Hardware & Maintenance Course Content
Here is a practical and clear outline for the Computer Hardware & Maintenance course. This covers from basics to hands-on skills, suitable for beginners:
1. Introduction to Computer Hardware
- Computer basics: input, output, processing
- Types of computers: desktop, laptop, server
- Hardware vs. software
2. Components of a Computer
- Motherboard: slots, ports, chipset
- Processor (CPU): types, installation
- RAM: types, capacity, installation
- Storage: HDD, SSD, SATA vs. NVMe
- Power Supply Unit (PSU)
- Graphics Card & Expansion Cards
- Input/Output devices: keyboard, mouse, monitor
3. Assembling a Computer (Desktop)
- Safety precautions
- Mounting the motherboard
- CPU and cooling installation
- Installing RAM
- Adding storage devices
- Power supply connections
- Connecting front panel, USB, audio ports
- Graphics card and peripheral setup
4. BIOS/UEFI & System Boot Process
- BIOS/UEFI basics
- Changing boot order
- Updating BIOS
- System startup troubleshooting
5. Operating System Installation
- Preparing bootable USB
- Installing Windows/Linux
- Driver installation
- Basic OS configuration
6. Troubleshooting & Diagnostics
- Identifying common hardware issues
- POST errors and beep codes
- Replacing faulty RAM, storage, PSU, etc.
- Diagnosing motherboard and CPU problems
7. Laptop Hardware Overview and Repair
- Internal structure differences from desktop
- Replacing/Upgrading RAM and storage
- Keyboard, display & battery replacement
- Disassembly and dust cleaning
- Basic soldering for loose connections
8. Preventive Maintenance
- Cleaning procedures (internal & external)
- Thermal paste reapplication
- Fan and cooling maintenance
- Dust management and cable organization
9. Peripherals & Accessories
- Printer, scanner setup
- External storage (USB drives, external HDDs)
- Monitor calibration & troubleshooting
10. Basic Networking Setup
- Connecting to WiFi/LAN
- Sharing files & printers in a small network
- Troubleshooting network hardware
11. Data Safety & Backup
- Data recovery basics (with software)
- Backup systems: external drives, cloud
12. Practical Project
- Assembling a full desktop from parts
- Troubleshooting simulated faults
- Installing and configuring operating system
After this course, you will be able to assemble, repair, and maintain both desktop and laptop computers in a practical way. If you want, I can suggest mnemonics to help remember the order of assembly or review any section for you. Let me know if you want the notes more basic or advanced!