This section introduces and explains common internal PC components. After finishing this section, you should be able to:
Describe the most common internal components of a typical computer system, including processor, RAM, motherboard, power supply, GPU, NIC, and cooling system.
Distinguish between the two main types of consumer-level CPUs.
Describe how computer processors execute instructions.
Follow guidelines to reduce electrostatic discharge when working with computers.
Identify various types of expansion slots on a motherboard.
Install a single memory module on the motherboard.
Disconnect a monitor from the video card and remove the card from the computer.
Install a video card with an HDMI connection and connect the PCIe power connector to the video card.
Connect a computer to a monitor using an HDMI cable.
Configure a monitor’s display resolution for full HD content
This section describes different types of computing devices. After finishing this section, you should be able to:
• Compare and contrast the features of various computing devices, including cost, screen size, computing power, portability, storage capacity, cases and form factors, and digital cameras. • Recommend computing devices based on user requirements.
This section explains how digital media is encoded, compressed, and stored in different file formats. After finishing this section, you should be able to:
• Describe how audio and video are stored digitally. • Distinguish between raster and vector images. • Select the best format for digital images. • Describe how RGB values determine pixel color. • Compare common image file types. • Describe the most common digital audio and video file formats. • Describe how 3D modeling is used for computer graphics. • Describe the difference between lossless and lossy compression algorithms. • Discuss how sampling rate and bit depth impact the quality of digital audio. • Discuss how file compression and image resolution impact the quality of digital images.
This section explains the basics of how computers work, including their use of the binary number system and the translation of physical signals into digital information. After finishing this section, you should be able to:
• Describe the binary number system used by computers to process data. • Describe how binary numbers can be translated into hexadecimal form. • Define bits and bytes. • Explain how physical signals are translated into digital information. • Describe the most common character encoding standards, including ASCII and Unicode. • Describe the most common units of measurement used for storage, throughput, and processing speed.
This section provides a brief history of computers and explains the basic principles of human-computer interaction. After finishing this section, you should be able to:
• Recall significant developments in the history of modern computing. • Identify uses of computers in today’s world. • Identify the basic functions of computers. • Describe various roles for today’s supercomputers. • Describe the basic principles of human-computer interaction.
This section defines three overlapping disciplines: Information Technology, Information Systems, and Computer Science. It then provides a detailed overview of the entire course. After finishing this section, you should be able to:
• Recall key moments in the history of information technology. • Define Information Technology, Information Systems, and Computer Science. • Describe why “systems thinking” is important in designing information systems. • Describe the main objectives of the course. • Identify new concepts and skills that you will master after completing this course. • Explain how this course will help you achieve your career goals. • Conduct online research on a career that interests you in information technology.
This section introduces various ethical issues associated with computer technology. After finishing this section, you should be able to:
• Describe ethical considerations related to evolving forms of technology, including artificial intelligence, workplace automation, personal privacy, and green computing. • Identify health and productivity issues related to technology, including ergonomics, blue light exposure, cyberloafing, and employee monitoring. • Distinguish between the legal and ethical aspects of issues such as security breaches, criminal use of data encryption, and the dark web. • Discuss the arguments for and against net neutrality.
