Computer Engineering Level One
Tom's Hardware Guide
One of the oldest sources of reviews and hardware on the web.
AnandTech
A serious source for hardware news and analysis.
Engineer Guy:
This site provides videos that explain complex technical information in a way that's much easier to understand.
Professor Messer:
This online video training site includes a free A+ certification training course - perfect for anyone who is ready to take the next step and get certified.
Wikipedia Guide to Optical Disk Drives
All about optical disk drives - different types, how they function, etc.
Guide to Hard Disk Drives
All about hard disk drives - different types, how they function, etc.
Guide to Floppy Disk Drives
All about Floppy disk drives.
Guide to External Hard Disk Drives
All about external hard disk drives - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide to Hard Disk Drives
PC Guide about Hard Disk Drive Performance Issues
All about hard disk drives - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide to Optical Disk Drives
All about optical disk drives - different types, how they function, etc.
101.02 - Motherboard Components
Wikipedia Guide to Motherboards
All about motherboards - different types, how they function, etc.
How Motherboards are Made
This ExtremeTech web article and slide show that suggests the manufacture of motherboards is not as automated as you might think.
PC Guide to Motherboards
All about motherboards - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Support - Motherboards
All about motherboards and support.
Wikipedia Guide to Power Supplies
All about power supplies - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide to Power Supplies
All about power supplies - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Support Guide to Power Supplies
All about power supplies - different types, how they function, etc.
Overclockers.com
How to overclock - tips and tricks.
Wikipedia Guide to CPUs
All about CPUs - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide to CPUs
All about CPUs - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Support Guide to CPUs
All about CPUs - different types, how they function, etc.
101.05 - Cooling Methods and Devices
Wikipedia Guide to Computer Cooling
All about cooling - different types and their effectiveness, etc.
PC Guide - The Importance of CPU Cooling
All about cooling - Why CPU cooling is important.
PC Support - PC Cooling
All about PC cooling - how to maintain a healthy computer with cooling techniques.
TechFAQ - SODIMMS
What is SODIMM? Small Outline DIMMs from Tech FAQs.
Upgrading Memory
Memory Upgrade information from Crucial, an online source for memory. This site has a tool that will allow you to scan your system to find out which type of memory your machine needs.
Computer Memory Upgrade Guide
Site telling all about memory upgrades and compatible memory even for older systems.
Wikipedia Guide to RAM
All about RAM - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide to SRAM
All about SRAM - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide to DRAM
All about DRAM - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Support Guide to RAM
All about RAM - different types, how they function, etc.
Wikipedia Guide to CRT Monitors
All about CRTs - different types, how they function, etc.
Wikipedia Guide to LCD Monitors
All about LCD Monitors - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Support - Monitors
All about monitors - different types, how they function, etc.
Wikipedia Guide to Video Cards
All about video cards - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide - Video Cards
All about video cards - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Support - Video Cards
All about video cards - different types, how they function, etc.
101.08 - Peripherals and Input Devices
Wikipedia Guide to Input Devices
All about Input Devices - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide to Input Devices
All about Input Devices - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Support - Guide to Understanding Computer Cables
All about computer cables - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide to Understanding Computer Ports
All about computer ports - different types, how they function, etc.
Wikipedia Guide to Hardware Ports
All about hardware ports - different types, how they function, etc.
Wikipedia Guide to Software Ports
All about software ports - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Cards
Here's the Wikipedia definition.
How Sound Cards Work
Sound Card overview from the “How Stuff Works” Web site.
Wikipedia Guide to Sound Cards
All about sound cards - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide - Sound Cards
All about sound cards - different types, how they function, etc.
Wikipedia Guide to Video Cards
All about video cards - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide - Video Cards
All about video cards - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Support - Video Cards
All about video cards - different types, how they function, etc.
Wikipedia Guide to Expansion Cards
All about expansion cards - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide - Expansion Cards
All about expansion cards - different types, how they function, etc.
101.10 - Laptop Components and Features
Laptop Battery Types
Article by eZine on laptop batteries.
How Laptop Displays Work
Article on laptop displays from How Stuff Works.
Wikipedia Guide to Bluetooth Technology
All about Bluetooth - what it is and how it works, etc.
Guide to Bluetooth Technology
All about Bluetooth - what it is and how it works, etc.
Wikipedia Guide to Infrared Ports
All about infrared ports - different types, how they function, etc.
Guide to Home Networking
All about Home Networking
PC Guide to Computer Ports
All about computer ports - different types, how they function, etc.
Wikipedia Guide to PC Cards
All about PC cards - different types, how they function, etc.
Guide to Networking
All about Networking
PC Guide to PC Cards
All about PC Cards - different types, how they function, etc.
Printer Types
Wow! I only thought there were like 3 types of printers. Here is a list of maybe 30 types of printers.
How Printers Work
How Stuff Works articles on how laser printers work, how ink-jet printers work, and how scanners work:
How Laser Printers Work
How Inkjet Printers Work
How Scanners Work
Printers: from Encarta
Information from Encarta on printers telling the difference between impact and non-impact printers along with serial and parallel transmission.
Wikipedia Guide to Printers
All about printers - different types, how they function, etc.
Guide to Wireless Technology
All about Wireless Technology - different types, how they function, etc.
Wikipedia Guide to Printer Drivers
All about printer drivers - different types, how they function, etc.
102.01 - Troubleshooting Theory
Wikipedia Guide to Troubleshooting
All about troubleshooting.
Guide to Troubleshooting
All about troubleshooting.
102.02 - Common Hardware and OS Symptoms and Causes
PC Handbooks by Dumbreck Publishing
This website is a guide to finding and fixing problems with PC's. It is designed for general computer users as a quick guide to tracking down faults.
Documentation
Technical Support Documentation
Hardware Faults
Wikipedia Guide to Computer Cooling
All about computer cooling - different types, how it works, etc.
Guide to Computer Cooling
All about computer cooling - different types,how it works, etc.
How to Diagnose a Computer Problem
OS Faults
Guide to Advanced Startup Options
All about advanced startup options - different types, how they function, etc.
Guide to Advanced System Recovery (ASR) Wizard
All about advanced system recovery.
Blue Screen of Death
How to fight the blue screen of death.
Guide to Advanced Troubleshooting
All about advanced troubleshooting for Windows XP.
How to Use Windows Task Manager
All about how to use Windows task manager.
Wikipedia Guide to Windows Task Manager
All about Windows task manager.
102.03 - Troubleshooting Printers
Upgrading Printers: A Guide from HP
Benefits of upgrading printers - from a printing company's viewpoint, anyway.
Do-It-Yourself InkJet and Laser Printer Repair (HP, Apple, Epson, and More) - fixyourownprinter.com
A great site for fixing your own printer. Search by printer type and find repair kits manuals, etc.
Resources for Troubleshooting Printing Problems in Windows XP
This article describes how to use the Printing Troubleshooter that is included in Microsoft Windows XP Help and Support Center. This article also provides a list of online support services that may help you solve your printing problem.
Common Printer Error Codes
This website lists error codes for HP, Lexmark, and Okidata laser printers, HP DeskJet and Okidata inkjet LCD codes are also listed here.
Microsoft Guide to Troubleshooting Printers
All about troubleshooting techniques with printers.
Troubleshooting Printers
All about troubleshooting techniques with printers.
Troubleshooting Inkjet Printers
All about troubleshooting techniques with inkjet printers.
Laptop Drive Compatibility
Memory vendor's article on laptop hard drive compatibility.
How to Upgrade Laptop Memory
Guide for instructing laptop users in upgrading laptop memory.
ExpressCard Hardware Standard
Wikipedia explanation of USB 2.0 and PCI Express support for laptops through PCMCIA ExpressCard.
Replacing a Laptop Processor
Here's a step-by-step guide for replacing a laptop processor - if you dare.
Laptop Disassembly
A step by step guide for replacing a laptop processor.
The Tech Guide: Disassembling a Laptop
How do you take a laptop apart? Here are several guides for Toshiba laptop disassembly.
Preventive Maintenance for Laptops
Article from Que Publishing on preventive maintenance for laptops which includes a list of do’s and don’t for long laptop life.
Wise Computing
Article that has sections on laptop cleaning and maintenance.
102.05 - Preventative Maintenance
Preventative Maintenance
Tips from Webopedia.
Upgrading
AllBusiness.com
When Should I Upgrade My Computer Hardware is an article on the pros and cons of upgrading.
Hardware Compatibility - Microsoft Technet
Hardware Compatibility List for Windows XP
Vista Compatibility - Microsoft
Hardware Compatibility List for Windows Vista
Guide to Liquid Cooling
All about liquid cooling techniques for your PC.
Overclocking
Want to know more about overclocking and how you can prevent it? Read this!
Guide to Computer Cooling
Don't want to have your computer cooked for breakfast? Read this!
103.01 - Operating Systems and Their Features
Windows 7 References and Key Links:
Compare Windows 7 Versions
Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor
Windows 7 Compatibility
Windows 7 Features
Windows Easy Transfer
Installing Windows 7 on a Netbook
Windows Virtual PC
Microsoft Technet:
Windows XP Professional Product Documentation. This is an excellent site for information on how to manipulate XP directly from Microsoft. For this topic the Performance and Maintenance section is very appropriate.
The Command Line in Windows:
This is a superb site for finding out information about the command line and the “Run” line. It is a very good place to send students for information on the commands that can be run using the command line.
The Elder Geek:
This is a longstanding web site with a wealth of very solid information. This particular page is for the disk management section which is very appropriate for this section.
NTFS.com:
Site gives a tabular comparison of the different windows file systems.
Wikipedia Guide to Operating Systems
All about the different types of Operating Systems and their specifications.
PC World Guide to Operating Systems
All about the different types of Operating Systems and their specifications.
PC Guide to Operating Systems
More intensive guide to operating systems.
Guide to Windows Aero
All about Windows Aero - what makes it so special?
Wikipedia Guide to Windows Operating Systems
More intensive guide to Windows operating systems.
Guide to Windows Tips
Need a tip on Windows Operating Systems? Look here!
PC Guide to Windows Command Line
A guide to Windows command line.
103.03 - Installing and Configuring Windows
Wikipedia Guide to Device Manager
A guide to Windows device manager.
Wikipedia Guide to Power Management
Techniques to reserve power.
PC World Guide to Power Management
How to save money on your power bill and how to preserve power on your PC.
Power Myths
Common power saving myths.
103.04- Boot Sequences, Methods, and Startup Utilities
Wikipedia Guide to Windows Updates
All about common Windows updates - what they do and why they are important.
PC Guide to Maintaining an Optimum PC
All about common techniques to maintain an optimum working PC.
PC World Guide to Space Saving
Space saving techniques on your PC.
104.01 - Networking Fundamentals
Javascript Number Base Converter
Convert from decimal to binary, binary to hex, hex to decimal... any variation you would want with this online converter.
IP Address Calculator
This tool calculates Network and IP addresses, and includes conversion tools as well.
Networking Basics
A must-see tutorial offering good graphics and animations illustrating networking concepts covered in this course. The explanations are aimed at a businesspeople audience but are very readable and understandable.
Networking 101: Served Right
This is a nice brief guide to the basics of networking provided with a touch of humor. It is certainly not meant to be comprehensive, but it will serve as an introduction to many of the topics covered in the networking portion of this course.
Network+ Guide (CompTIA’s Network+ 2005 Version)
Good site for delivering the “Cliff Notes” version of many basic networking topics. While a little technical in places, it could serve as a nice reference resource.
Networking Essentials Notes
This is a truly comprehensive site which delivers the essential information in outline form for nearly all topics of importance in networking fundamentals. A wonderful reference resource.
Practically Networked
Another must-see site. Has links to many, many good articles on nearly any networking topic imaginable. This is practical networking at its best!
Wikipedia Guide to IP Addressing
All about IP addressing - how to do it and why you want to do it.
PC Guide to working with IP Addresses
All about IP addressing - how to do it and why you want to do it.
104.02 - Network Cables and Connectors
How WiFi Works
Good introductory overview article on wireless network theory and setup from the “How Stuff Works” folks. Good graphics and simple explanations make this a good beginning point for wireless explorations.
How Bluetooth Works
Bluetooth technology allows electronic devices to communicate wirelessly. Learn about Bluetooth, Bluetooth headsets and how to link devices.
You can read more about 802.11 protocols at:
Wikipedia – 802.11
C/NET Reviews: 802.11n
Wikipedia Guide to Network Cables
All about networking cables - different types, how they function, etc.
PC Guide to Network Cables
All about networking cables - different types, how they function, etc.
Home Computer Networks 101
An absolutely amazing site. The material provided (replete with extensive diagrams and an amazing array of links to other informative materials and websites) is comprehensive and readable. Wired and wireless network information is extensively provided.
Wikipedia Guide to Dialup Networking
Wikipedia Guide to Broadband Networking
Wikipedia Guide to Wireless Networking
Networking for Beginners
All about networking for beginners - which is the best connection type for you?
Networking for Beginners: Quick Essential Facts for Every Internet User
From about.com, a nice guide to basic networking concepts.
105.01 - Security Concepts and Technologies
National Vulnerability Database
This site gives information on real vulnerabilities
Biometric Standards, Performance, and Assurance Laboratory
Publishes numberous journals and articles in the security area.
CERIAS
The center for education and research in information security.
Security Information
A great site for additional information on Security. Packed full of references.
Don't Get Phished or Pharmed
This blog post from CET teacher Scott Gupton illustrates hidden dangers on the Internet.
Wikipedia Guide to Data Security
A great site for additional information on Security. Packed full of references.
Top 10 Internet Scams
Read these top 10 Internet scams to prevent from identity theft.
PC Guide to Warranty Security
A great site for additional information on Security.
105.02 - Security Features on Computer Systems
McAfee Virus Info Site
Virus Information from McAfee including definitions and tools.
Symantec Virus Info Site
Symantec information on viruses and risks.
The Latest List
Up-to-date list of the latest viruses and other threats from Symantec.
Malware Info from TrendMicro
Information page from Trend Micro that has links for a virus encyclopedia, scams and hoaxes, spyware and phishing.
Microsoft Site
Microsoft documents the procedures on security features.
RSA
One of the oldest and most respected security sites.
CERT
THE place to go to find out about security vulnerablities.
Symantec
Web site for the most popular Antivirus software.
Compsec Online
Web site containing security publications.
Information Security
Online security publication.
SC Magazine
Security publication.
Wikipedia Guide to Malware
All about Malware - what it is and how to protect your PC.
Networking for Beginners: Anti-Virus Protection
Information about anti-virus protection for your PC.
Wikipedia Guide to Wireless Encryption
All about wireless encryption - what it is and why it is important.
Top Ten Terms for Internet Beginners
The top ten Internet terms that everyone should know.
106.01 - Safety and Environmental Procedures
Where to Find MSDS on the Internet
This site gives an excellent overview of what an MSDS is. Pay particular attention to the FAQ. Just for fun, check out the Unsafe Material Data Sheet.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration Home Page
Whenever discussing safety, OSHA is THE authority in the US. This site gives a lot of facts, procedures, and statistics. It’s not the most exciting site on the web, but is worth a visit.
EPA Guidelines for CRTs
From the Environmental Protection Agency.
Ergonomics.org
Applying the Alexander Technique in the Workplace.
This web site is dedicated to the exchange of information between the fields of ergonomics and the Alexander Technique.
The ESD Association
The ESDA is a professional voluntary association focusing on the effects and control of static electricity and electrostatic discharge (ESD). Literally everything you ever wanted to know about ESD and more.
OSHA Effective Ergonomics: Strategy for Success
Advice from the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
R.S.I. Page
A wealth of knowledge on Computer Related Repetitive Strain Injury and plenty of resources for RSI.
ArtistResource.org
This website lists hazards that come from computers and peripherals.
OSHA Computer Hazards
The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration's listing of computer workstations hazards and solutions.
Hazards Magazine
This page has a list of hazards to check for computer workstations.
Disposal of Old Computer Equipment
Article by Michael Meyers and others on the disposal of used computer equipment. This is a good read for those interested in the concerns of throwing computers away in the trash.
Computer Recycling Video
This video from "The Futures Channel" is a great look behind the scenes at a computer recycler.
ComputerHope.com
Computer disposal, donation and recycling page from Computer Hope, a site that offers "free computer help for everyone." This page speaks to the proper disposal of all types of computer equipment.
NC Hazardous Waste Rules
This page has links to all types of pages about every different type of waste possible and the disposal procedures for each.
The Value of High-Tech Trash
Convert the computer component metal properties to cash. The following link takes the weighted metals (gold) and converts it to a US Cash currency value.
This is useful to help understand the motivation behind the companies recycling computer components.
Where to Find MSDS on the Internet
This site gives an excellent overview of what an MSDS is. Pay particular attention to the FAQ. Just for fun, check out the Unsafe Material Data Sheet.
The Environmental Protection Agency
This site gives information on legal fines and penalties for those parties that do not follow proper disposal procedures for hazardous waste such as those found in most computer and electronic components.
Wikipedia Guide to Electrical Safety
Top Ten Electrical Safely Tips
106.02 - Communication Skills and Professionalism
Good Character
This website has teacher strategies to teaching teen goal setting. Included is a section on how to set goals, discussion questions, activities, and writing assignments.
Goal Achiever
Personal goal setting website that includes six steps to achievable goals. Each step spells out a list of things for the goal setter to do to achieve the goal.
SkillsUSA Website
This is the official site of the Trade and Industrial Career and Technical student organization. This site has all the information needed for membership and leadership and skills competitive events.
CompTIA's A+ Certification
Computer Engineering I & II will help prepare you for CompTIA's A+ Certification - the leading entry-level certification for IT technicians. With a little extra study and exam preparation, you should be able to take and pass the exams, and qualify yourself for a higher-level job as you enter the workforce or work your way through college. Find out more in this CompTIA Education to Careers video (high-speed broadband needed)..
CompTIA Strata Fundamentals Exams
While A+ certification is a great goal to prepare you for an IT Career, CompTIA's Strata Fundamentals Exams are a new way to enter the certification pathway and begin your journey. From this site, learn about the skills and knowledge you would need to earn this new industry certificate.
Occupational Outlook Handbook – Professional Careers
This handbook from the Bureau of Labor Statistics lists many types of IT careers.
Gizmag Emerging Technologies
All types of new technologies but you will have to look through them to pull out the computer technologies. This site has everything from new types of tires to VoIP innovations.
"Soft Skills"
A Wikipedia definition.
Soft Skills Quiz
Measure your workplace skills with this Monster.com quiz.
Nortel LearnIT
This site from the telecommunications company has a large selection of teacher materials including videos, lesson plans, and resources for IT careers, ethics, safety and more. The videos on 'soft skills' are very interesting.
Mind Tools
"Improve Your Communication Skills" page from the Mind Tools web site.
Consumer Privacy
A definition and discussion from Wikipedia.
Ethics in Computing
This North Carolina State University site directs you to areas such as privacy, computer abuse, and risks.
Wikipedia Guide to Customer Service
How to be great at customer service.
Wikipedia Guide to Professionalism
A Guide to Professionalism wherever you are.
