Technology systems can include a multitude of external hardware devices and internal hardware components. Over time it is necessary to maintain the system to repair faults (such as a loose component) and improve performance or upgrade the system’s functionality (for instance by installing a faster processor). Job roles that demonstrate installing and maintaining computer hardware include computer technician, technical support engineer, service team leader, and helpdesk engineer. In this unit, you will develop an understanding of the benefits and implications of installing and maintaining hardware in technology systems.

For a specific brief, you will install and maintain hardware in a technology system. This will involve finding and repairing faults with the internal hardware components of a computer, such as the processor or internal bus, and upgrading other internal components, such as adding a network card or additional memory. You will also learn how to install a new external hardware device, such as a printer or barcode scanner.

The technology system will then be tested for functionality and performance. Once completed, you will review your modified technology system against the brief and obtain feedback from the ‘client’, and evaluate possible