Learn how to optimize the performance of your Mac(r), troubleshoot, and make repairs when it acts up!
Troubleshooting and maintaining your Mac(r) doesn't have to be a time-consuming, "hit-or-miss" proposition or cost you or your company a fortune!
In this course you'll get a look at the Macintosh(r) operating system (including the System and Finder) as well as individual Macintosh(r) components and how they function. You'll learn how to identify the components most likely to fail and how to apply tested, step-by-step strategies for isolating tricky problems that can make troubleshooting and repair time-consuming and frustrating. Plus, you'll learn about the latest Macintosh(r) technology -including Mac OS 7.5, 8.5, and X - so you can make informed decisions about upgrading.
What you'll learn and how you'll benefit
Diagnosing and troubleshooting ... You'll learn what to try first when things go wrong. ... How to decipher error messages. ... How to tell what type of Mac(r) behavior is symptomatic of a larger problem. ... Where the most common types of malfunctions occur. ... Which hand tools, diagnostics, and software utilities you'll need for pinpointing and fixing problems.
Repairing ... Fix problems quickly and easily with these techniques: Disassemble and remove malfunctioning parts, and install new ones. ... Solve resource conflicts and incompatibilities. ... Steps you can take to recover "lost" data. ... Get tips and advice for deciding when it's best to repair a computer or replace it.
Upgrading ... Find out when you can save money by adding newer and faster cards and components to your existing system and when it's better to buy a new one. ... How to tweak your system to run faster. ... Get information on RAM, hard disks, and peripherals that can enhance your Mac's performance and extend its usefulness.
Maintenance ... You'll learn simple steps you can take today to keep performance problems to a minimum. ... Learn how to create an emergency startup disk, ... safeguard files from viruses, and ... avoid the environmental conditions that wreak havoc.
Networking ... Find out how to connect your Mac(r) to a LAN. ... How to use AppleTalk(r), Ethernet(r), and LocalTalk(r). ... Learn about common network security issues. ... How to protect your data. ... How to have a secure network.
Hands-on learning and instructor demonstrations
The best part of all is that you won't have to wait until you finish the course to roll up your sleeves and get to work. During the cource, you'll work with a Mac(r) to replace system components, practice diagnosing, troubleshooting, and repairing common problems firsthand. Plus, you'll benefit from numerous instructor-led demonstrations presented via computer screen projection that will serve as valuable blueprints for finding your way around Mac(r) systems and networks.
Who should participate?
1) Anyone that operates a computer lab.
2) Anyone who would make themselves available to help others .
3) Office support staff.
4) Anyone that uses a Macintosh(r) computer.
Prerequisites: Please keep in mind that this is going to focus on Macintosh(r), and that the individual must have a good working knowledge of computer basics. Participants should have experience setting-up a Macintosh(r) computer and installing system software.
Course Outline
Getting to know the Mac(r) Basic components and operating platforms
o An overview of the Macintosh(r) family of computers
o Getting inside the Mac(r) to understand its components and their
functions:
- CPU
- RAM and ROM
- Motherboard
- Power supply
- Co-processor
- CD-ROM
- Hard drive
- Floppy drive
- Keyboard
- Monitor
- Modem
- NIC
o Understanding how the Mac(r) operating system works.
Troubleshooting basics
o The safety precautions you should take when upgrading or troubleshooting
a Mac(r).
o The step-by-step procedures and techniques for disassembling
any Macintosh(r).
o Understanding the P.O.S.T. routine and other built-in system
tools to test for and diagnose problems.
o Diagnostic software packages available and how to use them to
locate, confirm, and repair various malfunctions.
o The first things to try when your Mac(r) acts up and what to
consider if the computer won't start at all.
o How to tell whether you're dealing with a software or hardware
problem and tips for isolating problems quickly.
o Common system error messages and what they mean.
Troubleshooting the Mac OS(r) and software components
o How to perform a "clean" system install.
o Understanding and troubleshooting the Macintosh(r) System Folder.
o How to quickly resolve extension conflicts and how to manage
your extensions more efficiently.
o The most common causes of performance decreases.
o Handling the most common causes of random crashes, freezes,
and errors.
Troubleshooting system board components
o Understanding the various types of memory, their functions,
and common problems.
o How to locate and replace bad memory chips.
o Symptoms that indicate a battery problem is interfering with
Parameter RAM (PRAM) and how to fix it.
Troubleshooting monitors, printers, keyboards, and other input/output
devices
o Tips for keeping your mouse or trackball in top working condition.
o Diagnosing and fixing common printer problems, including font
problems.
Troubleshooting the storage media
o Tips for troubleshooting, defragmenting, repairing, replacing,
and adding hard drives.
o How to recover lost data, reconstruct damaged files, and correct
disk errors.
o Understanding the various types of removable storage drives
available, including: Zip(r), Jaz(r), and Super Disk drives.
Troubleshooting communications hardware and networks
o Network cabling fundamentals and tips for keeping cable and
connector problems to a minimum.
o Setting up peripherals and other resources to be shared on a
network.
o What to do if the computer you want to connect to doesn't appear
in the Chooser.
Upgrades and improvements
o How to install additional RAM.
o How to install and set up internal and external hard drives.
o Upgrading your operating system and the fundamental differences
between system versions.
Preventive maintenance and techniques for maximizing the performance
o How to protect your Mac(r) against viruses.
o How to create an emergency startup disk.
o Routine maintenance steps you can take to keep trouble at bay.
Course Costs: $150 *
*Plus the cost of an old used Macintosh(r) computer, books, tools, software, and online Internet time all of which are NOT INCLUDED and must be supplied by you. The computer will be used for hands-on lab work. It must be in working condition and not be your primary Internet access computer.
Course Hours: 3 Hours/Week Hours are arranged through the
instructor.
Course Dates: Febuary 1, 2001 through June 8, 2001 (18 weeks)
You can get started by sending us a resume (detailed description) of your computer and repair/maintenance experience by eMail or by US mail to:
http://www.calweb.com/~macdoc
David Marson
Mac Doctor
1240 South Central Ave.
Lodi, California 95240
macdoc@calweb.com
eMail to: macdoc@calweb.com
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