Calderdale College

Faculty of Business & Technology

BTEC: Unit 2 Ass #1 Computer Systems

Learning Outcomes

1. Understand the hardware components of computer systems.

2. Understand the software components of computer systems.
3. Be able to undertake routine computer maintenance.

Primary Key Skills (signposted in each unit within the specifications)

Attempted Achieved

Student Declaration

“The attached assignment is my own work and all sources of information have been recognised.”

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Date:

Submission Date: 29-11-07

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2nd deadline:

2nd deadline achieved? YES NO

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Unit Title 2. Computer Systems Assignment Title 1.

1
Calderdale College
Faculty of Business & Technology

Learner Name
… ………………………………………………………..

Assessment Criteria Achieved Evidence Comments/Feedback

P1 Explain the function of the system unit
components and how they communicate.

P2 Describe the purpose, feature and functions

of two different operating systems.

P3 Demonstrate the operation and explain the

use of two different software utilities.

M1 Explain and implement the installation and

configuration of an additional or replacement
device.

M2 Compare the features and functions of two

different operating systems

D1 Evaluate at least three specifications for

commercially available computer systems and
justify the one most suitable for use in a given
situation

D2 Justify the considerations for selection in

the upgrade of an existing computer
system.

Assessor’s Signature ………………………… Date …………………..

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Learner’s
Signature Date
………………………… …………………..
Unit 2 Assignment 1. Computer Systems
2
Calderdale College
Faculty of Business & Technology

Scenario
The company you work for needs you to be fully conversant with P.C hardware, BIOS settings and OS installation,
configurations and also software and hardware maintenance
In order to facilitate this you are required to write a series of reports regarding different hardware components,
BIOS and O.S. configurations, and also general P.C. maintenance.

In order to show that you have an understanding of the subject area you need to complete the following tasks: -

Task 1: -Explain the function of the main hardware components of a P.C. and how they communicate with each
other.
This is to be done by making a list of all the hardware. Then using the Internet, download an image of each part
explain what it does and how it does it, also explain the bus mechanism/interface used for each device.
(P1)

Task 2: -Why is an operating system necessary on a P.C.?

What functions does the operating system actually carry out?
Select two different operating systems and list a range of the features and functions of each.
(P2)

Task 3: -You are to demonstrate the operation and use of two different software utilities, by carrying out and
explaining the steps outlined in Lab 2-1 (Defrag and partitioning of a hard disk drive). (P3)

Task 4: - This is to be achieved by installing and configuring an extra or replacement device in the P.C.
This is covered in Lab 2-2 (Installing a H.D.D/ graphics card or N.I.C.) You will also be required to describe
how you completed this task. (M1)

Task 5: -Using the two O.S.’s chosen for task 2 compare the features and functionality of each, then draw up a
table comparing their strengths and weaknesses and finally draw up a summary in which you conclude which O.S
is the most suitable for a given situation.
(M2)

Task 6: - You will be given a specification and cost for a P.C. and for this you will have to obtain three costs from
three different sources. You will then have to go through each quote in turn and select which one you think is the
most suitable and justify your decision.
(D1)

Task 7: -You will be given a computer system, you will then need to look carefully at it and see how you can
upgrade its performance. You will then have to write a report justifying how you made your choices.

(D2)