Welcome to the Hardware & Upgrading FAQ Page

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Welcome to the CertForums Hardware & Upgrading FAQ Page

What is the purpose of this forum?

This forum is designed for members to ask any questions about computer hardware problems. This includes troubleshooting, hardware comparison, upgrading an existing system, and how to build your own system.

How is this related to the A+ Certification forum?

The two forums are only superficially similar. The A+ forum is specifically designed for questions regarding the studying for and taking of that particular CompTIA exam. While the A+ exam has a strong hardware component, this forum has a much broader focus and is not “exam driven”.

Can I ask questions about peripheral devices as well as PC systems?

Absolutely. This is a generalist forum so questions regarding any type of computer related device and component is fair game. This would include printers, scanners, or any other external device including SCSI, USB, and Firewire devices.

What if no one answers my question?

Hopefully, someone on the forum will always be able to help, but in those instances when you receive no response in a timely manner, please direct your comments to the forum moderator or the site administrator. Also, please keep in mind that, if your question is quite involved, it may take a bit of research on a responders part before they can provide any assistance. Please try to be patient.

How detailed should my question be?

The more detail, the better. Very often, it is difficult to respond meaningfully to a question if not enough detail in included. Sometimes, of course, it can be hard to know how much detail to include in an initial question and, in that event, responders may ask you to clarify certain points.

Are there any good sites on the internet for information on computer hardware?

Certforums has a separate “Top Sites” page with links to web pages we’ve found particularly helpful as tutorials and information providers. It is categorized by type and you can refer to those sites under “Hardware” for further assistance. Also, a member may suggest a particular website to you as part of their response to your question.

Are there any books that are particularly good for learning computer hardware?

The number of computer hardware texts on the market are endless. Nevertheless, two particular books useful to the beginner are:

A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, 4th Edition by Mike Meyers

While this text focuses on the A+ Certification, it is also very helpful in learning beginning PC Hardware maintenance, repair, and upgrading. It is highly recommended. Meyers has 25 years of experience in the computer industry, and is considered the leading authority on A+ Certification, an industry-wide, vendor- neutral certification program certifying basic competence in supporting microcomputers.




Upgrading and Repairing PCs 15th Edition by Scott Mueller

This is most likely the generalist hardware text on the subject. It covers a broader scope than the Meyers book and is an extremely useful guide for any technician from the newbie to the guru. Upgrading and Repairing PCs is the runaway best-selling PC hardware book of all time and one of the best-selling computer books ever! This 15th Edition is loaded with the most up-to-date hardware information anywhere. World-renowned PC hardware expert Scott Mueller has taught thousands in his weeklong seminars and millions through his books, videos and articles..