This course teaches the function and maintenance of IBM PC compatible internal hardware. It includes diagnostics, removal and replacement of motherboards, video cards, hard drives, floppy drives, CDROM drives, network cards, and memory. It also teaches the appropriate use of operating systems and diagnostics tools for the installation and diagnostics of new hardware and installation of a computer operating system on a ‘virgin’ machine.

Entry Level Competencies:   A basic understanding of microcomputers, the keyboard, and DOS is desirable.

If you do well in this course, you will be able to:

• Understand the basic components of an IBM compatible computer and be able to identify and replace faulty components. 
• Identify what each part of the system does and therefore be able to identify the need for and be able to carry out upgrades to the computer's hardware. 
• Install Microsoft Windows 9X and trouble shoot Windows device driver installation, including how to identify and obtain the correct device drivers for hardware components.

The required textbook for this course is:

*NOTE: must purchase textbook online at stores such as Amazon.com*

• A+ Guide to Managing & Maintaing Your PC, Comprehensive, 6th edition, by Jean Andrews, Thomson Publishing

Additional Materials

• Small Flashlight 
• Strong needle nose pliers
• Screwdrivers (preferably magnetic)
  • Medium Philips (as long as possible)
  • Small Phillips
  • Medium Flat Head
  • Small Flat Head
• Container for screws

For information on how to order your textbooks, go to http://eli.nvcc.edu/books/

Call before going to a campus bookstore to make sure the materials are in stock. If you don't see what you need, ask for assistance. Each bookstore has a separate section for ELI courses. Print this page and take it with you to avoid confusion.

Your course grade will be determined by the exams, according to the following points:

There is 3 proctored exams in this course. You are expected to take proctored examinations at one of the NVCC campus Testing Centers. Be sure to allow enough time to complete your exam before the Testing Center closes; Testing Centers have specific policies relating to the administration of ELI exams. You will need to take a photo ID, your NovaConnect empl ID number, and the appropriate Exam Pass when you go to the Testing Center.  

For Testing Center locations, hours of operation and policies, click here.

For information on taking exams outside of the metropolitan area, click here.

I am here to help you succeed in this course. Occasionally questions or problems may arise. Here is how to contact me when they do:

E-mail : mbeattie@nvcc.edu
Telephone: (703) 323-3759

1. Use your web browser to connect to http://www.nvcc.edu/bbstart. Follow the directions to determine your email, Blackboard and VIVA account user names and passwords.
2. Access your email account and make sure you know how to use it; you will be required to use this account for all course-related email.
3. Log on to Blackboard at http://nvcc.my.vccs.edu.
4. Click on this course under "My Courses." Review the entire course to make sure you understand what will be required of you. Then start completing the assignments.

Please note that account generation takes approximately one week from the time of your paid registration. If you cannot log on after one week, contact the IT Help Desk. If you can log on to Blackboard, but your course isn't listed, please contact ELI or your instructor.