Workshop: PC Engineering

Overview

To provide learners with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge to assemble, configure, upgrade, maintain, and troubleshoot personal computer hardware, software, and basic network connectivity.

Target Audience:

Aspiring PC technicians, IT support staff, hobbyists, and individuals seeking a foundation in computer hardware and repair.

Outline

Module 1: Introduction to PC Hardware and Software

• Computer Fundamentals: The function of a PC and the computing cycle (Input, Process, Output, Storage).
• Hardware Components: Identification and function of core components: case, PSU, motherboard, CPU, RAM, storage, GPU.
• Software Overview: Distinction between firmware (BIOS/UEFI), operating systems (Windows, Linux), and application software.
• Hardware Compatibility: Understanding form factors (e.g., ATX, mATX) and interoperability between components.
• Safety and Tools: Proper use of tools (screwdrivers, anti-static wrist strap) and electrostatic discharge (ESD) safety procedures.

Module 2: Motherboards and Processors

• Motherboard Anatomy: Sockets, chipsets, expansion slots (PCIe), RAM slots, headers, and connectors (SATA, M.2, front-panel).
• CPU Technology: Understanding processor specifications (cores, threads, clock speed, cache), architectures (Intel vs. AMD), and cooling solutions (air vs. liquid).
• BIOS/UEFI Firmware: Navigating the firmware interface, configuring boot order, enabling virtualization, and updating firmware.
• Practical Skills: Hands-on installation of a CPU, CPU cooler, and motherboard into a case.

Module 3: Storage Devices and Data Management

• Storage Technologies: Characteristics of HDDs, SSDs (SATA & NVMe), and optical drives.
• Storage Configuration: Partitioning, formatting (NTFS, exFAT, APFS), and drive initialization.
• RAID Concepts: Understanding RAID levels (0, 1, 5, 10) for performance and redundancy.
• Data Management: File systems, folder structures, and data migration techniques.
• Backup and Recovery: Implementing backup strategies and using tools for data recovery and system imaging.

Module 4: Network Configuration and Management

• Networking Fundamentals: TCP/IP basics, IPv4 addressing, subnet masks, default gateways, and DNS.
• Network Hardware: Purpose and setup of routers, switches, and network interface cards (NIC).
• Network Types: Configuring and securing wired (Ethernet) and wireless (Wi-Fi) connections on a client PC.
• Network Troubleshooting: Using command-line tools (ipconfig, ping, tracert) to diagnose and resolve connectivity issues.
• Resource Sharing: Setting up and accessing shared folders and printers on a local network.

Module 5: PC Maintenance and Repair

• Troubleshooting Methodology: A structured approach to problem-solving (e.g., Identify, Theory, Test, Plan, Implement, Verify, Document).
• Hardware Diagnostics: Troubleshooting POST issues, component failures, overheating, and power problems.
• Software Diagnostics: Resolving OS boot errors, driver conflicts, application crashes, and malware removal.
• Preventative Maintenance: Physical cleaning, managing startup programs, disk cleanup, defragmentation, and updating software/drivers.
• Professional Practice: Customer communication, documenting repairs, and ethical considerations.