A Professional Hardware Maintenance 3-month course focuses on providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot computer hardware in a professional setting. The course is designed to prepare students for roles such as Computer Hardware Technician, IT Support Specialist, and Maintenance Engineer.

Here is an outline of the course structure:

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Computer Hardware

• Overview of Computer Components:
  • Understanding the basic components: CPU, motherboard, RAM, hard drives (HDD/SSD), power supply unit (PSU), etc.
  • Function and role of each component in a computer system.
• Types of Computers:
  • Desktops, laptops, servers, and workstations.
  • Differences in hardware requirements for each type of system.

Module 2: Assembling and Disassembling Computers

• Assembly of Computer Systems:
  • Step-by-step assembly of a desktop computer.
  • Installation of CPU, motherboard, memory, storage devices, graphics card, and power supply.
• Disassembly Techniques:
  • Proper methods for safely disassembling computers.
  • Handling and storing components to avoid damage.

Module 3: Computer Hardware Repair

• Identifying Common Hardware Problems:
  • Diagnosing issues with the power supply, motherboard, RAM, and hard drives.
  • Troubleshooting failure symptoms such as system crashes, blue screens, and hardware malfunctions.
• Repairing Faulty Components:
  • Replacing and repairing faulty RAM, hard drives, and power supply units.
  • Cleaning components and maintaining internal hardware to ensure optimal performance.
• Testing and Verifying Repairs:
  • Using diagnostic tools to test repaired systems.
  • Verifying proper function after repairs.

Module 4: Installing and Upgrading Hardware

• Installing New Hardware Components:
  • Adding or upgrading RAM, storage (HDD/SSD), graphics cards, and peripherals (printers, monitors).
  • Installing and configuring new hardware for improved system performance.
• Upgrading Computer Systems:
  • Planning and executing hardware upgrades to increase performance (e.g., upgrading RAM, adding SSDs).
  • Compatibility issues and ensuring hardware is correctly installed and configured.

Module 5: Operating System and Driver Installation

• Installing Operating Systems:
  • Clean installation of Windows, Linux, or other OS on a newly assembled or repaired system.
  • Partitioning and formatting drives for OS installation.
• Installing Device Drivers:
  • Installing and updating drivers for hardware components such as printers, graphics cards, sound cards, and network cards.
  • Troubleshooting driver-related issues.

Module 6: Computer Maintenance and Optimization

• Routine Maintenance Tasks:
  • Cleaning internal components (dusting, cooling fans).
  • Checking for hardware malfunctions and monitoring system health.
• Optimizing System Performance:
  • Disk defragmentation, optimizing boot time, and updating software to enhance system speed.
• Power Management and Cooling Systems:
  • Managing system power settings and troubleshooting overheating problems.
  • Understanding cooling systems (fans, heat sinks, liquid cooling) and maintaining them.

Module 7: Networking Hardware Maintenance

• Networking Hardware Components:
  • Overview of network-related hardware such as routers, switches, network cables, and modems.
  • Understanding wired and wireless network hardware.
• Maintaining Network Devices:
  • Diagnosing issues with network connections (wired and wireless).
  • Troubleshooting routers, switches, and modems.
  • Configuring and maintaining basic home or office network setups.

Module 8: Professional Practices in Hardware Maintenance

• Professional Etiquette and Customer Service:
  • Communicating with clients or users regarding hardware issues.
  • Handling service requests, repairs, and consultations professionally.
• Inventory Management and Documentation:
  • Keeping track of hardware inventory.
  • Documenting repairs, upgrades, and maintenance activities.

Practical Sessions and Hands-On Training:

• Computer Assembly and Disassembly:
  • Students will practice assembling and disassembling various types of computers.
• Hardware Repair Work:
  • Hands-on experience in identifying and repairing common hardware issues.
• Networking Hardware Setup and Maintenance:
  • Setting up and troubleshooting network hardware in real-world scenarios.
• Simulated Troubleshooting:
  • Identifying and fixing hardware failures in a controlled, hands-on lab environment.

Certification Requirements:

• Completion of Practical Assignments: Students will need to complete hands-on assignments and repair tasks.
• Final Examination: A practical and theoretical exam will assess the students' knowledge and skills.
• Project Work: A final project to demonstrate the student’s ability to diagnose and repair computer systems.