Combination of lecture and laboratory sessions. Lectures will provide traditional theory. Laboratory sessions will employ formative practical/assessment sheets.
Module Aim:
To familiarize the student with the hardware of computer systems, particularly the PC computing platform
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1
Identify the purpose of, configure, troubleshoot and replace the principal components/accessories of a PC and select appropriate PC specifications for various applications
LO2
Understand the basic construction of a computer system, understand the different manifestations of programs (e.g. HLL, assembly, machine code, etc) and learn how to develop simple assembly language programs.
LO3
Demonstrate practical skills such as the dismantling and reconstruction of a computer system, fault finding and repair, upgrading and the installation of additional components, both internally and externally.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
Module Content & Assessment
Indicative Content
Introduction and Fundamentals
What is a computer? Computer types - analogue, digital, hybrid; Quantities in computing; Computer classifications; PC components/technologies; System resources; Buying/building/upgrading a PC; Things to do with old PCs
Intel and AMD processors; Choosing a processor; Forthcoming processors; Installing a processor
Memory
Understanding memory; Putting CPU registers, primary and secondary storage into context; Cache; Access; Packaging; How much is enough?; Selection guide; Installing; Troubleshooting;
Storage devices
Overview - magnetic disks, optical disks, semiconductor storage
Keyboards
Switch Types; Styles; Interfaces; Choosing; Configuring; Cleaning; Troubleshooting and Repairing
Overview; Serial Ports; Serial Cables; Installing and Configuring Serial Port Hardware; Troubleshooting Serial Port Problems; Mapping Parallel Ports to LPTs