Assessment Guide

Ethiopian TVET System
Training, Teaching and Learning Materials Development
Ethiopian TVET-System
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
SUPPORT SERVICE
Level I
Assessment Guide
(Demonstration & Knowledge Test)
Unit of Competence: Connect Hardware Peripherals

Module Title:
Connecting Hardware Peripherals
TTLM Code:
ICT ITS1 TTLM1 0511
TTLM Development Manual
Date: 10-2011
Author: MoE Mr. Mark Julius Panganiban, IT Expert
Page 1 of 13

ASSESSMENT PACKET: DEMONSTRATION

1. Required peripherals for each port
Serial port
Serial ports can be used to connect a mouse, keyboard or external modem. They send
data one bit at a time and are good for sending information over long distances.
Parallel port
This port is used to send of lot of data over a short distance. Printers often use parallel
ports.
Universal serial bus (USB) port
USB Ports are now gradually replacing serial and parallel ports. These devices are hot
swappable meaning that devices can be plugged while the computer has been turned
on. USB ports can also be located on the front of a computers system unit. USB ports
are used for printers, scanners, joysticks and digital cameras.
Date: 10-2011
Page 2 of 13

Firewire port
This is a more recent port, 33 times faster than a USB port. It is typically used for video
cameras and often need the installation of an internal adapter card.
The keyboard, mouse and monitor can also have their own designated ports
2. Installing a printer
1 Obtain the correct printer cable
In many cases a printer wont automatically have a cable included with the original
purchase. Check the printer specifications you will probably need to buy either a
parallel or USB cable.
2 Plug in the cable
1
Turn off the power to both the printer and the computer.
Plug the printer cable into the correct port of the PC depending on the type of
printer the port will most likely to be either a USB or a parallel port located on the
back of the computer. If you are plugging the cable into a parallel port connection
you will need to secure the cable by either tightening small screws or snapping in
wire connectors.
3 Install ink
Depending on the printer you have you may need to install an ink cartridge (for inkjet
printers) or toner cartridge (for laser printers). Turn the computers power on and follow
the manufacturers guidelines to install a new cartridge.
4 Install the printer driver
At some point the computer will either recognise that new hardware has been installed
(for example if the operating system is plug and play compatible) or you will need to tell
Date: 10-2011
Page 3 of 13

the computer that a new device has been added. In either case, you will at some stage
be asked for the printer model and a printer driver. Make sure you install the printer
driver at this stage. Sometimes the installation CD will automatically run, installing the
printer driver at the same time.
5 Print a test page
Often at the end of the driver installation you will be asked if you would like to print a
test page. This is a good idea because you can quickly determine if the printer is
working correctly. If not you can troubleshoot the installation.
6 Troubleshoot printer installation (when necessary)
If a page is not able to print it is necessary to go back and determine why the printer is
not working. There are a number of factors that can contribute to printer problems
including:
cables between printer and computer are not properly connected
printer driver is not suitable for the current operating system
paper is loaded incorrectly
ink cartridge or toner is not correctly installed
printer power switch is off.
3. Installing a scanner
1 Turn off the computer and position the scanner
Before commencing installation, turn of power to the computer and place the scanner
on a level surface, close enough to the computer so that the cable will be able to attach
to both devices.
2 Unlock the scanner
Many scanners have a lock on the bottom to make sure that components are not
dislodged when transporting. Make sure that you unlock the scanner before
commencing installation.
3 Plug in the cable
Plug the cable into either the USB or parallel port connection, depending on the type of
scanner.
Date: 10-2011
Page 4 of 13

4 Turn on the scanner
Some scanners will have a power cord that will need to be plugged into a power outlet.
Other scanners are dependent on power from the computer. Some scanners will also
have an on/off switch, which will also need to be turned on.
5 Turn on the PC
When you turn on your computer, most operating systems will recognise that new
hardware has been added (eg it is plug and play compatible). If it hasnt recognised the
new scanner you may need to tell your computer that a new device has been added.
6 Insert the scanner driver
At some point you will be asked if you have a disk for your scanner. This generally
means the computer is requesting you provide it with the disk containing the driver
software.
7 Scan a test image
Ensure that the scanner is working by performing a scan of a book or magazine page.
8 Troubleshoot scanner installation (if necessary)
4. Install a digital camera
1 Check the camera equipment
Before connecting a digital camera to a computer you firstly need to check that it is
capable of working on its own. Measures that need to be taken include:
Inserting a memory card The majority of digital cameras need you to

install a memory card to store the images that are captured.
Installing batteries Make sure to install batteries into the battery

component of the camera.
2 Turn on the cameras power

Make sure that you have switched on the camera before trying to connect the device to
the computer.
3 Connect the camera
Date: 10-2011
Page 5 of 13

The majority of digital cameras will connect to the computer with a USB cable.
4 Install the camera software
In most cases your computer will recognise that you have added new hardware. At this
stage you may be prompted to install software (including software drivers) on your
computer.
5 Test the connection between camera and computer
Using the software installed on the computer, try to transfer some photos from the
camera to the computer.
6 Troubleshoot camera installation (if necessary)
5. Using a Web Index
To access and use a Web index, perform the following steps:
1. While logged on to the Web, type http://www.yahoo.com/ in your browser's URL entry
field.
2. Press ENTER or RETURN on your keyboard.
This will take you to Yahoo!, one of the most popular Web indexes. Underneath the Yahoo!
logo, you will see a blank search entry form, as well as hotlinks of site categories.
3. Click on one of the category topics and follow the categories until you reach a site that
matches your interests.
...OR...
4. Click your mouse in the entry form. This will place a blinking cursor in the form.
5. Type one or more words pertaining to information you'd like to locate on the Web.
6. Click on the SEARCH button to the right of the entry form, or press RETURN or ENTER
on your keypad.
After a few seconds, Yahoo! will return with a list of hotlinks that match your search
criteria. The more specific your criteria, the fewer and more specific hotlinks you will
see.
7. Scroll down the page and select the hotlink to a page that you'd like to explore
[NOTE: Extensive search results will take up multiple pages
Date: 10-2011
Page 6 of 13

6. Problem: Can't Connect to the Internet Service Provider

Solutions:
Make sure your modem is switched on and connected to a live phone line. If necessary,
refer to your modem's user manual.
Make sure your connection software is configured properly. If necessary, refer to the
original setup instructions, or call your provider's customer service number.
You might be having trouble with your phone line. Before attempting a connection, make
sure that all phones on the line are hung up, and check for a dial tone. You may
experience problems if your modem is "connected" to your phone line by way of a radiobased phone extension. While adequate for voice communications, these extenders
usually do not provide a connection that is clean enough (noise-free) for digital
transmissions.
The problem might not be on your end, but might lie with the service provider. Often, if
too many users are logged on to a provider's system, the provider will not permit
additional connections. Also, the provider might be performing system maintenance
(though most providers try to do such work during "off" hours to minimize disruption). If
you believe this to be the case, try connecting again until you establish a connection, or
try another "point of presence" phone number for your provider.
ASSESSMENT PACKET: ORAL QUESTIONING

1. USB compatible devices:
scanner
printer
mouse
digital camera.
2. What to Look for in an Access Provider
Fee planProviders may offer a flat monthly fee for unlimited access, a metered
hourly fee, or both. The fee that will be most reasonable for you depends on how
much time you plan to spend online. If you are online for more than five hours per
Date: 10-2011
Page 7 of 13

month, a flat monthly fee will be the most economical choice. Otherwise, you'll be
paying for service you don't need.
Start-up feesProviders may also charge "hidden" fees and premium rates for
access at certain times. Ask for a breakdown of all fees charged before you sign
on.
Local access numbersUnless you can dial in from your local area, you'll be
paying long distance charges for each Internet session. Make sure a provider
offers access numbers for your area, as well as for any area to which you
routinely travel.
ContractsYou may be offered a yearly or multi-year contract for service in
exchange for a discount rate. However, if you cancel your account before the
contract is up, the provider might charge you a penalty. Also, make sure that your
service provider is stable and reliable before committing to a long-term
agreement, particularly if you are required to pay up front.
Dependable accessThe ability to establish a connection during peak hours has
become an important issue as more people go online. A good service provider,
obviously, should have few busy signals and minimal downtime.
Good customer supportIf you call with a question concerning your account at
an odd hour, will your call be taken? Will your E-mail queries be answered? The
major providers usually have excellent customer support, but smaller outfits may
offer little or no support services. Also be alert to premiums charged for support
calls.
Proprietary servicesAmerica Online, Prodigy and CompuServe all have their
own databases, conference centers and chat rooms not available on the Internet
or any other service. Other service providers offer nothing more than a straight
connection to the Internet.
Restricted accessProviders can often determine what Internet services they
will provide. For example, some will carry only selected newsgroups. Providers
that lack such restrictions often advertise their "uncensored" and "unrestricted"
access.
3. Internet connection option
Cable InternetThese systems allow your computer to connect to the Internet

through the same cable that carries your TV signal. Monthly service charges are
usually not much more than standard modem connection costs, but you have to
rent or purchase a "cable modem." Additionally, your computer will need an
Ethernet card (a special circuit board that allows for network connections). Not all
cable service operators offer this service; call your local operator for more
information.
Satellite connectionsDirecPC (http://www.direcpc.com/) allows you to
download Internet files via a satellite connection. This is an efficient method for
receiving large Web graphics and other items, but you still need a modem
connection for other features. You must purchase the connection hardware as
well as subscribe to the service.
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)An ISDN line is a type of digital
phone line that can transmit data many times faster than a conventional modem
Date: 10-2011
Page 8 of 13

and
phone
line.
To
learn
more
about
ISDN,
go
tohttp://www.isdn.ocn.com/index.shtml
Wireless connectionsPagers, cellular phones and personal digital assistants
(PDAs) now allow varying levels of Internet access, from notification of E-mail to
limited Web connections. Many of these services remain in the experimental
stage.
WebTVIntroduced in late 1996, WebTV (http://www.webtv.net/) provides Web
and E-mail access through ordinary television sets. The connection is made
through a custom high-speed modem. You must purchase a special set-top unit
for your TV, plus subscribe to the connection service. Recently, similar systems
by other manufacturers have appeared on the market to compete with WebTV.
4. Minimal disruption to the client
Schedule sufficient time to completely install and test

peripheral.
Try and organise a time outside regular organisational
tasks.
Try to ensure that client will not be at the computer (for
example holiday periods, while out of office, before or after
office hours).
5. What are drivers?

Whenever you install a hardware peripheral device, you will also have to install a
driver. A driver is a software program that allows the hardware device to talk to
the operating system. Generally, driver software will be included within the
packaging of a new device. Sometimes operating systems, such as Windows XP,
automatically provide their own drivers if you dont provide one. At times it may
be necessary to find a newer version of a driver than the one that has been
provided by the manufacturer. It is a good idea to regularly check the
manufacturers website to see if any new drivers have been developed.
6. Choosing a supplier
With so many choices of suppliers available, how do you find the right one?
There are a few factors to consider:
How long has the supplier been operating? It is a good idea to find a
supplier who will still be around for the lifetime of the hardware.
Does the supplier offer suitable support and training? If the client will be
requiring a lot of additional assistance, training could be a major contributing
factor for choosing a particular supplier.
Date: 10-2011
Page 9 of 13

Does the supplier offer competitive pricing? Considering the support and
stability, it is also important to weigh up these factors in relation to price. For a
client with a strict budget, price may be a big issue when determining where to
purchase hardware.
Is the supplier a preferred supplier for your organisation? Some

organisations have arrangements that equipment must be purchased from
suppliers who are considered to be the preferred provider for the organisation.
Organisations create these agreements because customer loyalty offers
substantial discounts, extended warranties and additional support.
7. Some general guidelines to follow when storing a peripheral device

include:
Make sure equipment is located in a way recommended for

ideal working conditions.
Adhere to current Occupational Health and Safety guidelines.
Ensure the electrical safety of the device.
Consider security of the device.
ASSESSMENT PACKET: KNOWLEDGE TEST

I.
IDENTIFICATION
1. USB flash drive
2. Inkjet printer
3. Keyboard
4. Monitor
5. Web cam
6. Planning
7. System Development life cycle
8. Feasibility study
9. Serial ports
10. Firewire Port
II.
ENUMERATION
1. Typical information requested on a project request form includes:
Date: 10-2011
Page 10 of 13

project title
date received
completion date
project number
description of problem
objectives
anticipated benefits
person requesting
constraints.
2. Common problems that you might encounter when using the Internet:
Cant connect to the Internet Service Provider

Accessing the web and other resources takes long time
Cannot Access a particular web site.
Site Loads, but features dont function properly.
3. Procedures which are generally followed when installing any new peripheral device
include:
1
plugging in the cables between the device and the computer
installing any drivers
troubleshooting installation when necessary
customising the device
testing the device for satisfying required conditions.
4. Customizing the printer

Depending on your clients needs, there may be a need to alter the default printer
settings. Some settings that may be customised include:
1. Changing the Page Layout a page may need to be printed in either landscape or
portrait orientation.
Date: 10-2011
Page 11 of 13

2. Changing the Paper Source depending on the complexity of the printer there
may be a variety of trays the printer has available to use.
3. Changing the Print Quality depending on the printer use, a client may require
best, normal or draft quality of print.
4. Setting the Default Printer if there is more than one printer attached to a
computer, you may need to change the settings so that the newer model is
considered the default model.
5. Scanner functions that may be tested are:
Is the resolution of a scanned image an acceptable quality?
Does the scanner work correctly with different software packages (eg a word
processor or desktop publishing package)?
Can the scanner handle items of unusual size and thickness (eg a large book or
cardboard poster)?
Does the OCR software scan a document successfully?
Will the scanner work successfully on other computers?
III.
DEFINE THE FOLLOWING AND EXPLAIN
1. Hardware inventories
The purpose of a hardware inventory (or registry) is to keep detailed information about all the
hardware equipment within an organisation. Every piece of hardware, including each computer
and peripheral device, should be recorded on the inventory. As well as providing an excellent
quick reference guide to the organisations hardware, an inventory can be very useful for
insurance, warranty and service purposes.
In order for an inventory to be a valuable source of information, it is vital that the information be
maintained regularly. New devices need to be entered into the inventory as soon as they have
been obtained. You must also adjust the inventory frequently, to delete hardware that is no
longer functional or has been removed. Some organisations do random checks or yearly audits
of their hardware inventories to ensure that all information is current.
There are a number of tools available to create hardware inventories. Databases and
spreadsheets are often used to store the information. There are also software programs that
you can purchase, designed specifically for recording hardware and software details. Although
these programs are good for keeping a soft copy of the information, it is also essential that
you keep a current hard copy (printed version) of the inventory. In this way, if the computer
system ever fails you will still have the information.
Date: 10-2011
Page 12 of 13

2. Storing peripherals
Peripheral devices need to be located in a suitable environment otherwise there may be
potential problems. It is a good idea to refer to the manufacturers manual to determine what
guidelines should be followed. When storing peripherals it is important to:
make sure equipment is kept in ideal working conditions
adhere to current Occupational Health and Safety guidelines
ensure the electrical safety of the device

consider security of the device
3. System specifications
It is important to find out the specifications of the computer system you are planning to
connect the peripheral device to. Many newer types of peripheral devices require a specific
amount of memory, CPU speed, hard disk space, and may only be compatible with certain
operating systems. You also need to be aware of the peripherals system requirements. The
manual for the peripheral device as well as the manufacturers website will help you
determine the minimum system specifications.
Prepared by:
Mr. Mark Julius Panganiban, IT Expert
Checked by:
Date:
Date:
Date: 10-2011
Page 13 of 13

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Ethiopian TVET System

Training, Teaching and Learning Materials Development

Unit of Competence: Connect Hardware Peripherals

TTLM Development Manual

Ethiopian TVET System

ASSESSMENT PACKET: DEMONSTRATION

Ethiopian TVET System

Ethiopian TVET System

cables between printer and computer are not properly connected

printer driver is not suitable for the current operating system

paper is loaded incorrectly

ink cartridge or toner is not correctly installed

printer power switch is off.

TTLM Development Manual

Ethiopian TVET System

Inserting a memory card The majority of digital cameras need you to

Installing batteries Make sure to install batteries into the battery

2 Turn on the cameras power

Ethiopian TVET System

TTLM Development Manual

Ethiopian TVET System

6. Problem: Can't Connect to the Internet Service Provider

ASSESSMENT PACKET: ORAL QUESTIONING

2. What to Look for in an Access Provider

TTLM Development Manual

Ethiopian TVET System

Cable InternetThese systems allow your computer to connect to the Internet

TTLM Development Manual

Ethiopian TVET System

Schedule sufficient time to completely install and test

5. What are drivers?

TTLM Development Manual

Ethiopian TVET System

Is the supplier a preferred supplier for your organisation? Some

7. Some general guidelines to follow when storing a peripheral device

Make sure equipment is located in a way recommended for

Adhere to current Occupational Health and Safety guidelines.

Ensure the electrical safety of the device.

Consider security of the device.

ASSESSMENT PACKET: KNOWLEDGE TEST

TTLM Development Manual

Ethiopian TVET System

Cant connect to the Internet Service Provider

plugging in the cables between the device and the computer

installing any drivers

troubleshooting installation when necessary

customising the device

testing the device for satisfying required conditions.

4. Customizing the printer

Ethiopian TVET System

DEFINE THE FOLLOWING AND EXPLAIN

Ethiopian TVET System

make sure equipment is kept in ideal working conditions

adhere to current Occupational Health and Safety guidelines

ensure the electrical safety of the device

Mr. Mark Julius Panganiban, IT Expert

TTLM Development Manual

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