Unit 25: Computer Systems

Unit code: M/601/7261

QCF Level 3: BTEC Specialist

Credit value:10

Guided learning hours: 60

Aim and purpose

The aim of this unit is to enable learners to understand the components of computer systems and develop the skills needed to recommend appropriate systems for business purposes and set up and maintain computer systems.

Unit introduction

At some stage most IT professionals will have to set up and customise a computer system or systems. To do so effectively they will need to understand the components that make up computer systems. The operating system interacts with the hardware and software components in order to make a functioning machine.

In this unit learners will consider a range of hardware and come to understand the technical specifications of components. There are a number of different operating systems, despite the dominance of the Microsoft operating system, and learners will explore at least one other. In terms of software, the operating system itself often provides utility programmes that assist the user in managing the machine. Other third party software utility programmes such as virus checkers are also used extensively. This unit considers both types of utility software. 1.1 explain the function of computer hardware components

IT professionals will often be asked to recommend systems for varied user needs. There are many different manufacturers of computer systems and each manufacturer produces a wide range of models with different specifications. Deciding which particular model is appropriate for a given situation depends on a variety of factors. These factors are explored in this unit so that learners can make informed choices when recommending computer systems.

IT professionals also need to develop the skills required to install and configure computer systems. A large part of this unit will involve practical work in installing hardware components and software, configuring systems to meet specific requirements and testing to ensure a fully functioning system is produced

Learning outcomes and assessment criteria

In order to pass this unit, the evidence that the learner presents for assessment needs to demonstrate that they can meet all the learning outcomes for the unit. The assessment criteria determine the standard required to achieve the unit.

On completion of this unit a learner should:

Unit 25: Computer Systems

Unit content

3 Understand the components of computer systems

Internal system unit components: processors; motherboard; BIOS; power supply; fan and heat sink or cooling; hard drive configuration and controllers eg SATA, IDE, EIDE, master, slave; ports eg USB, parallel, serial; internal memory eg RAM, ROM, cache; specialized cards eg network, graphic cards

Peripherals: output devices eg monitor, printer, plotter; input devices eg camera, scanner; cabling eg coaxial, optical, twisted pair

Backing storage: types eg disks, pen drives, optical media, flash memory cards; portable and fixed drives; performance factors eg data transfer rate, capacity 1.1 explain the function of computer hardware components

Operating system software: operating system examples eg LINUX, Windows, DOS, MAC OS; command line and GUI operating systems; operating system functions and services eg machine and peripheral management, security, file management; device drivers; features eg ability to customize, support for connectivity of portable media, security, stability and reliability, ease of management, associated utilities, cost and support for the user.

Software utilities: security eg virus protection, firewalls; clean up tools eg for removal of cookies, internet history, defragmentation; drive formatting

2 Be able to recommend computer systems for a business purpose

Considerations for selection: cost; user requirements eg software to be used, network sharing, need for maintenance contract, outputs required, need for integration with other systems eg home entertainment; processing power, storage capacity, accessibility for disabled users, the ICT competence of the intended user, training requirements

3 Be able to set up and maintain computer systems

Connect and set-up: equipment eg monitor, printer, modem/router, keyboard, mouse, speakers, microphone, RAM, hard drive

Install hardware: components eg graphics card, sound card, CD/DVD drive

Install software: operating system software eg Windows; applications software eg Microsoft Office; security software eg virus checkers, firewalls; device drivers; create appropriate directory/folder structures

Configure: BIOS configuration eg setting a BIOS password, editing power management options; editing anti-virus configurations; editing the desktop eg icon size, font size, colour, background, icon choice; creating start-up options; setting file sharing/permissions; creating and reconfiguring application toolbars

Testing: functionality eg software applications open and work as intended, default folder settings are correct, desktop shortcuts go to the right place, the correct device drivers are installed, the correct paper sizes are set for printing, menu options work as intended, the correct date and time are set

Routine maintenance: organisation and naming of files; back-up procedures eg online, off-line; backup media; automatic scheduling and deletion of unwanted data; archiving; defragmentation; deleting temporary files; cleaning hardware eg keyboard, mouse, display screen equipment (DSE), ventilation grills; replacing consumables eg printer paper, ink or toner cartridges; replacing damaged component

Essential guidance for tutors

Delivery

The way in which the content is ordered can guide the delivery as outlined in the outline learning plan.

To start with, learners could research the different internal and external hardware components of computer systems and develop their own ‘Dummies Guide’. They should be encouraged to investigate cutting-edge technology, not just the safe options. This can be supported with practical sessions where learners can see and handle the components. A stock of redundant or superseded components is a useful aid.

Facilities will need to be available for learners to practise installing both hardware and software components as outlined in the unit content. Note this is for stand-alone machines. This needs to be done under careful supervision, not least to ensure longevity of resources. Health and safety must be a priority and learners must be taught how to work in a safe manner. It should become second nature for learners to take appropriate precautions using static mats and wristbands when handling hardware components.

Health and safety issues relating to electrical appliances and use of tools also need to be addressed. 1.1 explain the function of computer hardware components

One possible strategy is for learners to first work on ‘dead’ computers, or even just components not in a casing, before progressing on to a ‘live’ machine as their skills develop.

Learners will need opportunities to practice configuring systems to meet specific requirements. A variety of requirements should be covered as outlined in the unit content.

Good practice in planning and recording testing should be developed as practical work progresses.

While it will be natural to concentrate on the operating system in use in the centre, learners must be given the opportunity to work with at least one other system, and understand other operating systems as outlined in the content.

A range of software utilities should be investigated. Learners will be familiar with virus protection and firewalls and useful research can be undertaken to discover the latest threats and barriers. It may be difficult for learners to use clean-up tools on the centre systems but they should understand the range and function of these tools.

Once a basic understanding of components is in place, learners can start researching component costs and compatibilities. It can be useful to compile a comparative table, which will help when it comes to assessment.

Using case studies will help learners to understand how to select a system set up for a particular user requirement. As many different scenarios as possible should be used. Commercially available computer systems should be investigated and assessed for compatibility as well as considering building a system from its component parts

Outline learning plan

The outline learning plan has been included in this unit as guidance and can be used in conjunction with the programme of suggested assignments. The outline learning plan demonstrates one way in planning the delivery and assessment of this unit.

Unit 25: Computer Systems

Assessment

The suggested assessment of this unit is by three assignments as summarised in the

Programme of Suggested Assignments (PSA) table. 1.1 explain the function of computer hardware components

Suggested Assignment 1 – Decoding the Jargon

For 1.1, evidence such as diagrams or photographs with clear supporting notes will be sufficient. An alternative form of evidence is a web page with hot-spots over different components explaining what the components are. The communication between components must be identified. It is possible that everything could be identified within one diagram.

Alternatively, learners could give a demonstration to the tutor with documented questions and answers or undertake a short test. However, if a test is used, learners must show competence in all areas of the unit content and not just achieve a certain percentage. Potentially a detailed diagram or poster supplemented by a short test would be appropriate.

For 1.2, learners should outline the basic functions of operating systems in general, explaining how they are used to facilitate users.

Suggested Assignment 2 – The Best Solution

For this assignment learners will need to be given a detailed business requirement. This need not be the same as that for the installation assignment (see below), indeed separating the two may give more scope for varying the detail given to learners and allow for more unusual requirements to be included.

For 1.3, a table is an appropriate format for structuring the information. Learners are required to give one example from each category of software utilities defined in the content.

For 2.1, learners could present the evidence as a report or presentation. The choice of components should be briefly explained but may not make reference to all the user requirements. It is important that the final specification includes all the necessary hardware and software components for the system to work.

Suggested Assignment 3 – Setting up the System

Ideally, the same business requirement will be used for this assignment. However, that may not be possible, in which case another scenario can be used to match the hardware/software available for installation.

For 3.1, learners must install at least one hardware and one software component in a stand-alone system. This is best evidenced with a witness statement or observation record and screen shots. Learners must use suitable safety equipment/tools and pay due regard to health and safety issues.

For 3.2, learners must configure some basic system settings, such as left and right mouse buttons, power-saving options, screen resolution, desktop theme, font size, default language setting, default folder locations etc. They may have needed considerable prompting to do so. This is best evidenced with a witness statement or observation record and screen shots

For 3.3, evidence will be provided by a test plan and subsequent test results. Screen shots may be relevant. Any test failures should be explained, with reasons.

For 3.4, evidence will be provided by a short report with screengrabs.

Programme of suggested assignments

The table below shows a programme of suggested assignments that cover the assessment criteria in the assessment and grading grid. This is for guidance and it is recommended that centres either write their own assignments or adapt any Edexcel assignments to meet local needs and resources.

Links to National Occupational Standards, other BTEC units, other BTEC qualifications and other relevant units and qualifications

This unit forms part of the BTEC in IT sector suite. This unit has particular links with:

This unit maps to some of the underpinning knowledge from the following areas of competence in the Level 3 National Occupational Standards for IT (ProCom):

4.1 Systems Architecture

4.3 Human Needs Analysis

4.4 Systems Analysis

4.7 Systems Design.

Essential resources

Learners will need access to practical resources and suitable technology, they can also use simulators or multimedia tools to gain prior experience before handling ‘live resources’. 1.1 explain the function of computer hardware components

Employer engagement and vocational contexts

The use of vocational context is essential in the delivery and assessment of this unit. Learners will require access to computer equipment to enable them to gain a practical awareness and enable them to apply their knowledge and understanding in a practical situation.

There is a range of organisations that may be able help centres to engage and involve local employers in the delivery of this unit, for example:

• Learning and Skills Network – www.vocationallearning.org.uk
• Local, regional business links – www.businesslink.gov.uk
• National Education and Business Partnership Network – www.nebpn.org
• Network for Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths Network Ambassadors Scheme – www.stemnet.org.uk
• Work-based learning guidance – www.aimhighersw.ac.uk/wbl.htm
• Work experience/workplace learning frameworks – Centre for Education and Industry (CEI University of Warwick) – www.warwick.ac.uk/wie/cei

Indicative reading for learners

Textbooks

Anderson H and Yull S – BTEC Nationals IT Practitioners: Core Units for Computing and IT (Newnes, 2002) ISBN-10 0750656840, ISBN-13 978-0750656849

Fulton J – Complete Idiot’s Guide to Upgrading and Repairing PCs, 4th edition (Alpha, 1999) ISBN-10 0789722062, ISBN-13 978-0789722065

Knott G and Waites N – BTEC Nationals for IT Practitioners (Brancepeth Computer Publications, 2002) ISBN-10 0953884821, ISBN-13 978-0953884827

White R and Downs T – How Computers Work, 9th edition (Que, 2007) ISBN-10 0789736136, ISBN-13 978-0789736130

Journals Computer Weekly Which? Computer

Websites

www.bized.co.uk www.computerweekly.com www.wrx.zen.co.uk/magazines.htm