Core Hardware — CPUs & Memory

This course is part of CompTIA A+ Core 1 Specialization

Instructors: Mike Meyers

Included with

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6 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Beginner level

Recommended experience

5 hours to complete

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

6 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Beginner level

Recommended experience

5 hours to complete

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

How to identify and install CPUs including socket types, cooling solutions, and processor specifications for Intel and AMD platforms
How to select, install, and configure RAM modules based on system requirements, form factors, and speed specifications
How to apply safe handling procedures including ESD precautions, tool usage, and professional workplace practices required for IT technician roles

Skills you'll gain

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

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Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the CompTIA A+ Core 1 Specialization

When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.

Learn new concepts from industry experts
Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 6 modules in this course

This course launches the CompTIA A+ Core 1 Specialization by building the foundational hardware knowledge every IT technician must have. Covering approximately 4 hours of expert instruction across the A+ exam overview, safety and professionalism, CPUs, and memory, learners develop the skills to work confidently inside any desktop or workstation.

Learners benefit by gaining hands-on understanding of how processors are selected and installed, how RAM is identified and configured, and how safety procedures protect both the technician and the equipment. Online labs reinforce CPU identification, RAM installation, and component handling. This course provides the physical foundation on which all subsequent IT skills are built. By the end of this course, learners will be able to identify, install, and handle core PC components safely in a professional IT support context.

This chapter introduces the promotional and instructional content for CompTIA A+ (

What's included

9 videos

This chapter explains the essential technician tools and outlines the CompTIA A+ troubleshooting workflow used to systematically diagnose and resolve computer issues.

What's included

2 videos1 reading1 assignment2 plugins

This chapter introduces the fundamental parts and functions of a computer, guiding you through core PC components, common peripherals, and how these devices fit into everyday computing.

What's included

3 videos1 reading1 assignment1 plugin

This chapter explores every essential aspect of the CPU—from its core functions and modern features to 32‑ vs 64‑bit standards, model naming, selection, heat management, and proper installation.

What's included

8 videos1 reading1 assignment1 plugin

8 videosTotal 55 minutes

What Is a CPU?15 minutes
Modern CPUs10 minutes
32-Bit vs. 64-Bit Computing4 minutes
Choosing the Right CPU5 minutes
CPU Generations and Architecture5 minutes
CPU Cooling6 minutes
Installing and Troubleshooting a CPU7 minutes
What is CPU-Z? (Show)3 minutes

1 readingTotal 5 minutes

Computer Processors Slide Handout5 minutes

1 assignmentTotal 6 minutes

Computer Processors Assignment6 minutes

1 pluginTotal 5 minutes

What is CPU-Z (Click-through)5 minutes

This chapter explains the key types and characteristics of DRAM, how memory capacity and configurations affect system performance, and how to install, upgrade, and troubleshoot RAM effectively.

What's included

6 videos1 reading1 assignment1 plugin

6 videosTotal 43 minutes

RAM Technology10 minutes
RAM Capacity8 minutes
RAM Features7 minutes
Virtual Memory6 minutes
Installing and Troubleshooting RAM11 minutes
CPU-Z and RAM (Show)2 minutes

1 readingTotal 5 minutes

RAM Essentials Slide Handout5 minutes

1 assignmentTotal 14 minutes

RAM Essentials Assignment14 minutes

1 pluginTotal 5 minutes

CPU-Z and RAM (Click-Through)5 minutes

What's included

1 assignment

Earn a career certificate

Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.

Instructors

Mike Meyers

Total Seminars

14 Courses113 learners

Dakota Snow

Total Seminars

6 Courses20 learners

Offered by

Total Seminars

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Foundations of IT and Core Hardware Components
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Core Hardware — System Components & Storage
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IT Fundamentals and Hardware Essentials
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CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)
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Frequently asked questions

To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.

When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.

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Core Hardware — CPUs & Memory

Core Hardware — CPUs & Memory

What you'll learn

Skills you'll gain

Details to know

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

Build your subject-matter expertise

There are 6 modules in this course

All about the CompTIA A+

What's included

Safety and Professionalism

What's included

Introduction to Computers and Operating Systems

What's included

Computer Processors

What's included

RAM Essentials

What's included

Course Assignment

What's included

Earn a career certificate

Instructors

Offered by

Explore more from Support and Operations

Foundations of IT and Core Hardware Components

Core Hardware — System Components & Storage

IT Fundamentals and Hardware Essentials

CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)

Why people choose Coursera for their career

Felipe M.

Jennifer J.

Larry W.

Chaitanya A.

Unlock access to 10,000+ courses with a subscription

Advance your career with an online degree

Join over 4,700 global companies that choose Coursera for Business

Frequently asked questions

When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?

What will I get if I subscribe to this Specialization?

Is financial aid available?

More questions