NCFE PC Maintenance & Networking

• Course Code: OCN333
• Award Level 2, Similar to - NVQ Level 2, GCSE (Grades A*-C)

This PC Maintenance and Networking distance-learning course is an innovative step-by-step course, which teaches you everything you need to know about PC hardware, the Windows operating system and communication and networks. The course contains detailed instructions, backed by IT Distance’s Learning renowned technical support service, to enable you to diagnose and correct faults in PC hardware, operating systems and common peripheral devices, such as printers and scanners.

Course Content

The course is organised into a series of individual lessons, each with its own practical exercises and assignments, which are briefly described as follows.

Lesson 1 - Introduction to PC Hardware
This lesson is designed to provide you with an overview of the development of computer technology from its inception more than 50 years ago to today’s powerful desktop systems. You will learn the basics about the major components of a computer system and how they combine to provide a cohesive system capable of processing millions of instructions per second. You will also learn about the main components of Microsoft’s Windows operating system.

The following topics are covered by this lesson:

• A short history of the computer
• Computer numbering Systems
• PC hardware components overview
• The role of computer operating systems
• Introducing the Windows operating system
• Lesson Review/Assignments.

Lesson 2 - Operating System
This lesson introduces you to the major Windows Operating System functions (including Windows 95/98/NT/ME/2000/XP) and is suitable for novices and experienced users alike.

The main topics covered are:

• The function of an Operating System
• A History of Windows, Installing the Windows Operating System
• Windows overview and glossary
• The Start Menu and Task Bar
• The Desktop and Clipboard, Windows Explore
• The Programs Menu
• The Windows Control Panel
• Windows Accessories
• The Microsoft Network and Dial-up Networking
• Setting up Printers
• Lesson Review/Assignments.

Lesson 3 – An Introduction to the Internet
On completion of this lesson, you will understand the terminology of the Net and be aware of both its history and its current status; you will learn about some of the basic web page design principles and be introduced to HTML, the language of the Internet.

The main topics covered include:

• Getting started and installing your software
• Getting connected to the Internet
• Choosing the right Internet Service Provider
• Setting up and registering your own Website
• A guided tour of the Internet
• An Introduction to Internet Explorer
• Email with Outlook Express
• An Introduction to HTML
• An Introduction to Microsoft’s FrontPage
• Lesson Review/Assignments.

Lesson 4 – PC Hardware Components
This lesson describes the individual components of a Personal Computer, identifying each component and discussing its function and connections in a precise but simple style avoiding the usual jargon found in most textbooks and hardware manuals.

The following components are described in detail:

• The power supply
• The motherboard and its on-board components
• Processors, RAM (Memory)
• Data Storage Devices
• Parallel and serial interfaces
• Video, Graphics and Sound Cards
• Lesson Review/Assignments.

 
Lesson 5 – Input/Output Devices
This lesson is designed to provide you with a thorough briefing on the principles of Input and Output Devices and Other External Devices.

The following topics are covered:

• Modems
• Monitors
• The Keyboard and Mouse
• Lesson Review/Assignments.

Lesson 6 – Diagnostics and Fault Finding
This lesson takes you step-by-step through the fault finding procedures required to diagnose a range of problems and solutions connected with a faulty PC; all you need is a screwdriver and perhaps a little help from your Course Director! The detailed yet simple instructions, together with close-up photographs and drawings take you through each procedure.

The following topics are covered:

• Important safety information
• PC case layout and I/O device connections
• Identifying the key Motherboard components
• Dealing with boot failure
• Diagnosing hard disk drive problems
• Diagnosing floppy disk drive problems
• Creating a boot disk
• Diagnosing CD-ROM problems
• Windows operating system problems
• System diagnostic tools
• The “Snooper” System Information Utility
• Diagnosing printer problems
• Other useful diagnostic tools
• Hardware and software conflicts
• Preventative maintenance procedures
• Lesson Review/Assignments.

Lesson 7: Data Communications & an Introduction to Networks
This lesson will look at how different data types (voice, data, image and video) is transmitted using technology and the various transmission media required to perform the data transfer, as well as the fundamentals to data communication and cost.

The main topics covered include:

• Data transmission
• Fundamentals of Data Communications
• Asynchronous and Synchronous Communications
• Transmission Efficiency
• An Introduction to Networks
• Ethernet Alternative Network Technologies
• Lesson Review/Assignments.

Lesson 8: Case Study
This lesson comprises of a practical assignment designed to test your understanding of the entire course.

Assessment

The home learning PC Maintenance & Networking course assessment takes the form of a series of written assignments, which are submitted and marked by your tutor. There is no external examination required.

Study Method

The course is designed for study by distance learning at home or at work. Students receive a course manual, assignments and study guide plus tutor support by mail or email. You can start at any time and plan your studies over a period of up to one year from the time of registration.

Qualifications

A successfully completed course leads to a Level 2 award in PC Maintenance & Networking from NCFE; a leading UK awarding body recognised by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority.

You can read more about NCFE and our awarding bodies here: Awards

• Course Content
• Assessment
• Study Method
• Qualifications/Accreditations
• Course Questions & Answers