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[Posted 14 January 2014 by Kathy Yale]

The thought of sitting down and taking a test can be terrifying for some individuals. Knowing that the results of a test can drastically affect your life will only increase the anxiety level. However, there are ways to prepare for the test and ensure that the test results come back as high as possible. With the right preparation materials, most people can walk into the A+ certification exam feeling ready and confident. 

Learn What is Required

The key to succeeding is setting appropriate goals and working towards them. With the A+ certification exam, that starts with knowing what to expect and what’s required. This exam is broken into two sections, and testers are allowed a maximum of 90 minutes for each one. There are multiple choice and performance-based components. The passing score for the 220-801 is 675 out of 900, and the passing scale for the 220-802 is 700 out of 900 possible.

Work with Updated Information

It’s also important to keep up with changing information on the exam. This is a technology based certification, so it’s updated regularly to keep up with changing technology. One example would be the removal of Windows 2000 and the incorporation of Windows 7 and various mobile devices. The most updated preparation information is required to ensure that people are ready to take this test and perform well on it.

Practice Problems

Knowing the information is important, but it’s also important to know how information will be presented. It’s possible for someone to be confident with all of the details and still answer incorrectly because they read the question wrong. With quality practice materials, potential test takers can work on problems that are very similar to what they’ll see on the test. They’ll make a few mistakes in the practice sessions, but they’ll go into the actual examination ready for the types of questions and scenarios that will be presented. 

Flexible Learning Materials Suit Every Test Taker

No two people are exactly the same, and one test taker will learn the material more quickly by watching a video while another will prefer to read the information. The top preparation materials understand this simple fact and offer flexible materials that are ideally suited to each test taker. The best systems will allow individuals to choose between written materials, videos and practice tests that are based on the actual examination. They’ll also have instructors standing by who can answer questions and provide test takers with the extra assistance they need. The materials will work together seamlessly and allow test takers to prepare in the way that best suits their learning style and needs.

The A+ Certification is required by the Department of Homeland Security, Dell, Ricoh and Lenovo all require technicians to have this valuable certification, and it gives job applicants an important edge when they’re applying for any job that uses computers on a constant basis. The test itself is not terribly expensive, and taking it can make a difference in how far someone is able to take their career. The stress level associated with this test can be high, but test takers can decrease that stress by investing in preparation materials that will help them pass this test the first time around. It’s a small expense to pay to ensure that test takers are ready for the test and will handle the examination with the minimal amount of stress.

[Posted 13 January 2014 by Kathy Yale]

Even the most knowledgeable, trained computer expert needs help preparing for an important test like the CompTIA A+ certification examination. Fortunately, Total Seminars has everything you need to get ready for the A+ and most other CompTIA certification exams.

Earning Your A+ Certification

The A+ certification was introduced by CompTIA in the early 1990s and was one of the first methods of computer knowledge certification to be widely recognized. Since its inception, the exams and certification process have been updated regularly in response to changing technologies. The current A+ certification requires an individual to successfully pass a series of two examinations, Sections 220-801 and 220-802. Each exam lasts 90 minutes and consists of 90 multiple choice questions. The test also includes a hands-on section delivered to the test-taker in real-time. This portion of the exam is designed to test the ability of an individual to tackle common issues that computer technicians may encounter on a daily basis. Other general topics covered by the exams include basic computer hardware and software, installation, networking, mobile devices and problem-solving.

Test Prep Tailored To Your Needs

Whether you need a full course or just a brief review of the material covered by the A+ exam series, Total Seminars is ready to help. We provide a comprehensive textbook, the All-in-One CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Guide, that includes the information an examinee will most likely encounter on both the 220-801 and 220-802 sections of the certification. This textbook is also accompanied by a computer disk to facilitate studying. The material covered in the book is available in a video series that contains over 200 different installments, each of which addresses in detail a different computer technology topic. Practice tests that can be used for review purposes or to become familiar with the format of the test and the phrasing of questions are also available for purchase. In addition to being sold as individual products, our high-quality study products are bundled into money-saving packages that contain just the materials you’re looking for. Exam vouchers that provide admission to an approved testing facility in your area can also be found at Total Seminars and are even included in some of the pre-packaged bundles with the study books, videos and practice tests.

Newly Updated Study Guides

The team at Total Seminars makes it our business to stay abreast of changes and reformatting of CompTIA certification examinations. In response to the most recent revisions to the A+ examination series, our study guide and related materials were revised in August 2012, just ahead of the changes. Our new materials were updated to reflect revisions to the exams that included expanded questions on mobile devices and the latest in computer hardware and software. Although previous editions of A+ study guides will contain some of the information you’ll need to prepare for the exams, purchasing the most up-to-date versions of the study materials and practice tests ensures that you’re fully prepared and gives you the best shot at passing this challenging set of tests.

In any type of career, professional certification can give a distinct advantage to individuals who expend the time and effort necessary to achieve it. If you’re interested in becoming a computer technician or working in any field related to computer technology, don’t wait to start working on your A+ certification. Contact Total Seminars for more information about our high-quality study materials, and start preparing today to become A+ certified.

[Posted 7 January 2014 by Kathy Yale]

The A+ certification exam is a staple test for those interested in pursuing a career in technology. Jobs such as technical support specialists, IT support administrators, IT support specialists, or field service technicians use the A+ certification as a tool for measuring an individual’s competency regarding computer-related issues. The certification can be a great starting place for a person hoping to begin a career in IT. The examination provides employers with a tool for measuring an applicant’s skill set and is a prerequisite for many computer-related service jobs in the United States. If interested in technology jobs, taking the A+ certification exam serves as the launching pad for a new career in 2014.

What’s on the Test?

The A+ certification exam is a 90-minute exam that covers the basics of PC operating systems, basic networking, laptops and computer hardware, and computer software and installation. In addition to multiple choice questions, the exam also assesses test-takers’ knowledge base through the use of performance-based challenges and fill-in-the-blank questions. These questions challenge testers to solve problems or tasks in an environment that simulates real-world problems and trouble-shooting situations.

Preparing for the Exam

Before taking the exam, it is recommended that test-takers have at least 6 months to 1 year of experience in a related field, or have a strong understanding of computer operation, set-up, and trouble-shooting. Once a firm base of knowledge in computer-related sciences is established, a person can study through the exam in a variety of ways: A+ certification books are available; online resources and study guides are a great option; and a person can even enroll in an A+ preparatory course. While a preparatory course is not required to take the exam, it is recommended if experience is limited. In addition to thoroughly studying for the exam, practice tests are available online. Taking many timed practice tests is a suggested method of adequately preparing for the test.

Benefits of Receiving an A+ Certification

The certification is valid for three years with the option of keeping it current through continuing education programs. If the test is completed with satisfactory marks, it serves as a career promoter for those in the technology field or those hoping to pursue a career in IT. An A+ certification qualifies recipients for the jobs of a help desk technician, a field service technician, a PC technician, and many manufacturing positions. With an A+ certification, applicants can search for jobs in a variety of other fields, too, including hardware, administration, and development. Typically, an A+ certification also comes with a salary increase for those who pass the examination. For most people, an A+ certification is the perfect way to start a job in entry-level positions, assuming a person has a limited amount of experience and does not already possess a degree in computer science. However, for those who do have a degree in computer science, the A+ certification may still be key for a new career for entry-level positions, promotions, or in order to move into a higher-salary bracket.

The A+ certification is a great way to kick start a career in 2014. It can result in hiring opportunities for new applicants in the IT field and it can be the certification needed for a promotion to a new position. Start the New Year off right with the A+ certification exam.

[Posted 24 December 2013 by Kathy Yale]

The A+ Certification Exam has become the standard for those who want to show their computer skills to potential employers. The CompTIA A+ Test consists of several sections, including PC Hardware, Networking, Laptops, Printers, Operational Procedures, Operating Systems, Security, Mobile Devices and Troubleshooting. It is designed to provide a comprehensive view of a candidate’s knowledge, skills and experience so that employers can hire those who are proficient in the computer field.

Hardware Objectives

While it is important to understand how software causes a computer to operate, it is also important to know exactly how the hardware supports the operation of the computer. Without functioning hardware components, no programs will work. Therefore, the CompTIA A+ Certification test focuses a portion of its questions on PC hardware.

On the first part of the test, 38 percent of the questions focus on hardware objectives. Test takers are asked questions relating to installation, maintenance and repair of storage devices. Test takers must understand HDD, including SATA, PATA and Solid State storage; FDD; optical drives, including CD, DVD, Blu-Ray and RW; removable storage and external storage.

Regarding motherboards, questions may be included about jumper settings; CMOS batteries; advanced BIOS settings; bus speeds; chipsets; firmware updates; socket types; expansion slots; memory slots; front panel connectors; and I/O ports, including sound, video, USB, parallel, modem and PS/2. Successful testers must also understand wattage and capacity; connector types; and output voltage of power supplies.

In addition, questions include the areas of socket types; speed; number of cores; power consumption; cache; front side bus; and 32 bit v. 64 bit processors. Test takers must be conversant with the basic hardware associated with computer memory. Graphics cards, sound cards, storage controllers, I/O cards, wired and wireless network cards, capture cards and media readers are also all covered on the test along with cooling system components including heat sinks, thermal compound, CPU fans and case fans. 

Not only should test takers be familiar with how to analyze, repair and maintain all of these components; they should also be ready to select and use the following tools properly:

• Multimeter
• Power supply tester
• Specialty hardware and tools
• Cable testers
• Loop back plugs
• Anti-static pad and wrist strap
• Extension magnet

Test takers will also be asked questions about printers, including how to analyze and repair paper jams, junk printing, out of memory errors, lines and smearing, blank paper and ghosted images.

How Can I Prepare for the Hardware Section of the A+ Certification Exam?

One of the most common suggestions made to those who are preparing for the A+ Certification Exam’s hardware section is to take apart and put back together a computer, printer and other devices covered on the test. This is one of the easiest ways to familiarize yourself with the parts of the machine and to see how they work together. 

While this is invaluable practice for some people, others also prefer to review schematic diagrams or read preparatory materials. There are many books and other items that are devoted to the topic of hardware that can be found at Total Seminars. It may be especially helpful to read preparatory materials while working on a hands-on repair job on a computer or printer.

[Posted 17 December 2013 by Kathy Yale]

The A+ certification is an important credential for those who want to start or advance their IT career.  It is an internationally recognized benchmark utilized by the computer industry to ensure IT professionals achieve a basic competency in concepts and skills employees would need to be successful. Technicians are expected to demonstrate knowledge of a range of topics including installation, upgrading and troubleshooting. An understanding of network configurations and operating systems is also necessary.

The A+ certification was developed and is supported by the Computing Technology Industry Association. Major computer companies such as Microsoft, Dell, Apple and IBM embrace it because it provides standardization of qualifications across the entire industry in the United States and internationally. This means employers in an increasingly globalized economy will have a better idea of the capabilities of each job applicant they interview and will be able to find the best fit for their positions. The certification ensures that individuals will be skilled in the latest technology including tablets, smartphones, and other mobile devices.

The Growing Need for Mobile Device Certification

This attention on mobile devices is partially a result of Bring Your Own Devices (BYOD) policies. Because it is increasingly common for employees to bring their own smart phones and tablets to the office, businesses are beginning to have employees use them as their primary work devices. As a matter of policy, many companies are beginning to use mobile technology as a primary means to operate their business. Industry professionals across the board are utilizing iPhones, iPads and tablet devices and, as a result, it is becoming increasingly necessary for IT professionals to become trained on the inner workings of these devices.

Apple offers a consultant network made up of private contractors to provide companies with onsite IT support for its products. These Apple contractors must be A+ certified as a basic qualification. As mobile devices continue to improve and proliferate, IT technicians will have to stay abreast of the latest developments.

Mobile Modifications to the A+ Certification Exam

The A+ Certification exam consists of two modules: the first module is Essentials, basic IT information that all technicians are expected to master. The second module gives the individual the ability to choose from three concentrations. These include IT Technician, Remote Support Technician and Depot Technician.

In 2012 CompTIA released a revised version of the exam called A+ 800 that reflects recent trends in technology as well as feedback from employers. One change is the addition of performance based questions that require test takers to perform tasks and demonstrate skills rather than simply answer multiple choice questions. Another big change in the test is the increased emphasis on iOS mobile devices including the iPad Touch and iPhone. IT technicians are also expected to show proficiency dealing with the security issues common to smart phones and tablets.

As mobile technology continues to be a fixture in the IT industry, CompTIA will continue to grow their exams to meet the needs of the industry. The A+ certification exam will evolve and adapt to the changing circumstances in the corporate world as it adopts the latest innovations in IT.

[Posted 10 December 2013 by Kathy Yale]

As of January 2011, the CompTIA A+ certification exams began to incorporate content related to Windows 7. This addition reflected the changes in computer usage and the growing number of people utilizing this operating system.

What Is The CompTIA A+ Exam?

The CompTIA A+ Exam is the certification platform used by many IT professionals to prove their level of skill in handling all types of computer devices and software. The content of the CompTIA A+ certification exam is governed by a board of representatives from some of the top names in computer hardware and programming, including Richo, Sharp, Lenovo, HP and ASI Electronics.

The CompTIA A+ exam offers certification related to practical skills as well as knowledge of computer operating systems and hardware. Currently, the CompTIA A+ certification exam covers the following areas:

• PC Hardware
• Networking
• Laptops
• Printers
• Operational Procedures
• Operating Systems
• Security
• Mobile Devices
• Troubleshooting

Windows 7 was released in 2009 and represented a leap forward in personal computing technology. This operating system was incorporated into the CompTIA A+ certification 
exam at the request of many of the makers of the latest computer devices such as laptops, PCs and tablets. Windows 7 questions are included under both the Essentials and Practical Applications sections of the CompTIA A+ test.

Where Do Windows 7 Questions Appear on the CompTIA A+ Test?

Windows 7 content has been added to several sections of the CompTIA A+ Certification Exam and will represent a portion of both practical and foundational knowledge questions. The new content appears in the following areas on the 700 series tests:

CompTIA A+ Essentials, Section 220-701– 3.0 Operating Systems

This section of the test asks basic questions about several operating systems, including Windows 7. Also included are Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 8. These questions, which make up a total of 33 percent of the test, can be broken down as follows:

CompTIA A+ Essentials, Section 220-701–and 4.0 Software and Networking

As part of the questions related to overall software and networking knowledge, Windows 7 questions are integrated into the assessment items.

CompTIA A+ Practical Application, Section 220-702–2.0 Operating Systems

This section of the test focuses on more practical applications of the Windows 7 system and may ask test takers to project solutions to problems or speculate on how Windows 7 affects the operation of various tasks.

CompTIA A+ Practical Application, Section 220-702–4.0 Security

This section relates Windows 7 to systems security.

Because CompTIA A+ certification is globally recognized by both the public and private sectors and is required by many employers, those who are interested in studying for and passing the test should focus on the operational aspects as well as the security aspects of Windows 7. 

The new 800 series tests also include information on Windows 7. Because the test is transitioning from 700 to 800 series, many test takers are choosing to take the new version which will offer a longer certification option. 

The 800 series CompTIA A+ certification tests include more information on Windows 7 than the 700 series. In fact, the 800 versions of the test now compact most of the 700 material and adds more questions on the "Unique to OS" features of Windows 7, XP and Vista. The 800 series of tests no longer covers Windows 2000 or ME.

[Posted 9 December 2013 by Kathy Yale]

The CompTIA A+ certification is an excellent way for any computer specialist to demonstrate his or her knowledge in the field of computers and computer technology. The CompTIA A+ certification is broken down into two separate examinations, A+ Essentials and A+ Practical Application. Each examination is 90 minutes long and consists of 90 multiple choice questions. The two exam sections cover different topics in computing, and each requires focused preparation in order to have the best chances of meeting the full certification requirements on the first attempt. 

Comptia A+ Essentials—Section 220-801

The CompTIA A+ Essentials 220-801 examination of the A+ certification is comprised mainly of questions relating to computer hardware. The newest version of the examination consolidates all hardware-related topics into this section and also covers information on computer networking and basic operation. Knowledge the test-taker should possess before attempting this section includes, but is not limited to, the ability to perform the following tasks:

• Assembly and set-up of different brands of computers, including laptops
• Connection of keyboards and other control devices
• Connection of peripheral devices, such as printers and monitors
• Use of uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) devices
• Connection with the internet via dial-up, wi-fi or ethernet
• Use of passwords and firewalls
• Use of USB cables and other connectors
• Installation of routers
• Use of basic networking technology
• Set-up of computer-related gaming devices and home theaters

Comptia A+ Practical Application—Section 220-802

Section 220-801 of the CompTIA A+ examination covers topics that are primarily related to the use of computers after installation and set-up. Systems configuration, security, repair and troubleshooting make up a large portion of this examination. Below is a selection of the material covered in the 220-802 examination:

• Configuration of the latest versions of operating systems and software
• Securing computers and networks, both physically and virtually
• Set-up and use of mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets
• Locating and repairing hardware, software and networking problems

Preparing For The Comptia A+ Examinations

The CompTIA A+ examinations do not focus on any specific brands or products, but instead include information on the array of products manufactured by many different companies. The all-encompassing nature of the material covered on these examinations may seem overwhelming, but exam preparation materials are available to make studying easier. Study materials can be purchased in a textbook or video format, and practice versions of the exams with answers are available so that an exam-taker can test his or her knowledge prior to taking the actual exams. Practice tests are also excellent resources to gauge the effectiveness of the study materials used. While not a guarantee of success, thoroughly studying the material most likely to be covered on the exams can greatly improve the chances of passing the exams on the first attempt. Extensive hands-on experience is also essential to performing well on the CompTIA A+ exams. 

Mastering the information included on both examinations that make up the CompTIA A+ certification is important to any individual who hopes to pursue a successful career as a computer technician or IT specialist. As with most examinations, adequate preparation is crucial to success. High-quality study materials are available to help prospective test-takers prepare for these challenging examinations so that they are passed on the first attempt, and time is not wasted taking and re-taking them.

[Posted 3 December 2013 by Kathy Yale]

When preparing for an important and challenging examination like the CompTIA A+ certification, it is best to leave nothing to chance. Many people who take the A+ examination for the first time are not certain about the format and topics covered by the examination and benefit from having access to high-quality study materials prepared by Total Seminars, a company with experience helping students prepare for the A+ certification and other important certification tests. 

The Basics of the A+ Examination

The A+ examination addresses the broad, basic knowledge that anyone seeking a career as a computer technician or support expert needs to master before working in the field. The CompTIA A+ certification examination was last updated in 2012, and the version currently administered includes sections 220-801 and 220-802. Each section of the test contains around 90 questions and must be completed in 90 minutes or less. The questions are multiple-choice and include a wide range of topics on computer hardware, current software applications, networking, maintenance, problem assessment and repair. In addition to covering standard personal computers and laptops, peripheral and remote devices, such as printers, smartphones and gaming modules, are also incorporated into the examination. The current version of the test also includes performance-based simulations that are designed to directly measure a test-takers hands-on knowledge and skill. 

Self-Study vs. Prepared Study Materials

An individual with extensive computer experience may feel that it is not necessary to formally prepare for the A+ examination, but test-takers who prepare adequately have a better chance of passing than those who walk into the test without studying. A student who prepares for the test independently must take the time to gather a variety of resources, while a prospective A+ certification examinee who purchases a pre-assembled package of study materials already has everything at his or her fingertips to prepare for the test. The A+ exam is also updated from time to time, making it important to ensure that the study materials used to prepare are in-line with the most up-to-date version of the test. 

A+ Examination Material from Total Seminars

Total Seminars provides a range of exam materials focused specifically on the current A+ certification exam. The materials include a comprehensive training and preparation study manual. The same subject matter is also offered in a video format hosted by computer expert Mike Meyers. Separate study guides targeted at different exam topics may also be purchased. Sample examination packages that include multiple copies of practice tests and answers that are similar in format to the actual exam are also available. Total Seminars also sells exam vouchers that are required to be admitted to take the examination at one of the many certified testing locations around the country. These items may be purchased as individual components or in bundles that include combinations of two or more of the above items. 

While ordering and studying the materials from Total Seminars does not guarantee successful completion of the A+ examination, the study packages designed by Total Seminars will inform an examinee about the format of the test and the information covered, thus allowing the test-taker to thoroughly prepare before attempting the test. If you are planning to take the A+ certification examination to launch your career as a computer repair and maintenance professional or IT specialist, or if you are looking to advance in an already-established career, check out the assortment of A+ certification study and preparation materials offered by Total Seminars today.