Standard |
CIS 265 – Microcomputer Troubleshooting
Emphasizes the use of system theory and diagnostic routines to isolate failures, replace the defective module or subsystem, and verify proper operation. Topics include: basic system theory, operating systems use, diagnostic programs, subsystem isolation, upgrading systems, preventive maintenance, and service reports preparation.
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Competency Areas |
Hours: | |
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Basic System Theory |
Class |
4 |
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Operating Systems Use |
D. Lab |
6 |
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Diagnostic Programs |
P. Lab/O.B.I. |
0 |
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Subsystem Isolation |
Credit |
7 |
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Upgrading Systems |
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Preventive Maintenance |
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Service Reports Preparation |
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Prerequisite/Corequisite: |
Program admission |
Course Guide |
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Competency |
After completing this
section, the student will: |
Hours | ||
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Class |
D. Lab |
P.
Lab/ O.B.I. | ||
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BASIC SYSTEM THEORY
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5 |
5 |
0 | |
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Block diagram |
Draw a basic block diagram of a microcomputer. |
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General function |
Explain the general function of each block. |
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Components |
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OPERATING SYSTEMS USE |
8 |
15 |
0 | |
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Operational tests |
Using the computer’s operating system, perform operational tests to determine whether or not the hardware systems are functioning correctly. |
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Limitations |
Discuss the limitations of different versions of DOS, both MS and PC. |
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MEM command |
Use the MEM command to determine system memory usage. |
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Use the AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS files to enable the most efficient use of system memory. |
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Use the MEMMAKER command to enable efficient use of system memory. |
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DIAGNOSTIC PROGRAMS |
8 |
10 |
0 | |
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Update the information stored in CMOS. |
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Use reference disks to load CMOS with accurate system hardware information. |
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Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing diagnostic software such as MSD, Laplink, Norton Utilities, Spinrite, PCCheck, and Checkit. |
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Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing diagnostic software to test IRQ lines, parallel ports, and communication ports. |
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Demonstrate how to resolve common boot errors such as “Bad or missing Command Interpreter,” “Missing operating system,” “Bad Track 0,” and “Cannot read drive.” |
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Demonstrate how to overcome a CMOS password. |
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Demonstrate how to overcome a boot sector virus. |
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SUBSYSTEM ISOLATION |
6 |
10 |
0 | |
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Using information obtained during system fault diagnosis, isolate the malfunction in the following subsystems: motherboard, power supply, keyboard video, floppy disk drive, hard disk drive, CD-ROM, sound, mouse, modem. |
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UPGRADING SYSTEMS |
6 |
10 |
0 | |
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Discuss installation procedures for upgrading software and hardware. |
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Install a video driver. |
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Install an additional RAM. |
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Install a CD-ROM. |
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Install a hard disk drive. |
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Install a tape backup drive. |
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Install a Scanner. |
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PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE |
5 |
10 |
0 | |
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Discuss proper care for storage media. |
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Discuss ideas for the proper placement of the computer within the room. |
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Demonstrate techniques for maintenance of the files stored within the various storage media. |
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Perform hard disk drive maintenance using the Scandisk, Chkdsk, and Defrag DOS commands. |
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Demonstrate file compression techniques using the Drvspace or Dblspace DOS commands. |
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SERVICE REPORTS PREPARATION |
2 |
0 |
0 | |
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Prepare the proper documentation to indicate description of the component and serial number, date received and date completed, malfunction, corrective action, parts used, and any other data locally required. |
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Suggested Resources |
Minasi, M.: The Complete PC Upgrade and Repair.
Mueller, S.: Upgrade and Repair of PCs.