Overview
This lecture covers the CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) exam, focusing on exam structure, types of questions, hardware identification, troubleshooting steps, and differences between exam versions, as well as study strategies and resources.
Exam Structure & Versions
- The A+ certification requires passing two exams (e.g., 1101 & 1102, or 1201 & 1202), both from the same series.
- The 1101/1102 exams retire on September 25, 2025; the new 1201/1202 series will be available until about September 2028.
- Both versions result in the same A+ certification regardless of exam series.
- Exam length is 90 minutes per test, with a scoring scale of 100-900. Passing scores are 675 (1101/1201) and 700 (1102/1202).
- Questions include multiple choice and performance-based (drag-and-drop, command prompt, matching, etc.).
Hardware & Interfaces Identification
- Be able to identify motherboard interfaces and what components connect to them:
- PCIe x1 slot: expansion card (e.g., network, USB, audio).
- CPU socket: processor/CPU.
- SATA ports: storage drives (SSD, HDD).
- Memory slots (DIMM): RAM modules.
- 24-pin connector: power from PSU.
- Know basic troubleshooting for common hardware issues (e.g., dead pixels, power or display failures).
Troubleshooting Scenarios
- For display issues (e.g., black dot on the monitor), a single black pixel indicates a dead pixel—replace the screen.
- Dimming screens on older laptops can be due to inverter failure (inverters power fluorescent backlights).
- Use a tone generator and probe to locate network cables during wired network troubleshooting.
Cloud Models & Acronyms
- Platform as a Service (PaaS): Cloud provider supplies tools for developers to build applications.
- Software as a Service (SaaS): Provider manages everything; users just access the software.
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): Provider supplies hardware & OS; user manages apps and data.
TPM & Security Features
- Trusted Platform Module (TPM): Hardware module for cryptographic processing, required for full disk encryption (e.g., BitLocker).
- Disabling TPM affects disk encryption but not network or personalization features.
Study Strategies & Resources
- Always use study materials matching your exam version to avoid missing or unneeded topics.
- Virtual machines (VMs) are useful for practicing OS-level troubleshooting without dedicated hardware.
- Official CompTIA objectives outline all topics expected on the exam—use these as your checklist.
- Practice exams and course notes can help consolidate learning.
Key Terms & Definitions
- UEFI BIOS — Modern firmware interface replacing traditional BIOS, supports advanced features.
- TPM (Trusted Platform Module) — Hardware module providing secure crypto functions.
- Performance-Based Questions — Non-multiple choice, require applying knowledge through simulations or matching.
- Tone Generator — Tool for tracing cables by sending a signal and locating its endpoint.
- PaaS (Platform as a Service) — Cloud model offering a platform for app development.
- SaaS (Software as a Service) — Cloud model delivering complete applications over the internet.
- IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) — Cloud model providing virtualized computing resources.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the CompTIA A+ exam objectives for your target version.
- Practice identifying hardware interfaces and their corresponding components.
- Use practice exams and official course notes to consolidate knowledge.
- Set a study schedule based on your background; typical duration is 2–3 months per exam.
- If using vouchers, ensure they match the planned exam version and are valid before expiration.