ET-481: Personal Computer Technology, Architecture and Troubleshooting

Course Information

Course, prefix, number, & title: ET-481 Personal Computer Technology, Architecture and Troubleshooting

Hours (Class, recitation, Laboratory, studio): 1 lecture hour, 3 laboratory hours

Credits: 2

Pre-requisites (if any): ET-501 or ET-504 or Permissions of the Department

Course Description in college catalog:

Essential concepts in PC architecture, application and history are demonstrated via this hands-on course in moderm PC computing technology. This course covers the hardware and software concepts for CompTIA A+ Certification. Completion of this course requires the successful construction, configuration and troubleshooting of a personal computer. Topics include a comprehensive overview of internal PC components, operating systems and diagnostics.

Academic programs for which this course serves as a requirement or an elective:

A.A.S. Computer Engineering Technology

A.A.S. Electronic Engineering Technology

A.A.S. Internet and Information Technology

Certificate Program - New Media Technology

General Education Outcomes: Below is a listing of General Education Outcome(s) that this course supports.

  1. Use analytical reasoning to identify issues or problems and evaluate evidence in order to make informed decisions

Course-specific student learning outcomes:

Course objectives/expected student learning outcomes
Course Objectives Learning Outcomes
To learn about different types of hardware used in the current industry and home environments. Students are able to put together a computer, identifying the hardware used and configuring different combinations.
To learn about different types of Operating Systems and software titles used in the current industry and home environments. Students are able to install, configure, and update current x86 and x64 Operating Systems associated with current technology.
To learn how to troubleshoot common problems associated with everyday use of computer and computer-related technology. Students are able to repair with hardware and software issues associated with current world technology

Program-specific outcomes

An ability to apply the knowledge, techniques, skills, and modern tools of the discipline to narrowly defined engineering technology activities.  

An ability to conduct standard tests and measurements, and to conduct, analyze, and interpret experiments. 

An ability to apply written, oral, and graphical communication in both technical and nontechnical environments; and an ability to identify and use appropriate technical literature.

Other program outcomes (if applicable).

  1. Integrate knowledge and skills in the program of study

Methods by which student learning will be assessed and evaluated; describe the types of methods to be employed; note whether certain methods are required for all sections:

Assessment Methods used to determine the success of students may include computer exams and quizzes, oral questions, computer lab experiments, among other options.

Assessments include:

  • Weekly Reading Assignments
  • Weekly Quizzes
  • 7 Lab Assignments
  • 1 Practical Exam
  • 1 Midterm Exam
  • Final Exam

Academic Integrity policy (department or College):
Academic honesty is expected of all students. Any violation of academic integrity is taken extremely seriously. All assignments and projects must be the original work of the student or teammates. Plagiarism will not be tolerated. Any questions regarding academic integrity should be brought to the attention of the instructor. The following is the Queensborough Community College Policy on Academic Integrity: "It is the official policy of the College that all acts or attempted acts that are violations of Academic Integrity be reported to the Office of Student Affairs. At the faculty member's discretion and with the concurrence of the student or students involved, some cases though reported to the Office of Student Affairs may be resolved within the confines of the course and department. The instructor has the authority to adjust the offender's grade as deemed appropriate, including assigning an F to the assignment or exercise or, in more serious cases, an F to the student for the entire course." Read the University's policy on Academic Integrity opens in a new window.

Disabilities
Any student who feels that he or she may need an accommodation based upon the impact of a disability should contact the Office of Accessibility Services in Science Building, Room S-132, 718-631-6257, to coordinate reasonable accommodations for students with documented disabilities. You can visit the Office of Accessibility Services website.

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