CSN105 - Introduction to Computers and Networks
Semester | |
School | |
Last revision date | Jan 27, 2025 1:10:17 AM |
Last review date | Mar 17, 2025 12:15:15 AM |
Subject Title
Introduction to Computers and Networks
Subject Description
This course provides an introduction to computer functions and foundational networking concepts. Through engaging, activity-based learning, students will delve into the interactions between computers, operating systems, and networking components. They will investigate the roles of various computers and networking devices, learning how to configure and deploy these systems for optimal operation and connectivity. Throughout the course, students will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enhancing their troubleshooting abilities.
Credit Status
1 credit
Required for CTY – Computer Systems Technology (Ontario College Advanced Diploma)
Required for CNS – Computer Networking and Technical Support (Ontario College Diploma
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:
1. Identify and describe computer hardware components to troubleshoot technical problems with computer systems.
2. Compare and contrast computer hardware components to install and replace computer system components.
3. Evaluate computer hardware components to recommend an appropriate computer system configuration within a
computing environment.
4. Recognize and explain networking terminology to support the maintenance of an existing network infrastructure.
5. Identify and apply the appropriate networking tools to diagnose and troubleshoot network connectivity.
6. Construct a working LAN model to support the implementation and configuration of a network infrastructure.
Essential Employability Skills
• Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfils the purpose and meets the needs of the audience.
• Respond to written, spoken, or visual messages in a manner that ensures effective communication.
• Apply a systematic approach to solve problems.
• Use a variety of thinking skills to anticipate and solve problems.
• Locate, select, organize, and document information using appropriate technology and information systems.
• Analyze, evaluate, and apply relevant information from a variety of sources.
• Show respect for diverse opinions, values, belief systems, and contributions of others.
• Interact with others in groups or teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.
• Manage the use of time and other resources to complete projects.
• Take responsibility for one's own actions, decisions, and consequences.
Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).
Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.
Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.
Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.
Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.
Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.
By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.
Topic Outline
Types of computers
o Form factors
o Computer components
· Motherboard
o Chipset
o Socket
o Memory and expansion slots
o Connectors and ports
o BIOS and UEFI
o POST
· Central Processing Unit (CPU)
o RISC and CISC instruction sets
o Processor architectures
o Multicore processors
o Multithreading
· Computer Memory
o ROM and RAM
o SRAM and DRAM
o Error checking
· Storage Devices
o Internal and external
o Form factors
o Interfaces
o Partitioning
o RAID systems
· Video Cards
o Dedicated and integrated
o Bus standards
o Output interfaces
o Resolutions
· Power Supplies
o AC and DC
o Types of connectors
· Operating System
o 32-bit and 64-bit
o Image installation
o User and group management
o GUI and CLI management
o Securing access
· Device Management
o System information
o Device drivers
o Device manager
· Number Systems
o Decimal, Binary, Octal, Hexadecimal
o Converting between number systems
· Introduction to Computer Networks
o Types of networks
o Network topology
o Connection types
o Transmission types
· Networking Hardware
o Network Devices
o Cable types
o Network protocols
· Network Concept Models
o TCP/IP model
o OSI model
· Physical and logical addressing
o MAC addressing
o IP addressing
o Classes of IP addresses
o Reserved and private IP address
· Subnetting
o Subnet mask
o Network and broadcast addresses
o Classful and classless addressing
o CIDR and VLSM
· Routing
o Static and dynamic
o Routing protocols
Prescribed Texts
Required Materials
PC Building Simulator
A Raspberry PI version 4 device
To find out the cost of books and learning material go here.
Any courses not listed on the bookstore webpage do not require any resources for purchase. All resources will be provided by your instructor.
Reference Material
Online Resources
Required Supplies
Required Software:
· PC Building Simulator: Education Edition
Required Hardware:
· Raspberry Pi 2 or higher
Student Progression and Promotion Policy
http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/student-progression-and-promotion-policy.html
Grading Policyhttp://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/grading-policy.html)
A+ | 90% to 100% |
A | 80% to 89% |
B+ | 75% to 79% |
B | 70% to 74% |
C+ | 65% to 69% |
C | 60% to 64% |
D+ | 55% to 59% |
D | 50% to 54% |
F | 0% to 49% (Not a Pass) |
OR | |
EXC | Excellent |
SAT | Satisfactory |
UNSAT | Unsatisfactory |
For further information, see a copy of the Academic Policy, available online (http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academics-and-student-services.html) or at Seneca's Registrar's Offices.(http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/registrar/gpacalulator.html)
Modes of Evaluation
Assignments (minimum of 2) |
15% |
Labs (minimum of 5) |
50% |
Class Activity |
5% |
Lab Tests (minimum of 2) |
15% |
Written Tests (minimum of 2) |
15% |
****Students must obtain a passing mark of 50% on the final test (Test 2 – Theory and Lab) as well as a cumulative grade of 50% or better in the subject in order to pass the class****