Why Use This Book?
With over 20 years and layer upon layer of microcomputer hardware and software technology to study, even the most knowledgeable technician needs help getting ready for the A+ exams. This book is intended to shorten your preparation time for the A+ exams. This book is a no-nonsense reference and study guide for the A+ Core Hardware exam (test #220-201) and the OS (Operating Systems) Technologies exam (test #220-202). It focuses on the areas likely to be on the exam, plus it provides background information to help you understand some of the more complex concepts and technologies. The concepts, processes, and applications on the exams are presented in this book in step-by-step lists, tables, and figures without long explanations. The focus is on preparing you for the A+ exams, not on my obviously extensive and impressive knowledge of computer technology (nor on my modesty, I might add). This book will not provide you with an in-depth background on PC hardware and software. It will, however, prepare you to take the A+ Core Hardware and OS Technologies exams. In developing this book, I made two assumptions: l You have knowledge of electronics, computers, software, networking, troubleshooting procedures, and customer relations, and need a study guide for the exams. l You have limited knowledge of electronics, computer hardware, and the processes used to repair, maintain, and upgrade PCs and could use a little refresher on the basics along with a review and study guide for the exams. If my assumptions in either case suit your needs, then this book is for you.