3) IT A+ Intro - Chapter 3

What is the MCC (RAM)

The Memory Controller Chip is the chip that acts as the go between for the CPU and RAM. The CPU tells the MCC what it needs with the Address Bus and the MCC sends it to the CPU via the EDB

What are some Features of Windows 7 OS

1) Aero or Aero Glass: The transparent edges of a Windows Program. 2) Start Button: Main access button on the taskbar. 3) Pinned Programs: Programs, next to the start button, that open with a single left click. 4) Taskbar: Section of the taskbar at bottom of windows desktop that show all active running programs. 5) Notification/System Tray: Section to the far right of the taskbar that show background programs and some settings.

What are the 2 option for taskbars on multiple screens and how to access

1) Mirror: where all active/running programs are on each taskbar. 2) Respective: where only the active/running programs of each respective screen appear on the bar. Right click the desktop>properties to access

What are the names of the 4 base registers of a 32 bit and 64 bit CPU

32 bit: "EAX", EBX", "ECX", "EDX" (E for extended) 64 bit: "RAX", RBX", "RCX", "RDX" (R unknown reason)

What is Multicore Processing

A CPU chip with multiple Cores. Each core comes with an additional Execution Unit, additional Pipeline, and additional Cache; as well as an additional cache (usually L3) for all to share and intercommunicate.

What is LaunchPad, what OS

A Mac OS specific version of Windows Taskview. Organize and Group apps.

What is the tell tale sign of RFI, is it damaging to computers?

A buzzing static like noise coming from certain electronics. Its harmless to computers.

Machine Language

A chain of data bytes ("10011001") that instruct a CPU on what to do.

What is C:\program files (x86)

A folder on a 64 bit structured OS that contains all of the programs in a 32 bit structured version.

How do CPUs report their information and speed requirements to the Motherboard?

A function called CPUID

What is a Drive Letter

A letter, eg "C:\" that designates the name of the disc or disk.

What is a Program

A program is a set of instructions called threads and data.

What is a thread (programs)

A series of instructions for a program to know what to do with the data therein.

What is a register (CPU), what is the minimum in any CPU and what are their names

A single "work table" of 16 lights (CPU metaphor). A CPU has at least 4 work tables. These base worktables are called "AX", "BX", "CX", and "DX". Today's CPUs have MANY more.

What is CPU Throttling

A technique used when the CPU runs slower to conserve power and produce less heat.

What type of CPU do mobile devices use

ARM CPU

Avoid what when working with a customer?

AVOID LEARNING PERSONAL PASSWORDS OF OTHER PEOPLE AT ALL COSTS! I might be blamed if something happens and I knew the password. If I need password access then just then have the user enter his or have them temporarily change the password.

ESD Etiquette

Always be aware of ESD. Never touch the internals of any computer without a ESD Wrist Strap or the metal of the computer case. Always place internal parts on an antistatic mat or in antistatic bags (for transport). Make sure any ESD Wrist Strap's metal is touching your skin, not a sleeve. Also, internal computer components come in antistatic bags; never throw these away.

What to remember if the client is angry

Always remember that the client's anger is, most usually, not because of you. They are just really frustrated with their equipment. Remain positive and confident even when you don't know the answer. Remind the customer that sometimes IT takes a while. Make sure to not distract yourself, text, or call while on the job.

ESD Mat/ESD Bag

An Electrostatic Mat or Bad used to place/hold the internal components of a computer to prevent electrical damage.

What is the Kernel

An OS kernel is a software component that's responsible for managing the computer, including interfacing with hardware devices, allocating memory to individual programs, allocating CPU time to individual programs, and enabling programs to interact with each other.

What is an example of virtual technology as a CPU feature

An example is virtualization where the CPU virtually hosts has a "Guest OS".

What is an Applet and where can they be found

Applets are small, single purpose, apps that usually are found in other apps as plug-in and/or setting controls

What is the ALU

Arithmetic Logic Unit, it is the component of the CPU that does all of the Arithmetic (+ - x /) of integers (whole numbers) only.

What is the most important thing to do before you help the customer

My job is to serve the customer when something happens. Don't assume that the world stops when I walk in the door. Always ask "May I start working on the problem now?" and give the customer a chance to get their affairs in order for you to do your work. If they never had problems then I would never get to have this job.

What is the Taskbar of Linux, where is it

GNOME, and it's on the left hand side of the screen.

What is "Escalating The Problem"

Going to a supervisor or other tech to deal with a problem that I cant fix.

What should you keep documentation on (3)

Authorization to work: Company Name, Billing information, Date, Scope of Work. Work Details: Day and Time that you started, the Problem/s, the Attempted Solution/s and Successful Solution/s, Day and Time work ended, Number of Hours Worked, a List of all Replaced Parts/Apps/Data (and offer to return the parts, if client property), and, possibly, the charge for your work. Incident Report: What Happened and Type (electrical, chemical, physical, etc), to Who/m, Other Damages and Types, Where, Day and Time.

What is the difference between the B and b. For example MB vs Mb

B, uppercase, is a byte (8 bits) b, lowercase, is a bit (the binary 1/0)

Before you start any work on a user's computer what's the third most important thing you should do?

Before I work on any computer always ask if there are up-to-date backup stored on the computer. If not, offer to make them, even if that costs extra; and if they refuse to allow it then make sure they understand the dangers of that decision.

Before you start any work on a user's computer what's the second most important thing you should do?

Before I work on any computer always get a signed Work Authorization Form documenting the Company Name, Billing information, Date, Scope of Work, etc to avoid litigation and other hassles.

Always remember what when disposing of parts?

Check for government regulations and other disposal specific conditions.

What is the name of the case of a typical laptop

Clamshell Case

What is the Mac symbol for Command

Click for full view

What is the Mac symbol for Control

Click for full view

What is the Mac symbol for Options/Alt

Click for full view

What are the important features of a CPU (8)

Clock Multipliers 64-bit Processing Virtualization Support Parallel Execution Multicore Processing Integrated Memory Controller (IMC) Integrated Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

Can a system run at a slower/faster speed than the Clock Speed?

Clock speed: Yes, but this is called overclocking can is normally harmful to the computer. Always make sure the system crystal is not faster than the clock speed.

What is the shortcut for Mac's Spotlight Search

Command + Space

What is the menu called when you right click a windows desktop

Context Menu

What are the Techie Launch Points of Windows (3)

Control Panel and CLI on all Windows But its System Tool (Windows 7), Admin Tools (Windows 8), and Settings (Windows 10)

What is Windows' Control Panel and how to access it by version (1) (3) (1)

Control Panel is the menu with all the basic settings of the Computer from device manager to devices and program management. Windows 7- Start>Control Panel Windows 8- In start menu click lower right arrow and scroll to find it in Windows Systems category. Or, at start menu click search and type control panel. Or, right click the start button to find the option there. Window 10- At start menu click search and type control panel.

What is a Specific Computing device

Devices that only do one job like Calculators, Digital Watch, Wi-Fi pic frame.

What is the "taskbar" of Mac OS called

Dock

EMI

Electromagnetic Interference, caused by magnets, and it very damaging to computers; especially hard drives.

What is FPU (CPU components)

Floating Points Unit; it is the component of the CPU that does all of the Arithmetic (+ - x /) of decimals only.

What is the Troubleshooting Methodology (6)

ID the Problem: Ask the user about any changes and perform any backups. Ask about any environmental or infrastructure changes. Review system and application logs. Establish a Theory of Probable Cause: Question the obvious. Conduct Internal Research (Eg: Look at Computer components, system review, company logs, and application logs), With permission, and/or ask other techs; and do external research (online) based on symptoms. Test the Theory to Determine the Cause: Test the theory to see if it holds up. If theory is "confirmed" then move on to next step. If theory is "not confirmed" then repeat past steps to "re-establish" a theory. Establish a Plan of Action to Resolve the Problem: Establish a plan and timeline and give timeline to client/s. Always check with the client/s (company, user, etc) for proper procedures and permissions before starting. Repeat all previous steps until problem/s is/are solved. Document everything. Verify Full System Functionality: Verify functionality individually, and via the client (cant print? Let them print something), and implement any possible actions to avoid further problems (includes educating the user about prevention). Assure that everything is documented for both self (ordered by device by client) and client; AND that all temp passwords are reverted. Review: Call or revisit client later to ensure full functionality.

What to do with a client's questions

If there is a client asking what you are doing, then explain it in to them simple ways. If the client is preventing you from doing your job with too many questions then direct them to some adequate learning materials. Also, never do work outside of your purview or Work Authorization Form without approval from a supervisor. Never agree to watch children; especially if the parent is going to leave the site.

How to access Windows 7's System Tools and what is it

In Windows 7 go to Start>All Programs>Accessories>System Tools. It is a menu, within the start menu, that offers many techie apps like defragger, system restore, and system information.

How to access Windows' 8 Admin Tools (3) and what is it

In Windows 8 the Admin Tools are Start>bottom right arrow>scroll for the catergory Admin Tools. Or, Start>Search Bar>Admin Tools. Or, right click Start>Control Panel>Admin Tools. It is a menu that offers many techie apps like defragger, system restore, and system information.

Name the 3 types of CPUs (2 computers and 1 mobiles)

Intel, AMD, and ARM

What is File Association

It is the ".xxx" suffix attached to all files that tells the OS which program the file is associated with like ".doc" for Microsoft Documents.

What is Parallel Execution

It is the execution of multiple lines of code, commands, at the same time.

What is the name of Linux's CLI and how to get to it in all distros

Its called Terminal and is found at Desktop>CTRL+Alt+t

What is the EDB (CPU traces) and what does it do.

Its the External Data Bus that carries info outside of the System Unit to the peripherals. The connection between the "communication lights" of the "man in the box" and the outside.

What is KDE

K Desktop Enviroment is a Linux based utility for designing similar distros for Linux.

What is the "Start" button of Linux and where is it found

Kickoff and is found to the left of the screen for GNOME 3 Distro

Whats the difference between Linux and Windows file structure.

Linus is exactly the same it just switches Window'8s C:\User\Kyle to Linux'sC:\Home\Kyle

Mac's Utilities Folder is located where (3) and is akin to

Mac Desktop>Go>Utilities. Or, Finder>Apps>Utilities. Or, Desktop>Command+Shift+U. It is akin to System Tools or Admin Tools.

Where is Linux's System Utilities on GNOME 3

Menu Bar (top), click Activities button (far left), search for utilities from box at top for GNOME 3 Distro

How to get to Settings in Linux's GNOME 3 Distro

Menu Bar (top), click far right arrow, click wrench and screwdriver icon for GNOME 3 Distro

What is Mission Control, what's extra feature does it give access to, and whats the OS

Mission Control, on Mac, allows the user to quickly switch between apps. It also gives access to Spaces where you can create multiple desktops, with different programs, but the same dock.

What made initial release Windows 8 Desktop different from Windows 7

No Start Button. Start Button was only found in Charms Menu.

If two CPU chips have the same brand name, eg Intel Core i7, does that mean that they are the same chips; with the same stats

No, chips can share brandnames. They must have different codenames or "-####" end numbers. For example: Intel Core i7-2600K Sandy Bridge vs Intel Core i7-8700K Coffee Lake

What is Pipeline Stall and other name

Other name is Wait States; and its the stopping of the i/o process of a CPU due to a difficult command. Usually do to a complex command in the decode stage.

What is Powershell and for what OS is it

Powershell is Windows' 10 version of CLI

What is RFI and what are some sources (5)

Radio Frequency Interference, common sources include cell phones, wireless network cards, cordless phones, baby monitors, and microwave ovens.

What is the Procession of Files in a drive

Root file is the drive going to folder>sub-folder>sub sub-folder>etc

What does "SD" in SD card stand for

Secure Digital

How to access Windows' 10 Settings (1) and what is it

Start>Settings. It is a menu that offers many techie apps like defragger, system restore, and system information.

What is especially vulnerable to magnets, and what common items have magnets

Storage drives like hard drives. Common items include speakers, power bricks, telephones, and anything else with an electric motor.

What are the admin and system tools for Mac

System Preferences and Utility Folder

The various names of the case of the a desktop computer (5)

System Unit, Base Unit, Computer Case, Computer Chassis, or Tower (Tower refers specifically to extra large cases).

Further recommendations for working with clients (4)

TImeline: When doing the work always give a timeline for when the work should be done, or state what you need to see before a timeline can be given. If there is a delay then tell the client and update the timeline. Options: Always give the client all of the options available to them be it a swap, upgrade, upgrade and backup, etc. Documentation: Document everything for yourself and for the client; document the day and time that you started to work, the solution, day and time work ended, number of hours worked, a list of all replaced parts (and offer to return the parts, if client property), and, possibly, the charge for your work. Always keep all documentation organized by device by client for future review. Follow Up: Then, finally, after a few days have past make sure to follow up with the client to assure satisfaction and/or deal with any further issues.

What is Task View and on what OS

Task view, on Windows 10, is for creating/managing multiple desktops so as to group various running apps

What is CLK, CLK Cycle, CLK Speed (CPU) and what is it used for

The CPU clock is a wire that controls when the CPU does its work. Every click of the clock is the time in which the CPU does an action; be that read the instructions, do the instructions, or send the results. These single clicks are called clock cycles ("nothing, click, nothing"). Clock Speed is the Max number of cycles that can be handled within a given period of time. For example, a CPU that says 4.7MHz means that the clock speed is 4.7 million cycles per second.

Describe the basic idea of a CPU with a metaphor to show understanding; then explain the reality of what the switches are

The CPU is like a man in a box who can only communicate, and work, via "light switches". For the communication switches each switch corresponds to a switch outside of the box (EDB). If either is turned on so is the other. One switch is a the binary "bit" of data; whereas 8 switches are a byte of data. For his work the man has at least 4 worktables (register) with 16 switches each. These are used to follow the instructions given be that calculate, store, move, etc the data. The Man uses a codebook agreed upon by the Man and User called an Instruction Set. So, the man has his EDB, his registers, his instruction set but he also has a CLK. The clock (CLK) that gives him the tempo for his work. He works only during the click of the clock. The CPU is a calculator who's "light switches" are merely semiconductor circuits that have, or dont have, an electrical current running in them. (This is merely an example. CPUs do not have only 4 work tables etc.)

What is in the Charm Menu (5) and how to access it

The Charm Menu is accessed by putting the mouse to the top/bottom right of the screen; and has Search, Share, Start, Devices, Settings tools.

What is Microarchitecture (CPU)

The Physical blueprint layout of a generational set (eg i3, i7, i9) of CPU chips (eg the layout of cores, cache, ALU, etc). Each codenamed CPU chip, eg coffee lake, has its own physical layout therein. Then, based on that build, that architecture the individual versions of the chips are made; eg i3, i7, i9.

Clock Multipliers (PC buses)

The System bus and Motherboard runs at x speed, according to the system crystal; but then that is multiplied to some x## (eg x32) within the CPU. For example a 100MHz bus x32 to give 3.2 GHz speed.

What are the Frontside and Backside Buses; and are they always applicable

The bus going from the MCC to the RAM The bus going from the CPU to the Cache Not always applicable

64-bit Processing main benefit is, and how high does it go up to

The main benefit is that it allows for more than just 4GB of memory and can go up to a EB; exabyte (10^60)

What is Multithreading and whats another name for it

The other name is Hyper-threading, and the ability to run 2+ threads at the same time within a single core. OS and the Apps must be compatible to use this.

Metro UI, what is it, other name, and operating system

The other name is Modern UI and it is the style of having the Windows 8 start menu look like a windows phone with pinned programs called tiles.

What is the Linux version of an Admin user

They are called Super Users

What are running programs called

They are called processes

What are the basic Processing Stages (Explain what it is + the 4 stages)

They are the base actions taken by a CPU to process a command. The stages are: Fetch (data from EDB) Decode (what the command is) Execute (the commanded calculation with ALU or FPU) Write (resulting data back onto EDB) 1 stage is completed per clock cycle.

When a 2 CPU chips have the same name, eg Intel Core i7, how can you tell them apart

They can be told apart by their codenames, eg sandy bridge vs coffee lake and by the ending numbers (eg "-####") of their full name. For example: Intel Core i7-2600K Sandy Bridge vs Intel Core i7-8700K Coffee Lake

What is thermal Throttling (CPU)

Throttling of the speed of a CPU due to overheating. It's done to help cool the CPU and avoid damage.

What are the purposes of a computer's OS (4)

To communicate with the hardware or allow programs to communicate with the hardware. To create the UI (User Interface). To allow users to see see, operate, control and stop/delete programs and data. To allow the prevention of data access and/or loss.

Mac's System Preferences are found where and what is it akin to

Upper Left of any Mac click the apple icon>System Preferences. It is akin to Control Panel

What kind of language should be used with the customer?

Use Assertive Language when dealing with a customer. First acknowledge their problem and pain; for example "I know how frustrating it feels to lose data". Avoid the word "you" as it can sound accusatory. Always state the problem clearly, but without accusation, for example: "Please, help me understand how the network cable keeps getting unplugged during your lunch hour?" Again, don't use the word "you", only use "I" and "me". Always actively listen and take notes of everything, and then rephrase to assure comprehension. Ask things like "when did it last work?", "Has it ever worked in this way?", "Has any software changed recently?", "Has any new hardware been added?", "Which applications were running when it locked up?".

What is necessary before working on the internals of any computing device?

When working with the internals of any computer always remove the power cable from the wall and/or the battery; unless it's absolutely necessary to not do so (eg live server rooms). But, then, always keep a Class C fire extinguisher on hand.

What is the System Crystal. What is the Clock Chip

Whereas the Clock speed is the MAX cycles for second; the System Crystal is regulates at what speed the CPU, and all other peripherals, are running. It is made of a quartz oscillator. The Quartz Oscillator is merely a piece of quartz that discharges at a precise frequency to act as the whole System's metronome. Every cycle discharge is sent to the clock chip which multiplies the pulse so that it can go to all other system components and maintain the tempo.

What is the Address Bus

Whereas the EDB goes from MCC to CPU, this bus goes from the CPU to the MCC. The Address Bus is how the CPU tells the MCC what line of code it needs from the RAM.

Layout of Windows 7-10 taskbars (4/4/6)

Windows 7-8: start button*, pinned, taskbar, notification/system tray Windows 10: start, search, task view, pinned, taskbar, notification/system tray *Windows 8 got start button after a patch

Where is CLI found by version

Windows' 7 CLI is found at Start>"cmd" search Windows 8 CLI is found at Start>bottom right arrow> scroll. Or Start>search bar>"cmd/command prompt". Or, right click Start, choose option Windows 10 PowerShell is at Search bar>powershell

What is Windows' Character Map and where is it accessed

Windows' Character Map gives copiable Unicodes for all special symbols, like ∆∂ƒ˚ßø∑, and is found in the System Tools Folder

Are all Window's Control Panels the same

Yes, though they dont have all the same applets.

Whats the difference between a x86-bit processor and a x86-64 processor

x86 is for the older x32-bit processors and x86-64 processors are for the new x64-bit processors.