Standard

 

ELC 208 – Computer System Troubleshooting

Course Description

Emphasizes the use of diagnostics to isolate failures, replace the defective module or sub-system, and verify proper operation.  Topics include:  operating systems use, diagnostic programs, preventative maintenance, subsystem isolation, system preparation and verification, and service reports completion.

 

Competency Areas

Hours

 

Operating Systems Use

Class

2

Diagnostic Programs

D. Lab

3

Preventative Maintenance

P. Lab/O.B.I.

0

Subsystem Isolation

Credit

3

System Preparation and Verification

Service Reports Completion

 

 

Prerequisite/Corequisite:

ELC 121

 

Course Guide

 

Competency

After completing this section, the student will:

Hours

Class

D.Lab

P.Lab/

O.B.I.

OPERATING SYSTEMS USE

3

5

0

Operational tests

Perform an operational test on the computer using the appropriate and current operating system.

 

 

 

DIAGNOSTIC PROGRAMS

3

5

0

Hardware

Perform the following tests on the computer system:  processor, software, ROM, RAM, character set, keyboard, video, speaker, write protect system, disk speed, disk head alignment, print accuracy, and print quality.

 

 

 

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE

3

5

0

Data

Clean, lubricate, and adjust all required items using the appropriate technical data and necessary tools.

 

 

 

Tools

 

 

 

 

Procedures

 

 

 

 

SUBSYSTEM ISOLATION

4

10

0

Diagnostic tests for subsystems

Isolate the computer malfunction to a subsystem including, but not limited to, the main or motherboard, power supply, or auxiliary interface boards, (using the information obtained during the diagnostic test and other technical data).

 

 

 

 

Isolate the disk drive malfunction to a subsystem including, but not limited to, the circuits or mechanical drive (using the information obtained during the diagnostic test and other technical data).

 

 

 

 

Isolate the monitor malfunction to a subsystem including, but not limited to, the circuits or CRT (using the information obtained during the diagnostic test and other technical data).

 

 

 

 

Isolate the printer malfunction to a subsystem including, but not limited to, the circuits or mechanical section (using the information obtained during the diagnostic test and other technical data).

 

 

 

SYSTEM PREPARATION AND VERIFICATION

3

5

0

Procedures

Verify, using a complete, operational computer system and a variety of diagnostic and application programs, that the repaired component is operating correctly.

 

 

 

SERVICE REPORTS COMPLETION

4

0

0

Format

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.

 

 

 

 

Suggested Resources

 

Books

 

Electronic Servicing & Technology Staff.  (1996).  Computer troubleshooting and repair.  Indianapolis: Prompt Publications.

Goldberg, J.  (1994).  Troubleshooting electronic devices.  Albany, NY: Delmar.