Maintenance & Troubleshooting
Hands-on experience with computer hardware and system diagnostics
About the Course
The Maintenance & Troubleshooting course provides students with practical, hands-on experience in computer hardware, system maintenance, and technical problem-solving. This course bridges the gap between theoretical computer science and real-world IT operations.
Students learn to diagnose and resolve hardware and software issues, perform system upgrades, and understand the inner workings of modern computing devices. Through laboratory exercises and real-world scenarios, students develop technical skills that are immediately applicable in personal, academic, and professional settings.
This course is perfect for students interested in IT careers, those who want to build and maintain their own computers, or anyone seeking to understand the physical and operational aspects of computing technology.
Course Topics
Computer Hardware Fundamentals
- CPU architecture and performance characteristics
- RAM types, speeds, and capacity requirements
- Storage devices: HDDs, SSDs, and NVMe drives
- Motherboards, chipsets, and system buses
- Power supplies and electrical requirements
- Cooling systems and thermal management
System Assembly & Disassembly
- Proper handling of computer components
- Building a computer from individual parts
- Cable management and airflow optimization
- BIOS/UEFI configuration
- Component installation and removal procedures
- Safety protocols and ESD prevention
Operating System Installation & Configuration
- Windows, macOS, and Linux installation
- Partition management and disk formatting
- Driver installation and updates
- System optimization and performance tuning
- User account management and permissions
- Dual-boot and virtualization setups
Diagnostic Tools & Techniques
- Hardware diagnostic software and utilities
- System monitoring and performance analysis
- Event logs and error message interpretation
- Memory testing and CPU stress tests
- Disk health monitoring and SMART data
- Network connectivity troubleshooting
Preventive Maintenance
- Regular cleaning and dust removal
- Software updates and patch management
- Backup strategies and data protection
- Antivirus and security software maintenance
- Performance optimization techniques
- Creating maintenance schedules
Troubleshooting Methodology
- Systematic problem identification
- Isolating hardware vs. software issues
- Research and documentation skills
- Testing hypotheses and solutions
- Customer service and communication
- Creating technical documentation
Peripheral Devices
- Printers, scanners, and multifunction devices
- External storage and backup devices
- Monitors and display technologies
- Input devices: keyboards, mice, tablets
- Audio equipment and sound cards
- Webcams and video capture devices
Networking Basics
- Network card installation and configuration
- Router and switch setup
- WiFi configuration and optimization
- IP addressing and network protocols
- Network troubleshooting tools
- Basic network security practices
Hands-On Lab Activities
Students gain practical experience through extensive laboratory work:
- Complete System Build - Assemble a working computer from components, install OS, and configure drivers
- Diagnostic Challenges - Troubleshoot pre-configured systems with various hardware and software issues
- Component Upgrades - Perform RAM upgrades, storage replacements, and peripheral installations
- Data Recovery - Practice recovering data from failing drives and corrupted systems
- Network Setup - Configure home and small office networks with proper security
- Performance Optimization - Diagnose slow systems and implement solutions to improve performance
- Maintenance Documentation - Create detailed guides and troubleshooting flowcharts
Certification Preparation
This course provides foundational knowledge aligned with industry certifications:
- CompTIA A+ - Entry-level IT certification covering hardware and software troubleshooting
- CompTIA Network+ - Networking fundamentals and troubleshooting skills
- Microsoft Certified - Windows operating system expertise
While the course doesn't guarantee certification, it covers many topics found in these professional credential exams and prepares students for further study.
Career Applications
Skills learned in this course are directly applicable to various technology careers:
- IT Support Specialist - Help desk and technical support roles
- Computer Technician - Repair and maintenance services
- Systems Administrator - Enterprise system management
- Network Administrator - Network infrastructure management
- Field Service Technician - On-site technical support
- Tech Retail - Sales and support in technology stores
- Freelance PC Building - Custom computer building business
Tools & Equipment
Students work with professional-grade tools and equipment:
- Screwdriver sets and specialized computer tools
- Anti-static wrist straps and ESD-safe work surfaces
- Multimeters and power supply testers
- Cable testers and network diagnostic tools
- Thermal paste and cleaning supplies
- Various computer components for hands-on practice
- Diagnostic software and operating system installation media
Safety & Best Practices
Students learn critical safety protocols and industry best practices:
- Electrostatic discharge (ESD) prevention techniques
- Proper lifting and handling of equipment
- Electrical safety and power management
- Data backup and privacy protection
- Professional communication and customer service
- Documentation and record-keeping standards
- Environmental considerations and e-waste disposal
Real-World Applications
Skills from this course have immediate practical value:
- Save money by maintaining your own computers and devices
- Help family and friends with technical issues
- Build custom gaming or workstation computers
- Extend the life of existing equipment through upgrades
- Make informed purchasing decisions for technology
- Develop problem-solving skills applicable beyond computers
- Start a side business offering technical services
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is ideal for students who:
- Are curious about how computers work at a physical level
- Want hands-on technical experience
- Are interested in IT support or hardware careers
- Enjoy solving practical, real-world problems
- Want to build or upgrade their own computers
- Prefer learning by doing rather than theory alone
- Are considering technical certification programs