ITSM 1213 IT Systems and Hardware Syllabus 810 Fall 2026

Credit Hours 3.00 Lecture Hours 2 Clinical/Lab Hours 2
Type of Credit
CIP Code
11.1006
Course Meeting Time

Course prefix and number: ITSM 1213

Course Title: IT Systems and Hardware

Room Location: D122, Workforce Development Center

In-Person Class Days/Times: T/TH 6-9pm (8 wks)

Credit hours: 3 Credits

Lecture hours: 2

Clinical/Lab hours: 2

Semester:

Fall 2025

Catalog description

This course, the first in a two-course series, provides the computer hardware and software skills needed to help meet the growing demand for entry-level information technology professionals. The fundamentals of computer architecture including operating systems, central processing unit (CPU), RAM, storage, basic input/output systems, and software and peripherals will be introduced as well as relevant responsibilities of an IT professional. Basics of hardware, software and network troubleshooting skills will also be covered. This course prepares students for the CompTIA® A+ Core 1 exam. Operational knowledge of PCs, software and Internet technologies is strongly recommended before enrollment.

Course Description

This course, the first in a two-course series, provides the computer hardware and software skills needed to help meet the growing demand for entry-level information technology professionals. The fundamentals of computer architecture including operating systems, central processing unit (CPU), RAM, storage, basic input/output systems, and software and peripherals will be introduced as well as relevant responsibilities of an IT professional. Basics of hardware, software and network troubleshooting skills will also be covered. This course prepares students for the CompTIA® A+ Core 1 (1101) exam. Operational knowledge of PCs, software and Internet technologies is strongly recommended before enrollment.

Prerequisites

Operational knowledge of PCs, software and Internet technologies strongly recommended

Explanation of Course Alignment

Course Outcomes

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Explain cable types and connectors.
  2. Install and configure motherboards.
  3. Install and configure power supplies, cooling, storage devices, memory and CPUs.
  4. Configure PC BIOS/UEFI.
  5. Configure power, disk, system and display issues.
  6. Apply troubleshooting methodology.
  7. Configure wired and wireless network types and hardware.
  8. Configure Network Addressing and Internet Connections.
  9. Troubleshoot networks and services.
  10. Explain client-side virtualization and cloud.
  11. Install, configure and troubleshoot mobile devices and peripherals.
  12. Install, configure and troubleshoot printers and multifunction devices.

Topical Outline

  1. Installing Motherboards and Connectors
    1. Install, configure, and troubleshoot PC motherboards, system components, and peripheral devices.
    2. Compare networking hardware types and configure local addressing and Internet connections.
    3. Summarize uses for network services, virtualization, and cloud computing.
    4. Support the use of mobile devices and print devices.
  2. Installing System Devices
    1. Install and configure power supplies and cooling.
    2. Select and install storage devices.
    3. Install and configure system memory.
    4. Install and configure CPUs.
  3. Troubleshooting PC Hardware
    1. Apply troubleshooting methodology.
    2. Configure BIOS/UEFI.
    3. Troubleshoot power and disk issues.
    4. Troubleshoot system and display issues.
  4. Comparing Local Networking Hardware
    1. Compare network types.
    2. Compare networking hardware.
    3. Explain network cable types.
    4. Compare wireless networking types.
  5. Configuring Network Addressing and Internet Connections
    1. Compare Internet connection types.
    2. Use basic TCP/IP concepts.
    3. Compare protocols and ports.
    4. Compare network configuration concepts.
  6. Supporting Network Services
    1. Summarize services provided by networked hosts.
    2. Compare Internet and embedded appliances.
    3. Troubleshoot networks.
  7. Summarizing Virtualization and Cloud Concepts
    1. Summarize client-side virtualization.
    2. Summarize cloud concepts.
  8. Supporting Mobile Devices
    1. Set up mobile devices and peripherals.
    2. Configure mobile device apps.
    3. Install and configure laptop hardware.
    4. Troubleshoot mobile device issues.
  9. Supporting Print Devices
    1. Deploy printer and multifunction devices.
    2. Replace print device consumables.
    3. Troubleshoot print device issues.
  10. Implementing Operational Procedures
    1. Implement best practice documentation.
    2. Use proper communication techniques.
    3. Use common safety and environmental procedures.

Faculty Contact Information

Faculty Name
Courtney Stewart
Faculty Email
Faculty Phone
815-295-6605
Faculty Information

Faculty Contact Information

Courtney Stewart

Adjunct Professor

815-295-6605

cstewart@kcc.edu

 

Paul Carlson

Dean - Business, Technology & Human Services

815-802-8858

pcarlson@kcc.edu

Division Office

W102

815-802-8850

Course Information

Course Outcomes

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Explain cable types and connectors.
  2. Install and configure motherboards.
  3. Install and configure power supplies, cooling, storage devices , memory and CPUs.
  4. Configure PC BIOS/UEFI.
  5. Configure power, disk, system and display issues.
  6. Apply troubleshooting methodology.
  7. Configure wired and wireless network types and hardware.
  8. Configure Network Addressing and Internet Connections.
  9. Troubleshoot networks and services.
  10. Explain client-side virtualization and cloud.
  11. Install, configure and troubleshoot mobile devices and peripherals.
  12. Install, configure and troubleshoot printers and multifunction devices.
Topical Outline
  1. Installing Motherboards and Connectors
    1. Install, configure, and troubleshoot PC motherboards, system components, and peripheral devices.
    2. Compare networking hardware types and configure local addressing and Internet connections.
    3. Summarize uses for network services, virtualization, and cloud computing.
    4. Support the use of mobile devices and print devices.
  2. Installing System Devices
    1. Install and configure power supplies and cooling.
    2. Select and install storage devices.
    3. Install and configure system memory.
    4. Install and configure CPUs.
  3. Troubleshooting PC Hardware
    1. Apply troubleshooting methodology.
    2. Configure BIOS/UEFI.
    3. Troubleshoot power and disk issues.
    4. Troubleshoot system and display issues.
  4. Comparing Local Networking Hardware
    1. Compare network types.
    2. Compare networking hardware.
    3. Explain network cable types.
    4. Compare wireless networking types.
  5. Configuring Network Addressing and Internet Connections
    1. Compare Internet connection types.
    2. Use basic TCP/IP concepts.
    3. Compare protocols and ports.
    4. Compare network configuration concepts.
  6. Supporting Network Services
    1. Summarize services provided by networked hosts.
    2. Compare Internet and embedded appliances.
    3. Troubleshoot networks.
  7. Summarizing Virtualization and Cloud Concepts
    1. Summarize client-side virtualization.
    2. Summarize cloud concepts.
  8. Supporting Mobile Devices
    1. Set up mobile devices and peripherals.
    2. Configure mobile device apps.
    3. Install and configure laptop hardware.
    4. Troubleshoot mobile device issues.
  9. Supporting Print Devices
    1. Deploy printer and multifunction devices.
    2. Replace print device consumables.
    3. Troubleshoot print device issues.
  10. Implementing Operational Procedures
    1. Implement best practice documentation.
    2. Use proper communication techniques.
    3. Use common safety and environmental procedures.
Textbook/s and Course Materials

Additional Textbook/s and Course Materials

  • CompTIA's CertMaster Learn & Labs online environment will be utilized throughout this course
  • Student will receive access to Core 1 e-Text via the learning environment
  • You will have received an email regarding enrollment in CertMaster Learn & Labs. Please complete this ASAP.
    • Additional and optional course materials such as the hard copy of the text, CertMaster Practice, and test voucher can be purchased separately if desired.
  • The online e-text provides you with the electronic only access to the same resources. You can access these resources on a personal desktop, laptop, smart phone, tablet, etc.
  • A PC with Windows 10 or higher along with Internet access is required for successfully working with the materials to complete this course.
  • If needed, KCC may be able to lend students Windows laptops for particular tasks for a duration. You may call your program advisor, ITS (815) 802-8900 or Bookstore 815-802-8590 for more information.
Methods of Evaluation

Additional Methods of Evaluation

Student evaluation is based on points accrued via Virtual Labs (in CompTIA), Assignments, Quizzes, and Exams. Point values may change based on added or removed assignments.

  • Assignments – 30%
  • Labs – 40%
  • Quizzes – 10%
  • Exams – 20%

The corresponding grading scale will be:

  • 90-100% = A
  • 80-89% = B
  • 70-79% = C
  • 60-69% = D
  • 59% or lower = F
Academic Division

Business, Technology & Human Services

Dean, Paul Carlson; 815-802-8858; V105; pcarlson@kcc.edu; Division Office – W102; 815-802-8650

Course Policies

Course Policies

  • Attendance Policy
    • Attendance is MANDATORY
    • If a class or lab session must be missed, arrangements must be made prior to the absence.
    • If an absence is not planned, a valid excuse (i.e., doctor’s note, etc.) must be provided to the instructor for each missed session at the beginning of the following class session.
    • Make-up work, including assignments, quizzes, exams, etc., is provided at the discretion of the instructor and must be completed within one week of the missed class period.
  • Readings
    • This course requires you to read the assigned reading from the instructor.
    • Lectures will provide only an overview of the reading material.
    • You are expected to come to class prepared for that day’s lecture
  • Quizzes, Assignments L& Exams
    • Quizzes are meant to assess your recall and retention of lecture, reading, and lab materials.
    • Assignments will be administered as a follow up for select topics throughout the semester.
    • Exams are designed to assess retention of lecture and reading materials, while also assessing your ability to compare /contrast and apply concepts.
    • Quizzes may be posted on Canvas.
    • On face-to-face quiz and exam days, students must arrive on time and be ready to take the quiz or exam at the start of class.
    • If a student enters the classroom late on a quiz day, he/she may take the quiz as long as at least one student is still in possession of the quiz. If all students have completed and turned in the quiz, he/she may not take the quiz.
    • Students will not be permitted to enter the classroom and take the exam once the exam has started.
    • Once an exam or quiz has been administered, a student will not be permitted to leave for any reason until he/she turns the exam in.
    • If a student’s cell phone is disruptive during an exam or quiz, the student will receive a zero on that exam.
    • If a student is found using their cell phone in any way during an exam or quiz, it will be considered to be a case of cheating and the student will receive a zero on the exam as well as the possibility of receiving an F for the course grade.
    • Late assignments will not be accepted unless arrangements are made
  • Cell Phone Use
    • Turn off all cell phones and all other items that may beep, buzz, or otherwise interrupt the instructor and other students.
    • If you must have your cell phone on for work or a family emergency, set it to vibrate and leave the classroom if you receive a call.
    • No texting during class.
    • Failure to follow any of the above rules will result in a warning (first offense), 5 point deduction from your class grade (second offense), and removal from the class period (third and beyond offense).
  • Other Classroom Guidelines
    • You will gain the most from this course if you actively participate in classroom and lab discussions and share your experiences and questions.
    • Learn the names of your classmates and help one another whenever possible (but not during quizzes and exams).
    • Take responsibility for the classroom and lab areas by picking up after yourself.
    • Arrive promptly before class begins.
    • No tobacco products may be used on campus.
    • Do not come to class when you are ill and likely to infect others.
    • Minor children are not allowed in the classroom or lab areas for safety reasons.
    • No students will be allowed to work in lab areas outside of class time without instructor permission and appropriate supervision.
  • Student Integrity
    • All students are expected to take quizzes, exams, write papers, and conduct themselves with integrity, common sense, and respect for their fellow students, the instructor, and the academic institution.
    • Students should not jeopardize their own honesty or that of other students.
    • Cheating will not be tolerated.
      • Upon evidence of student cheating, the student will be dropped from the course and receive a grade of F in the course
Course Calendar

 

 DatesContentAssignment/Lab/Quiz/Test
Week 1Aug 17 – 23
  • 1.1 – The Hero of Problem Solving
  • 1.2 – The Troubleshooting Methodology
  • 2.1 – Cables and Connectors Part 1
  • 2.1 – Cables and Connectors Part 2
  • 2.2 – Motherboards Part 1
  • 2.2 – Motherboards Part 2
  • 2.3 – Legacy Cables
  • Lesson 1 Quiz
  • Lesson 2 Quiz
  • Virtual Lab – Explore the Lab Interface
  • Virtual Lab – Install USB Devices
  • Virtual Lab – Set Up a Desktop Computer
  • Virtual Lab – Choose and Install a Motherboard
  • Virtual Lab – Upgrade a Video Card
  • Assignment – Motherboard Diagram Creation
Week 2Aug 24 – 30
  • 3.1 – Power Supplies and Cooling
  • 3.2 – Storage Devices
  • 3.3 – System Memory
  • 3.4 – CPUs
  • Lesson 3 Quiz
  • Virtual Lab – Select and Configure Dual Monitors
  • Virtual Lab – Set up an A/V Workstation
  • Virtual Lab – Install a Power Supply
  • Virtual Lab – Troubleshoot Power Supply Problems
  • Virtual Lab – Install SATA Devices
  • Virtual Lab – Select Memory by Sight
  • Virtual Lab – Install Triple Channel Memory
  • Assignment – Create a CPU Architecture Diagram
Week 3Aug 31 – Sept 6
  • 4.1 – BIOS and UEFI
  • 4.2 – Power and Disk Issues Part 1
  • 4.2 – Power and Disk Issus Part 2
  • 4.3 – System and Display Issues
  • Lesson 4 Quiz
  • Checkpoint Review Test
  • Virtual Lab – Troubleshoot Memory
  • Virtual Lab – Find BIOS/UEFI Settings
  • Virtual Lab - Configure BIOS/UEFI Security
  • Virtual Lab – Troubleshoot System Power
  • Virtual Lab – Troubleshoot System Startup
  • Virtual Lab – Troubleshoot Boot Issues
  • Virtual Lab – Troubleshoot Drive Availability
  • Assignment – Create a Troubleshooting Checklist
Week 4Sept 7 – 13
  • 5.1 – Network Types
  • 5.2 – Networking Hardware
  • 5.3 – Network Cable Types
  • 5.4 – Wireless Networking Types
  • Lesson 5 Quiz
  • Virtual Lab – Select and Install a Network Adapter
  • Virtual Lab – Connect Patch Panel Cables
  • Virtual Lab – Connect Computers with a Switch
  • Assignment – Network Design Challenge
Week 5Sept 14 – 20
  • 6.1 – Internet Connection Types
  • 6.2 – TCP/IP Concepts
  • 6.3 – Network Communications
  • 6.4 – Network Configuration Concepts
  • Lesson 6 Quiz
  • Virtual Lab – Secure a Small Wireless Network
  • Virtual Lab – SOHO Wi-Fi Configuration Settings
  • Virtual Lab – Connect a Cable Modem
  • Virtual Lab – Connect Fiber Optic Cables
  • Virtual Lab – Configure IP Addresses
  • Assignment – Create a TCP/IP Infographic
Week 6Sept 21 – 27
  • 7.1 – Networked Host Services
  • 7.2 – Internet and Embedded Appliances
  • 7.3 – Troubleshoot Networks
  • 8.1 – Client-Side Virtualization
  • 8.2 – Cloud Concepts
  • Lesson 7 Quiz
  • Lesson 8 Quiz
  • Checkpoint Review Test
  • Virtual Lab – Install a SOHO Network
  • Virtual Lab – Use a Proxy Server
  • Virtual Lab – Fix a Network Connection
  • Virtual Lab – Troubleshoot a Network Issue
  • Assignment – Cloud Service Model Exploration
Week 7Sept 28 – Oct 4
  • 9.1 – Mobile Devices and Peripherals
  • 9.2 – Mobile Apps and Data
  • 9.3 – Laptop Hardware
  • 9.4 – Troubleshoot Mobile Devices
  • 10.1 – Printers and Multifunction Devices
  • 10.2 – Print Device Maintenance
  • 10.3 – Troubleshoot Print Devices
  • Lesson 9 Quiz
  • Lesson 10 Quiz
  • Checkpoint Review Test
  • Virtual Lab – Explore Virtualization
  • Virtual Lab – Create Virtual Hard Disks
  • Virtual Lab – Manage Mobile Devices
  • Assignment – Laptop Hardware Budgeting Activity
  • Virtual Lab – Mobile Hardware Support
  • Virtual Lab – Select and Install a Printer
  • Virtual Lab – Configure Network Printing
  • Virtual Lab – Resolve Print Services Support Tickets
Week 8Oct 5 – 9
  • CompTIA A+ Core Exam Review
  • CompTIA A+ Practice Exams
  • Practice Exam #1 – Mobile Devices
  • Practice Exam #2 – Networking
  • Practice Exam #3 – Hardware
  • Practice Exam #4: Virtualization and Cloud Computing
  • Practice Exam #5: Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
  • Practice Exam #6: Core 1 Exam Practice
  • Practice Exam #7: Competency in IT Hardware and Network Support

College Policies, Resources and Supports

College Policies

For information related to the Student Code of Conduct Policy, Withdrawal Policy, Email Policy, and Non- Attendance/Non-Participation Policy, please review the college’s Code of Campus Affairs and Regulations webpage, which can be found at catalog.kcc.edu under the Academic Regulations & Conduct Guide. 

Resources

KCC offers various academic and personal resources for all students. Many services are offered virtually, as well as in person. Please visit Student Resources - Kankakee Community College to access student resources services such as:

  • Clubs and organizations
  • Counseling and referral services
  • Office of disability services
  • Student complaint policy
  • Transfer services
  • Tutoring services, etc.