures
Buses
PCI Bus Slots
Video Bus
An AGP Video Bus Slot
The Riser Bus
Three Riser Standards:
System Interaction
Interrupts
IRQs
Device Manager: IRQs
I/O Addresses
Device Manager: I/O Addresses
DMA Channels
Device Manager: DMA Channels
Base Memory Addresses
Device Manager: Base Memory
Demo – Device Manager
Bus Types
PC/XT Bus
PC/XT Card
PC/AT and ISA Bus
ISA Adapter
Live Demo – Comparing ISA to PCI
ISA Expansion Bus Slot
PCI Bus
PCI Adapter
Live Demo – Bus Slots
PCI Slots
PCIe
Multifunction Cards
Need for Video Buses
VESA Local Bus
VLB Adapter
PCI–based Video
AGP
AGP Adapter
AGP Standards
AGP Characteristics
AGP Slots
An AGP Slot
PCIe 02
A PCIe Video Card
Live Demo – Graphics Slots
Module 07 Review
Module 08 – Expansion Cards
Expansion Cards
Controllers and Interfaces
PC Drive Interfaces
IDE/ATA
ATA Standards
PIO Modes
DMA Modes
UltraDMA Modes
ATA Motherboard Connectors
Standard ATA Drive Cable
High–speed 80–pin ATA Drive Cable
SATA Data Cable
Live Demo – SATA Cable
Drive Capacities
Drive Identification
Primary and Secondary Channels
Live Demo – Drive Identification
SCSI
SCSI Device IDs
Termination
SCSI ID and Termination
Differential SCSI
ST506 / ST 412 Interface
ESDI Interface
USB Interfaces
IEEE 1394 (FireWire, i.Link) Interfaces
Video Adapters
Creating an Image
Maximum Colors
Video Standards
SuperVGA
15–pin VGA/SVGA Connector
VGA/SVGA Connector and Socket
DVI Connection Types
DVI–D Port
DVI–I Port
HDMI (High–Definition Multimedia Interface)
Live Demo – Identifying Video Adapter Types
PC Sound
Sound Card Components
A Sound Card
Sound Card Connectors
Live Demo – Sound Connectors
Speakers
CD Audio
Modems
Riser Cards – AMR
Riser Cards – CNR
Riser Cards – ACR
Comparing AMR and CNR
Softmodems
When a Modem isn?t a Modem
Modem Connections
Live Demo – RJ–11 Connectors
Live Demo – Network Cards and Cables
Data Transmission Speed
ITU Standards
MNP Classes
Error Detection and Compression
Module 08 Review
Module 09 – Peripheral Connection Types
Peripheral Connection Types
Ports
Serial Ports
Serial Port Characteristics
Serial Port Characteristics ? Parity Options
Serial Port Characteristics ? Flow Control
Male and Female Connectors
Serial Cables
Serial Connector Pin Numbering
Pin Numbers
9–pin Null Modem Connections
25–pin Null Modem Connections
Live Demo – Serial Connectors
Parallel Ports
Parallel Port Resources
Port Types
Printer Port Types
Female 25–pin Parallel
Centronics
Live Demo – 25–pin Parallel Port/Centronics Connector
Input Devices
Keyboard Port and Connector
AT Keyboard Port and Connector
Mouse Port and Connector
Bar Code Reader with Y–cable
Live Demo – PS/2 Keyboard and Mouse
Live Demo – USB Mouse
Demo – USB Mouse
Mouse Properties
Demo – Mouse Properties
Keyboard Properties
Demo – Keyboard Properties
KVM Switch
PS/2 KVM
USB KVM
USB Features
USB Classes
USB Device Classes
USB Versions
USB Symbols
USB Devices in Device Manager
USB Ports
USB Connectors
Live Demo – USB Connectors
USB Specifications
USB Power
Installing USB Device via USB Port
Installing USB Devices
FireWire Features
FireWire Versions
Isochronous Transfers
4–pin FireWire Port and Connector
6–pin FireWire Ports and Connector
FireWire Power
Installing IEEE 1394 Devices
Live Demo – FireWire Cable
Multimedia Connections
1/8" Connectors
Example of Line–in Device
Speakers Connected to a PC
Speakers Connected Together
Microphone Connection to a PC
Live Demo – Back of PC
RCA Connectors
S–Video Connectors
RCA and S–Video Connectors
Coax Connectors
Coax Connector
MIDI Connectors
S/PDIF
S/PDIF Connections
Module 09 Review
Module 10 – Data Storage Devices
Data Storage Devices
Hard Drive Components
Components of Magnetic Hard Drive
Solid–state Drives
Solid–state Drive Advantages
Magnetic Drive Advantages
Hard Drive Geometry
Head Crash
Hard Drive Connections
Partitioning
Partition Types
Partitioning Utilities
File Systems
FAT File System
NTFS File System
FAT vs. NTFS
Directory Trees
Root directory of C:
Formatting
Demo – Disk Manager
Fault Tolerance
RAID Levels
Choosing a RAID Level
Striped Volume
Mirrored Volume
RAID 5
Software and Hardware RAID
Hardware RAID Advantages
Components of a CD
Recordable CDs
CD Drive Components
CD Drive Speeds
DVDs
DVD Types
DVD Standards
Blu–Ray Discs
Optical Drive Connections
Live Demo – Optical Drive Connections
Using a CD
Using CD and DVD drives
Demo – Burn CD
USB Flash Drives
USB Technical Specifications
Flash MP3 Player
USB Drivers
Demo – USB Drives
Floppy Disks
5.25" Floppy Disk
3.5" Floppy Disk
Floppy Disk Storage
Capacities
Write Protection
Floppy Controller Resources
Floppy Drive Cable
Floppy Controller Connector
Diskette Preparation
Tape Drives
Tape Formats
Tape Head Cleaning
Hard Disk Maintenance
Disk Cleanup
Demo – Disk Cleanup
ScanDisk
ScanDisk Versions
Demo – Running Scan Disk
Chkdsk
Disk Defragmenter
Disk Defragmenter in Windows XP
Demo – Disk Defragmenter
Module 10 Review
Module 11 – Video Output and Image Input Devices
Video Output and Image Input Devices
CRT Monitor
CRT Components
How CRTs Produce Images
Degaussing
CRT Characteristics
Video Connectors
Display Properties
Display Adjustments
Safety
Flat–Panel Monitor
LCD Advantages
How an LCD Works
Flat–Panel Monitor Characteristics
Touch–Screen
Touch–Screen Input
Laptop Monitors
Flat–Panel Monitor Connections
TMDS
LCD Monitor Installation
Multiple Monitors
Display Projectors
DisplayPort Technology
Demo – Multiple Monitors
Scanners
Flatbed Scanner
Multifunction Sheet–feed Scanner
Hand–held Scanner
TWAIN
Scanner Configuration Features
Scanner Connections
Digital Cameras
Resolutions
Digital Camera Memory Cards
Memory Cards
Printing Images
Digital Camera Connections
Memory Card Readers
Web Cameras (IP Camera?s)
Webcam Example
Network Cameras
Network Camera Example
Network Camera Uses
Headsets, Microphones, and Speakers
Connection Software
Module 11 Review
Module 12 – Printers
Printers
Dot–Matrix Printer
Dot–Matrix Printer Components
Dot–Matrix Printer Connections
Dot–Matrix Options
Other Impact Printers
An Inkjet Printer
Inkjet Process
Inkjet Cartridge Print Heads
Print Heads
Inkjet Print Quality
Straight–Through Paper Path
Curved Paper Path
Photo Printers
Printing onto a CD
Laser Printer
Laser Printer Components
Toner Cartridge Components
Laser Scanner Assembly
Power Supplies
Paper Control and Transport Assembly
Transfer Corona Assembly
Fusing Assembly
Electronic Control Package
Laser Printing Process
Live Demo – Printers
Other Printer Types
Plotter
Additional Printer Types
Main Windows Print Processes
Client Printer Process
Spooler Process
Inkjet Printer Installation
Ink–Level Monitoring Utility
Printer Interfaces
Inkjet Communications Interfaces
Configure the Connection Type
Parallel Port in Device Manager
Installing an Inkjet Printer
Upgrading a Device Driver
Laser Printer Installation
Laser Printer Interfaces
Communications Interfaces
Installing a Laser Printer
Printer Configuration Options
Demo – Installing a Printer
Printer Options
Maintenance
Dot–Matrix Printer Maintenance
Inkjet Printer Maintenance
Laser Printer Maintenance
Module 12 Review
Module 13 – Connecting Computers
Connecting Computers
Local Area Network
Example of a LAN
Basic Types of Networks
The Peer–to–Peer Model
A Peer–to–Peer Network
Peer–to–Peer Authentication
Local User Accounts
Using a Shared Resource
The Client/Server Model
A Client/Server Network
Network Client
The Logon Process
Network Wiring
Fiber Optic Cable
Fiber Optic Cable Networks
Twisted–Pair Cable
Composite Cable
Coaxial Cable
Duplex
Ethernet
Ethernet Media
Ethernet Standards
Wireless LAN
Benefits & Drawbacks of WLANs
Wide Area Network
WAN Connections
POTS/PSTN
ISDN
VPN
DSL
Cable
Satellite
Wireless WAN
Cellular
3G Networks
4G Networks
T and E lines
X.25 and Frame Relay
ATM
Fiber Optic Wired Connections
SONET
Fiber Optic Connectors
Fiber Optic Connector Types
Twisted–Pair Connections
UTP Categories
Stranded vs. Solid TP Cable
Twisted–Pair Connectors
RJ Connectors
Modern Residential Wiring
RJ–25 Pinout
RJ–45 Connector
Pin Numbering of RJ–45 Connector
Live Demo – RJ–45 and RJ–11 Connectors
Coaxial Connections
Common Components of Coaxial
RG Standards
Thinnet Connectors
Thicknet Vampire Tap
Live Demo – Coax and Coax Networks
Plenum Wiring
Network Interface Card
Computer Network Connections
PCI Ethernet Card
Notebook Computers
NIC Selection
Status Indicator Lights
Device Manager
Live Demo – Examining your NIC
Modems
Modulation/Demodulation
Connections
Star Topology
Ethernet Hubs
How a Hub Works
Router
Routing between Network Segments
Routers: Key Points
Live Demo – Configure Router
Demo – Router Setup
Layer 2 Switches
VLAN Trunking
Module 13 Review
Module 14 – Networking Computers
Networking Computers
Network Protocol
Wireless Network Protocols
Demo – Install Protocols
Addressing
MAC Address
IPv4
Classful IPv4 Addresses
IP Classes
Parts of an IP Address
Subnet Masks
Network IDs
Special Addresses
APIPA
CIDR
CIDR Address
IPv6
IPv6 Address Types
IPv6 Address Scopes
Default Gateway
Routing Example
Character–Based Names
Domain Name System (DNS)
Top–level Domains
Countries As Top Level Domains
New Top Level Domains
NetBIOS
Resolving NetBIOS by Broadcast
Resolving NetBIOS by WINS
IPCONFIG
Example of ipconfig /all Results
Demo – ipconfig/all (xp)
Demo – ipconfig /all (Windows 7)
Successful Ping
Steps after Unsuccessful Ping
Demo – Troubleshooting TCP/IP
Demo – Ping
TCP/IP Architecture
Application–Layer Protocols
HTTP
FTP
Telnet
E–mail Protocols
Port Addresses
Service Port Addresses
Demo – Netstat
Static TCP/IP Configuration
Demo – Configuring TCP/IP
DHCP and DHCPv6
The IPv4 Lease Process
The IPv6 Lease Process
IPv6 Router Flags
Wireless Nodes on a Network
Wireless Connection Components
Wireless NICs
Wireless Access Points
Wireless Speeds
WAP Configuration
Securing your AP
Wireless Authentication Methods
The 802.1 Protocol
Demo – Wireless Access Point
Wireless Auto Configuration
Wireless Network Problems
Demo – Wireless Client
Creating a Dial–up Connection
Vista Dial–up Connection Wizard
Vista: Connect to a Workplace
Dial–up Connection Properties
Module 14 Review
Module 15 – Portable Computers
Portable Computers
Notebook Computer
Typical Notebook Components
Live Demo – Mini PC Card
Notebooks
Netbooks
Notebook Batteries
Battery Types
Power Adapters
Power Indicator Lights
Notebook Processors
Notebook Memory
Notebook Drives
Accessing the Hard Drive
Swapping a Removable Drive
Live Demo – Hot–Swappable Components
Notebook Keyboard
LCD Monitors
Native Resolutions
Notebook Pointing Devices
Touchpad
Handwriting Technology
Notebook Peripheral Ports
Live Demo – Inside of Laptop
Wireless Communication
Infrared
IrDA Port
Radio
802.11g Wireless Router
Bluetooth
Network Connections
PC Card Types
Type II PC Card
Live Demo – Type II PC Card
PC Card Bus Types
Inserting and Removing PC Cards
Card and Socket Services
Mini PCI Card
Live Demo – Mini PC Card 02
Network Adapters and Modems
Desktop Features
Port Replicator
Notebook Computer Issues
Power Issues
Demo – Power Management Utility
Power–Related Measurements
Replacing the Battery
Troubleshooting Power Problems
Maintenance
Operating Environment
Transporting a Notebook
Module 15 Review
Module 16 – Monitoring and Management
Monitoring and Management
Windows Diagnostics
System Information Window
Remote Computer Information
Demo – Windows Diagnostics
Command–Line System Information
DirectX Diagnostic
DirectX Diagnostic Tool
DirectX Diagnostic Pages
Demo – DirectX Diagnostics
Task Manager
Windows Task Manager
The Applications Tab
Demo – Monitoring Applications
The Processes Tab
The Services Tab
The Performance Tab
Demo – Monitoring Performance
The Networking Tab
The Users Tab
Computer Management
Event Viewer
Event Information
Event Types
Event Properties
Demo – Event Logs
Resource Overview
Detailed View of CPU Resource
Demo – Resource Monitor
Performance Monitor
Performance Monitor Real–Time Graph
Performance Objects
Bottlenecks
Adding Counters
Real–Time Monitoring
Performance Monitor Configuration
Performance Monitor Tabs
The Registry
Registry Keys
Registry Editors
Windows Vista Registry Editor
Registry Searches
Registry Corruption and Backups
Demo – Registry
Demo – Registry Backup
Services and Applications
Services
The Services Console
Service Properties
Dependencies
Demo – Services
Power Management
Power Option Configuration
Power Plans
Demo – Power
Sleep and Hibernation Modes
Power Options: Notebooks
Power Options: Desktops
Wake Up on LAN
A NIC?S “Wake Up on LAN” Settings
Module 16 Review
Module 17 – Operating System Troubleshooting
Operating System Troubleshooting
Startup Files
Startup Process
Startup Messages
Operating–System Load Errors
Windows Shutdown Error
Demo – Startup Messages
Startup Modes
Advanced Boot Options Menu
Demo – Startup Modes
System Configuration Utility
Services Page
Startup Modes for Troubleshooting
Demo – System Configuration
Recovery Console
Folder Access in Recovery Console
System Recovery Options Menu
System Recovery Options
Emergency Repair Disk
Windows 2000 Professional ERD
Automated System Recovery
ASR Tasks
System Restore
Vista System Protection
Restoring the System
System Restore in Vista
Restore Points in Vista
System Restore in Windows XP
Restore Points in XP
Demo – System Restore
Module 17 Review
Module 18 – Security
Security
User Accounts
User Names and Passwords
Password Protection
Creating Strong Passwords
Multiple Passwords
User Account Types
Groups
Demo – Local Users and Groups (XP)
Demo – Vista Local User
Demo – Active Directory Groups
Authentication
Authentication Protocols
Security Policies
Password Policies
Setting Values
Account Lockout Policy
Computer vs. Domain
Demo – Local Security Policies
Encryption
Encrypted File System
Demo – Encryption
Whole–Disk Encryption
BitLocker Hardware Requirements
BitLocker Authentication Modes
BitLocker Life Cycle
BitLocker Recovery
Other Whole–Disk Encryption Systems
Biometrics
Biometric Devices
Pros and Cons of Biometric Devices
Smart Cards
Smart Card Components
Smart Card Use
Fobs
BIOS Security
Alleviating Security Risks
Physical Access Restrictions
Firewalls
Firewall Functions
Hardware Firewall
Software Firewall
Proxy Server
Port and Packet Filters
Windows Security Center
Windows Firewall
Windows Firewall Advanced Settings
Demo – Windows Security Center
Demo – Vista Firewall
Social Engineering Attacks
Malicious Software
Protecting Computer Systems
Data Security and Destruction
Data Destruction
Data Migration
Security Policy Contents
Locking Windows Vista
Security Classifications
Module 18 Review
Module 19 – Windows Installation and Upgrades
Windows Installation and Upgrades
Installing Windows Operating Systems
Clean Installation vs. Upgrade
Pre–Installation Tasks
File Backup and Transfer
Windows Vista Home Basic
Windows Vista Home Premium and Business / Ultimate / Enterprise
Windows XP Professional / Home
Windows 2000 Professional
Windows Media Center
Hardware Compatibility
The Upgrade Advisor
Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor
Running the Upgrade Advisor
Windows XP Upgrade Advisor
Demo – Upgrade Advisor
Partitions and Formatting
Windows Vista Installation Methods
Windows 2000 / XP Installation
Network Installation
Unattended Installations
Clean Install of Windows Vista
Product Keys and Activation
Windows Update
Windows Vista Network Locations
Windows XP / 2000 Installation
Setup Issues
Demo – Install Vista
Post–Installation Tasks
Devices and Drivers
Demo – Device Drivers
Driver Signing
Windows Vista Upgrade Paths
Upgrade Between Vista Versions
Pre–Windows Vista Upgrades
Pre–Upgrade Tasks
Hardware and Software Compatibility
Upgrade Process
Upgrades within Windows Vista
Upgrade Issues
Application Compatibility
Vista Program Compatibility Wizard
Windows 2000 Application Compatibility
Demo – Windows 7 Install
Module 19 Review
Module 20 – Safety and Maintenance
Safety and Maintenance
Office Hazards: Floor Surfaces
Office Hazards: Fire Safety
Fire Extinguisher Classes
Fire Extinguisher Types
Office Hazards: Electrical Safety
Office Hazards: Air Quality
Computer Hazards
Physical Hazards
Laser Printer and Copier Toner
Electrical Hazards
Incident Reporting
High–Voltage Interference: Outside
High–Voltage Interference: Inside
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
Electromagnetic Induction (EMI)
Minimizing High–Voltage Interference
Shielding and Filtering
Ventilation, Dust, and Moisture Control
Printer/Scanner Maintenance
Power Conditioning
Cleaning Computer Equipment
Live Demo – Maintenance
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
MSDS Hazard Ratings
Personal Protection by Rating
Ergonomic Workstations
Laptop Safety
Computer Equipment Disposal
Module 20 Review
Module 21 – Troubleshooting Hardware
Troubleshooting Hardware
Backing Up Files and Folders
Windows Vista Backup Utility
Automatic Backups
Windows XP Backup
Restoring Data
Restoring Files in Windows XP
Demo – Vista Backup
Hardware Related Symptoms
Power–Supply Problems
The Power_Good Signal
Troubleshooting Motherboards & CPUs
Motherboard and CPU Problems
Memory Problems
Drive Controller Problems
Video Adapter Problems
Sound Card Problems
Modem Problems
NIC Indicator Lights
Hard Drive Problems
CD Drive Problems
DVD Drive Problems
Module 21 Review
Course Closure




A+ Practical Application
Course Introduction
Course Introduction
Module 01 - Power Systems
Power Systems
Characteristics
Characteristics, continued
Alternating and Direct Current
Characteristics, continued 2
PC Power Supply
Voltage Selection Switch
Live Demo – PC Power Supply
Live Demo – Voltage Selection Switch
Standard Outputs
Power Connectors
Peripheral Power Connector
Floppy Power Connector
SATA Power Connector
Wire Colors
Live Demo – Wire Colors
Motherboard Power Connectors
Static Electricity
Preventing Static Buildup
Preventing Static Discharge
Safety Precautions
Installing a Power Supply
Selecting the Voltage
An AC Signal
Power Problems
Power Conditioning
UPS Software
Electrical Measurements
Using a Multimeter
Other Measures
Power Supply Problems
The Power_Good Signal
Module 01 Review
Module 02 – CPUs and Motherboards
CPUs and Motherboards
Firmware
CMOS
CMOS Configuration
CMOS Utility Access Examples
BIOS Configuration Procedure
BIOS
CMOS Configuration, continued
CMOS Configurable Settings
CMOS Settings, continued
Demo – Updating your PC?s BIOS Settings
Inside the Case
Live Demo – Outside the Computer
Live Demo – Inside the Computer
Chipsets
Northbridge and Southbridge
Northbridge/Southbridge, continued
CPU Packaging
PGA Package
SECC Package
Packages
Packages, continued
Sockets and Slots
Sockets and Slots, continued
Pentium with MMX CPU and Socket 7 Socket
CPU Performance
CPU Design Characteristics
CPU Characteristics, continued
Multiple–Processor Support
Processor Specifications
Cooling Techniques
CPU Installation
CPU Retaining Clips
Installing a CPU
Live Demo – Replacing a CPU
Motherboards
Motherboard Installation
Installing a Motherboard
The CMOS Battery
Replacing CMOS Battery
Live Demo – Replacing the CMOS Battery
BIOS–Related Problems
BIOS Updates
Flashing the BIOS
BIOS Update Guidelines Recovering from a Failed Update
POST–Related Problems
Beep Codes
Numeric Codes
Logo Screen
The Boot Process
The Boot Process, continued
CMOS–Related Problems
Motherboard and CPU Problems
Module 02 Review
Module 03 – Memory Systems
Memory Systems
Memory
Measuring Memory
Larger Memory Units
Memory Types
Volatile vs. Non–Volatile Memory
Dynamic vs. Static Memory
Asynchronous vs. Synchronous
Memory Installation Considerations
Banking Requirements
Proper Handling
Inserting Memory Modules
Removing a Module
Package Types
Package Types: Desktops
Package Types: Laptops
Package Types: Printers
Demo – Legacy Memory Modules
Live Demo – New Memory Modules
Notebook Memory
Live Demo – Notebook Memory
Shared Video Memory
Memory in Handheld Computers
Monitoring Memory Usage
Demo – Monitoring Memory Usage
Optimizing the Page File
Demo – Changing the Size of the Windows Page File
Memory Testing
Memory–Related Problems
Module 03 Review
Module 04 – Expansion Cards
Expansion Cards
Buses
Buses, continued
VESA Local Bus
Expansion Bus
Expansion Bus Types
PCI Bus Slots
Video Bus
An AGP Video Bus Slot
The Riser Bus
Three Riser Standards
Live Demo – Identifying Graphics Connections
System Interaction
Interaction Mechanisms
Interrupts
Viewing Process
Demo – Examining Running Processes
Device Manager
IRQs
Device Manager: IRQs
I/O Addresses
Device Manager: I/O Addresses
Base Memory Addresses
Typical Base Memory Addresses
Device Manager: Base Memory
DMA Channels
Device Manager: DMA Channels
Resource by Device Type
Demo – Device Manager
Safe Handling
Drivers
Installing an Expansion Card
Installing an Expansion Card, continued
Video Adapters
Video Adapter Slot Types
Live Demo – Installing a Video Adapter Card
Sound Cards
Installation of Sound Cards
Updating Drivers
Demo – Searching For and Installing Updated Drivers
Video Card Problems
Sound Card Problems
Troubleshooting Serial Connections
Troubleshooting Parallel Connections
Troubleshooting PS/2 Connections
Troubleshooting USB Connections
Troubleshooting IEEE 1394 Connections
Troubleshooting Wireless Connections
Troubleshooting Multimedia Connections
Loopback Plugs
Module 04 Review
Module 05 – Data Storage Devices
Data Storage Devices
Physical Installation
ATA Drive Identification
SCSI Drive Identification
Chassis Installation
Data Cable Connections
Power Cable Connections
Solid–State Drives
Solid–State Drive Advantages
Magnetic Drive Advantages
Hard Drive Connections
Drive Preparation Steps
Low–Level Formatting
Partitioning
Partition Types
Partitioning Utilities
Formatting
File Systems
FAT File System
NTFS File System
FAT vs. NTFS
Disk Management
Demo – Partitioning and Formatting a Hard Drive
Fault Tolerance
RAID Levels
RAID Levels, continued
Choosing a RAID Level
Striped Volumes
Mirrored Volume
RAID–5
RAID–5, continued
Software and Hardware RAID
Hardware RAID Advantages
Demo – Exploring Fault Tolerance
CD Drive Components
Live Demo – CD Drive Components
Other CD Drive Components
CD Drive Speeds
DVD Drives
DVD Types
Blu–Ray Drives
Optical Drive Installation
Optical Drive Connections
Drivers
USB Flash Drives
USB Flash Drives, continued
Hot–Swapping
Live Demo – Hot–Swapping
Booting From Flash Drive
Floppy Controller Resources
Floppy Drive Cable
Floppy Drive Cable, continued
Floppy Controller Connectors
File Organization Problems
Defragging
Defrag.exe
Demo – Running defrag.exe
Checking a Disk for Errors
Chkdsk
Demo – Running chkdsk.exe
Recovering Disk Space
Demo – Using Disk Cleanup
Recovering Deleted Files
Third–Party Diagnostic Utilities
Troubleshooting Hard and Floppy Drives
Troubleshooting CD Drives
Troubleshooting DVD and Blu–Ray Drives
Troubleshooting External/Removable Drives
Module 05 Review
Module 06 – Printers and Scanners
Printers and Scanners
Printer Maintenance
An Inkjet Printer
Inkjet Cartridge Print Heads
Inkjet Printers
Laser Printer
Live Demo – Performing Printer Maintenance Tasks
Consumables
Demo – Install Local Printer / Optimize Printing / Browse Printer Properties
Scanner Maintenance
Printer Troubleshooting
Testing the Application
Testing the Printer
Operating System and Drivers 1
Connections
Connections, continued
Dark Images
Light or Weak Images
Repetitive Image Defects
Ghosting and Shadows
Smearing
Banding
Focus
Voided Areas
Registration, Jitters, Skew
Misaligned Color Registration
Weak Color, Missing Color
Vertical and Horizontal Lines
Black or Blank Pages
Transport/Feed Issues
Transport/Feed Causes
Scanner Troubleshooting
Application
Operating System and Drivers 2
Scanner Connections
Image Quality Issues
Faxing Issues
Module 06 Review
Module 07 – Mobile Computing
Mobile Computing
Windows Mobility Center
Power–Saving Modes
Power Lights
Power Plans (Vista)
Demo – Configuring Power Settings
Sleeping and Hibernating Notebooks
Replacing Components
Hot–Swappable Components
PC Card Types
Type II PC Card
Live Demo – Using PC Cards
Bus Connections
Card and Socket Services
Safely Remove Hardware
Non–Hot–Swappable Components
Mini PCI Card
Upgrading Memory
Drives
Network Adapters and Modems
Other Components That May Need To Be Replaced
Peripherals
Notebook Computer Issues
Display Issues
Notebook Computer Issues, continued
Troubleshooting Power Problems
Power Issues with Handhelds
Module 07 Review
Module 08 – Windows Management
Windows Management
The Command–Line Utility
Directory Structures
Windows Default File Structure
Navigation
Command (cmd)
Dir
/a:attributes
/o:sortorder
Wildcard Characters
Chdir (cd)
Windows Explorer
Help
Demo – Command Prompt
Demo – Navigating a Directory Tree
Creating Directories 1
Spaces in Commands
Demo – Creating Directories
Copying Directories 1
Copy
Xcopy
Copying in Windows Explorer
Windows Explorer in Vista
Windows Explorer in XP
Directory Structure
Navigating Directories
Creating Directories 2
Copying Directories 2
Removing Directories
Demo – Copying a Directory and Its Contents
Removing Directories, continued
Demo – Removing Directories
Creating Text Files
Creating a Text File with Edit
Creating a Text File in Notepad
Editing Text Files
Editing a Text File with Edit
Editing a Text File in Notepad
Demo – Create and Edit Text file
Volume Mounting
Demo – Mounting a Volume
Services
The Services Console
Service Properties
Demo – Configuring Windows Services
The Net Command
Demo – Using the Net Command
The Startup Program Group
Demo – Observing the Startup Program Group
Regional and Language Settings
Demo – Exploring Regional and Language Settings
Indexing
Demo – Modifying Indexing Settings
Technical Requirements
Personalization Settings
Demo – Personalizing the Appearance of Windows
Windows Aero
Windows Aero Features
3D Windows Flip
Troubleshooting Windows Aero
The Sidebar with Gadgets
The Gadget Gallery
Gadget Settings
Remote Assistance
Remote Desktop
Connecting to Remote Desktop
Demo – Making a Remote Desktop Connection
Module 08 Review
Module 09 – Windows Maintenance
Windows Maintenance
Resource Overview
Performance Monitor
Performance Objects
Bottlenecks
Demo – Monitoring Performance
Configuring Performance Monitor
Demo – Customizing Performance Monitor
Reliability Monitor
Task Manager
Task Manager Tabs
Task Manager in Windows Vista
The Applications Tab
Demo – Monitoring Applications
The Processes Tab
The Networking Tab
The Users Tab
Windows Diagnostics 1
Event Viewer
Windows Logs
Event Information
Event Types
An Event Properties Dialog Box
Demo – Viewing the Event Logs
Sorting Events
Filtering Events
Backups
Backup and Restore Center
Backup Modes
BackupTypes in Windows XP
Windows Backup in Windows Vista
Scheduling Automatic Backups
Demo – Scheduling a Backup
Restoring Files
System Restore
Demo – Creating a Restore Point
Restoring a System
Task Scheduler
Demo – Creating a Basic Task
Computer Startup Problems
Boot Errors
Boot Errors, continued
Startup Errors
Startup Errors, continued
Operating System Load Errors
OS Load Errors, continued
Startup Modes
Startup Modes, continued
Advanced Boot Options Menu
Demo – Booting the Computer Using Advanced Startup Options
The System Configuration Utility
Three Startup Modes
Demo – Using the System Configuration Utility
Windows Diagnostics 2
The System Information Window
Remote PC?s System Information
The ver Command
System File Checker
Module 09 Review
Module 10 – SOHO Networking
SOHO Networking
Network Connection Types
POTS/PSTN
ISDN
DSL
Cable
Cable, continued
Satellite
Satellite, continued
Wireless
Cellular
3G Networks
4G Networks
Bluetooth
NAT
Firewalls and Proxies
Ethernet
Ethernet Mediums
Ethernet Standards
Ethernet Standards, continued
Wireless Connection Components
Wireless NICs
Wireless Access Points
Wireless Speeds
WAP Placement
802.11 Standard
802.11 WLAN Standards
Network Protocol
Wireless Protocols
Demo – Install Network Protocol
WLAN Security Risks
Additional Risks
WLAN Security Components
WLAN Security, continued
Transmission Encryption
802.1x Authentication
WP Configuration
Securing your AP
Securing your AP, continued
Demo – Configuring a Wireless Access Point
Wireless Clients
Wireless Auto Configuration
Auto Configuration, continued
Windows CE Wireless Clients
Demo – Configuring a Wireless Client
Module 10 Review
Module 11 – Network Troubleshooting
Network Troubleshooting
Hardware Toolkit
Additional Tools
Software Toolkit
Live Demo – Identifying Common Toolkit Components
Troubleshooting Wired Connections
Cable Testing Devices
Physical Cable Tests
Network Analyzer
Network Optimization
Troubleshooting Wireless
Common Problems
TCP/IP Utilities
IPConfig
Demo – Examining Addresses IPConfig / All
Ping
Demo – Ping
Troubleshooting with Ping
Demo – Testing TCP/IP Connectivity
NSLookup and Tracert
Demo – Using NSLookup and Tracert
Port Addresses
Service Port Numbers
Demo – Using Port Numbers
Other Client Connection Issues
Windows Network Diagnostics
Demo – Troubleshooting with Windows Network Diagnostics
Module 11 Review
Module 12 – Security
Security
Causes of Compromised Security
Technology Weaknesses
Configuration Weaknesses
Human Error and Malice
Social Engineering
Dumpster Diving
Online Attacks
Social Engineering Countermeasures
Viruses, Worms, Trojan Horses
Worms
Trojan Horses
Antivirus Software
Spyware
Windows Defender
Spybot Search and Destroy
Configuring Windows Defender
Blocking, Disabling, Removing
Demo – Disabling a Program
Getting the BIOS Version
Updating the BIOS
User Account
Privileges
Manage Accounts
Creating a User Account
Demo – Creating Local User Accounts
Password Rules
Password Recommendations
Creating a User Password
The Password Creation Screen
Requiring a New Password
Disabling an Account
User Account Control
Elevation Prompts
Tasks Needing Admin. Privileges
UAC Configuration
Demo – Configuring UAC
File System Security
Sources of “Access Denied” Errors
Moving vs. Copying
File Attributes
Effective Permissions Tool
Shared Folders Console
Reviewing Share Permissions
Calculating Effective Permissions
Demo – Determining Effective Permissions
Windows Security Center
Security Center, continued
Windows Firewall
Demo – Displaying the Status of Windows Firewall
Configuring Windows Firewall
Demo – Creating Firewall Exceptions
Folder Encryption
Comparing BitLocker and EFS
BitLocker Hardware Requirements
Demo – Encrypting a Folder
Module 12 Review
Course Closure