CompTIA's A+ certification has long been recognized as the industry standard for vendor-neutral validation of entry-level computer hardware and software skills. As of July 2007, the certification examination requirements for A+ certification have been changed to reflect recent advances in technology and hiring practices.

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Earning A+ certification still requires earning passing scores on two different exams. However, the content and structure of the required exams have changed.

Everyone will be required to successfully complete the A+ Essentials (#220-601) exam, covering both hardware and software. In addition to the A+ Essentials exam, A+ candidates will be able to choose their second exam from a pool of elective tests specific to particular specializations.

Elective Tests:

o 220-602 IT Technician

o 220-603 Remote Support Technician

o 220-604 Depot Technician

The new A+ certification exam emphasizes the combination of technical know-how and other issues necessary for success in the IT field. Because employers are seeking well-rounded and skilled workers for their entry-level IT field, the new A+ examinations were designed, with feedback from subject matter experts, to cover the complete skill sets needed by those seeking entry-level employment in information technology.

In addition to knowledge specific to hardware and operating systems, the new A+ certification exams also look for knowledge in areas necessary for one to be a well-rounded computer professional. For example, concepts related to environmental issues, professionalism, communication skills, safety, and security are now included in the exam.

When you are ready to take the new A+ exam, it is a good idea to use a practice test to help you determine if you would benefit from completing a certification preparation course. There are a number of excellent online, instructor-led, and video-based training programs that can help you polish your skills and knowledge.

When you are ready to take your exam, be sure to check around for the best deals on test vouchers and select a comfortable and convenient certification testing center that meets your needs.

CompTIA (Computer Technology Industry Association) developed the A+ certification to validate the knowledge skills of Computer service technicians.

To achieve the A+ Certification you must pass the:

o The Essential Exams covering fundamental computer concepts.

AND any one of

o IT Technician

o Remote Support Technician

OR

o Depot Technician Exams

COMPTIA A+ ESSENTIALS

- LESSON ONE

Identifying Personal Computer Components

You will learn here how to locate identify the following essential components of a computer system: Processors, memory, motherboards, visual display devices, ports & cables, cooling systems, input devices and adapter cards.

1. Motherboards

The motherboard also known System board or sometimes Planar board is the backbone of the computer. It is the most important component in a computer. The Central Processing Unit (CPU), Random Access Memory (RAM) slots, expansion slots etc are all attached to the motherboard.

Classification of Motherboard

There are two classifications of motherboard:

o Integrated and Non-integrated System Board - Nonintegrated system board has the major components sitting on an expansion cards while the integrated system board has the components built into the motherboard circuitry.

o Classification according to form factors- Advanced Technology Extended (ATX), micro ATX, Balanced Technology Extended (BTX), or New Low-profile Extended (NLX). The processor and memory slots are at right angle to the expansion cards in ATX motherboard. Micro ATX motherboards can be installed in standard ATX cases as well as small cases. NLX motherboard puts the expansion slots on a riser card such that expansion slots are parallel to the motherboard as opposed to the vertical orientation in the ATX form factor. BTX lines all comptia a+ course the heat-emitting components of the motherboard between air intake vents.

We will now go to the Components that make a typical System board in our next lesson.

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