Difference between revisions 2841146 and 2841148 on enwikibooks

< previous diff
next diff >
A+ Certification
{{Subpages}}
The '''A+ certification''' demonstrates competency as a computer technician. CompTIA A+ certification is a vendor neutral certification.
It requires two tests to be passed: the 220-801 exam and the 220-802 exam. CompTIA is vendor neutral but leans towards Microsoft operating systems, although some Apple and Android questions do appear on newer exams. 

== Knowledge and supplies needed to prepare for the A+ Certification test ==
A+ Certification is created by a non-profit organization called CompTIA. Visit [http://www.comptia.org comptia.org] to determine CompTIA specific information. CompTIA's certifications are vendor neutral and are used in the computing industry. Though not a prerequisite, A+ Certification is a natural lead-in to other CompTIA certifications, such as Network+, Server+, Linux+, Security+, i Net+ and others.  It is the only industry certification based on  PC Maintenance.

To obtain A+ Certification, one must have knowledge in many areas of Microsoft Windows, and the IBM style of personal computer. In this course the student will take apart a computer, identify parts, be able to assemble a computer, and practice using different operating systems.

A student attempting the A+ Certification should have approximately 500 hours of work experience with operating systems, computer hardware, system files, maintenance, networking, configuration of hardware and software, and troubleshooting computer problems. 

Courses and other study materials can be found on the Internet.

To study for the exam, the following materials are needed: 
* A PC with Microsoft Windows XP, Vista, 7, or 8
* Grounding pad
* Anti Static Wrist Strap (ESD Bracelet or Ground Bracelet)
* Phillips head screwdriver
* Flat head screwdriver
* Calculator

== Exam details ==
The A+ certification exam was updated in late 2012, with prior updates in 2009 and 2006. As such, the structure of the exam is different from what it had been for the three years preceding the update. 

The 2003 exams had an average pass rate between 3% and 10%. 

A+ certification currently entails two tests: '''CompTIA A+ 220-801 and CompTIA A+ 220-802'''. Both of these tests must be passed in order to receive A+ certification. Windows 7 is additionally addressed in the new test, despite many companies not having upgraded beyond XP. 

As of 2014, the total cost is $376 USD ($188 USD for each test). If you are a student check with your school's Career Tech programme, many degree granting schools are CompTIA Academy partners. If your school is an Academy partner, you can get the A+ voucher for a substantial discount off the retail price. Many companies that offer training are CompTIA affiliates, and can also sell you the voucher at discounted prices.

The CompTIA A+ 801 exam consists of 90 questions, and the CompTIA A+ 802 exam consists of 90 questions. A passing score on the CompTIA A+ 801 exam is 675; passing score on the CompTIA 802 exam is 700.

The CompTIA A+ 220-801 certification exam is based on these five objectives.

{|class="wikitable" style="margin:0em auto 0em auto;"
!Domain!!Percentage of Examination
|-
|PC Hardware||40%
|-
|Networking||27%
|-
|Laptops||11%
|-
|Printers||11%
|-
|Operational Procedures||11%
|-
|Total||100%
|}

The CompTIA A+ 220-802 certification exam is based on these four objectives.

{|class="wikitable" style="margin:0em auto 0em auto;"
!Domain!!Percentage of Examination
|-
|Operating Systems||33%
|-
|Security||22%
|-
|Mobile Devices||9%
|-
|Troubleshooting||36%
|-
|Total||100%
|}


In the 220-801 Certification Exam (2012 Objectives) the PC Hardware and Networking domains now make up the bulk of the exam with 40% and 27% respectively. Laptops, Printers, and Operational Procedures makes up 11% for each domain respectively.⏎
== Navigation ==
* [[/Basic Exam Info/]]
== Disassembling and reassembling a computer ==

One of the best things you can do to prepare for the exam is to learn the function of and how to identify the hardware inside of a computer. The following is a rough guideline for the order in which to disconnect components from your computer system. '''Be sure to place items in anti-static bags, where appropriate'''. Static electricity can damage components or destroy data. Always wear an anti-static wrist strap when working in(contracted; show full)* [[Server+ Certification]]
* [[Linux+ Certification]]
* [[LPI Linux Certification]]
* [[CIW Certification|CIW Home]]

{{alphabetical|A}}
{{subjects|IT certifications}}
{{status|25%}}