What Will I Learn in Computer Hardware Courses?

<h3 id="section---SkillsTaughtInComputerHardwareCourses">Skills Taught in Computer Hardware Courses</h3> <p>Many concepts, techniques, and terminologies are taught in computer hardware courses. Students will learn to build computers, troubleshoot hardware and software problems, networking, safety in the workplace, and basic electronics related to computer hardware. </p> <h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutComputerHardwareCourses">Important Facts about Computer Hardware Courses</h3> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td>Certifications</td><td> CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+</td></tr> <tr><td>Continued Education</td><td> Courses completed through Apple, Microsoft, CompTIA, Cisco, and other companies; recertification every 1 to 3 year period</td></tr> <tr><td>Fields of Study </td><td> Information Systems, Computer Science &amp; Information Systems</td></tr> <tr><td>Possible Careers </td><td> Computer repair technicians, information security, component level technicians, computer sales</td></tr> <tr><td> Median Salary (May 2021) </td><td> $128,170 (for computer hardware engineers)</td></tr> <tr><td> Job Growth (2021-2031) </td><td> 5% (for computer hardware engineers)</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <h3 id="section---BasicElectronics">Basic Electronics</h3> <p>This course covers the electronic and mathematical necessities of computer hardware. Scientific calculators are used as students learn how to measure direct and alternating current circuits. </p> <h3 id="section---ComputerHardware">Computer Hardware</h3> <p>Throughout such a course, you might learn how to take raw materials such as hard drives, motherboards, memory modules and different types of processing chips, and turn them into a working personal computer. Skills that you may focus on developing include basic soldering, metal fabrication, wiring, and circuit-board construction, as well as the identification of computer components. </p> <h3 id="section---TroubleshootingFundamentals">Troubleshooting Fundamentals</h3> <p>Computer troubleshooting or diagnostics is a step-by-step process through which you might learn to determine why a broken computer isn't responding. Coursework of this nature is designed to provide you with the tools necessary to locate and resolve the technical issues that are sometimes experienced by personal computers. </p> <h3 id="section---ComputerAssembly">Computer Assembly</h3> <p>Courses in computer assembly include laboratory exercises and hands-on experiences in which students learn to both assemble and troubleshoot computers. You will get to install hardware, various types of peripheral devices, software, and configure and upgrade PCs. Other operating systems are also covered. In order to be successful in this course it is highly advisable that students have a basic understanding of the use of computers and how they operate. </p> <h3 id="section---NetworkConcepts">Network Concepts</h3> <p>Networking can be done on a small scale through local area networks, or it might take on the broader dimensions of wide area networks. Courses that focus on the introduction to networking concepts can prepare students to perform tasks related to programming routers by using mathematics, subnetting, IP addressing, using network terminology, and other network standards. </p> <h3 id="section---SafetyIssues">Safety Issues</h3> <p>Maintaining both personal and workplace safety is essential when it comes to computer technology. As such, you may learn about personal safety as it pertains to correct-tool usage and appropriate clothing and accessories. The handling of hazardous materials, electrical safety components, and fire safety procedures might also be emphasized.</p>