Summary

Chapter 11: Advanced Personal Computers 3If you are a remote technician, you might work at a help desk answering calls or e-mailsfrom customers who have computer problems. You create work orders and communicatewith the customer to try to diagnose and repair the problem.Good communication skills are valuable because the customer must clearly understand yourquestions and instructions. Some help desks use software to connect directly to a customer’scomputer to fix the problem. As a remote technician, you can work on a team of help desktechnicians for an organization or from home.As a bench technician, you typically would not work directly with customers. Bench techniciansare often hired to perform computer warranty service in a central depot or work facility.Worksheet 11.1.0: Job OpportunitiesIn this worksheet, you research computer-related jobs. Refer to the worksheet in ITEssentials: PC Hardware and Software Labs and Study Guide, Third Edition (ISBN 1-58713-198-6). You can perform this worksheet now or wait until the end of the chapter.Explain Safe Lab Procedures and Tool UseSafety should always be your priority on a job or in the lab. As a computer technician, youshould be aware of the many workplace hazards, and you should take the necessary precautionsto avoid them.You should try to practice safety in the lab so that it becomes part of your regular routine.Follow all safety procedures and use the correct tools for the job. This policy will help preventpersonal injury and damage to equipment.To accomplish a safe working environment, it is better to be proactive rather than reactive.Here is a list of safety rules to help you maintain a safe working environment:■■■■■■■■Keep the work area clean and free of clutter.Keep food and drinks out of the work area.Never open a computer monitor unless you have been properly trained.Remove all your jewelry and watches.Make sure that the power is off and that the power plug has been removed.Do not look into the laser beams located in the computer equipment.Make sure that there is a fire extinguisher and first aid kit available.Cover sharp edges with tape when working inside the computer case.