220-1201 Mobile Devices Study Guide for the CompTIA A+ Core Series Exam

General Information

The purpose of assessing your knowledge and skills in this area is to be sure you know how to configure and install all types of mobile devices, including, but not limited to, laptops. This does not stop after the installation and configuration have been completed, however. You must also be able to ensure continued connectivity for the end-users. Approximately 13% of the questions on the CompTIA A+ Core Series 1201 test pertain to mobile device concepts, with approximately 66% of these questions beginning with a scenario.

Monitoring Hardware for Mobile Devices

You must be able to monitor, remove, install, and configure the hardware and components of mobile devices when presented with a scenario. Hardware/device replacement in mobile devices differs from desktop replacements. Space comes at a premium, and the correct tools should be used to disassemble and reassemble mobile devices and their components. Be aware of the main techniques and tools used to replace components. Always check manufacturer documentation before attempting to replace hardware or a component.

Battery

Laptop battery chemistry is most commonly nickel-cadmium (NiCd), lithium-ion (Li-ion), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), or lithium-polymer (Li-poly). Battery replacement compatibility is dependent on the specifications of the device. Replacement batteries must have the same battery chemistry (with the exception of Li-ion and Li-poly, which may be cross-compatible in specific instances) and voltage for proper compatibility. When replacing a battery, determine if it is external or internal first. If the battery is external, remove the battery pack and replace it with a new one. If the battery is internal, remove the bottom cover, locate the battery, disconnect it from the motherboard, and remove any screws holding it in place, then remove the old battery, insert the new battery, and replace the screws and back cover.

Keyboard

The keyboard on a laptop is typically smaller than a traditional desktop keyboard. Laptop keyboards are located in the lower portion of the clamshell. They can be simple to remove for access to the peripherals below, or the process can be more involved, entailing the removal of numerous components to access the keyboard. Many laptops also have individual keycaps that can be replaced as needed if the mechanism below is still functional.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

The industry-standard form factor for RAM in laptops is the small outline dual in-line memory module (SODIMM). When replacing a SODIMM, ensure that the SODIMM is compatible with the motherboard. SODIMMs utilized in modern laptops are most commonly 204-pin DDR3, 260-pin DDR4, or 262-pin DDR5, and they can have 32-bit or 64-bit configurations. The RAM is located in the bottom of the clamshell.

Drives

Laptops may use either a hard disk drive (HDD), which is more common on older laptops, or a solid state drive (SSD) to store data internally. HDDs and SSDs for laptops come in three possible form factors: 2.5”, 1.8”, or M.2. Most laptops have a single cable connecting the drive to the laptop, providing both data and power to the drive. The drive will be located in the bottom of the clamshell. Remove the bottom cover, locate the drive, remove any screws (between one and four, typically), disconnect the Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) cable, and replace the drive.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

An HDD is a storage device that uses a rotating magnetic disc to store data. HDDs offer larger storage capacities at a lower price point but tend to be slower than SSDs and are more prone to physical damage due to the moving components.

Retrieved from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:2019_Rozebrane_dyski_twarde.jpg

Solid-State Drive (SSD)

An SSD is a storage device that uses flash memory to store data on a memory chip, increasing drive speed and reducing susceptibility to physical damage. Most modern laptops use an SSD as the primary storage drive due to its smaller size, higher speeds, and increased storage capacity.

Retrieved from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MSATA_SATA_M.2_NVMeSSD.jpg

Retrieved from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:MSATA_SSD_vs._2.5%22_SATA_drive.JPG

Wireless Cards

The wireless network interface card (NIC) allows for wireless communication between the laptop and wireless access points. The internal wireless NIC is located in the bottom of the clamshell. Removing the NIC requires taking the bottom cover off, removing the screw holding the NIC in place, disconnecting the two antenna wires, and pulling it straight out of the M.2 socket. Replacing the NIC simply involves reversing the procedure. A wireless NIC can also be attached externally most commonly using a USB adapter.

Retrieved from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:RouterBoard_R52_miniPCI_Wi-Fi_card_with_U.FL-RSMA_pigtail.jpg

Physical Privacy and Security

Physical privacy and security components are designed to prevent the loss of information through physical means such as shoulder surfing or theft.

Biometrics

Biometrics is the use of a physical body part to enhance security. Commonly used biometrics are facial recognition or, with older models, a fingerprint scanner. Biometrics can also be added to a laptop as a peripheral device via a USB port.

Near-Field Scanner

Near-field communication (NFC) is a wireless communication method that sends signals between compatible devices in close proximity to another NFC-compatible device. NFC scanners are often used for wireless payments and can be intercepted by malicious devices in close proximity. Be aware of your surroundings and suspicious electronic devices when using NFC.

Wi-Fi Connector

Almost all laptops today include 802.11, or wireless, functionality. The Wi-Fi antenna is generally located in the top of the clamshell case to place the antenna higher up for better signal reception. The antenna will be connected to the motherboard by a wire running from the top of the clamshell, through the hinge, and into the bottom of the clamshell to the motherboard.

Camera/Webcam

The most common placement for a webcam or camera is in the center at the top of the clamshell above the display. Most laptops also include a built-in light next to the webcam to illuminate the user.

Retrieved from: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sony_Vaio_Series_Webcam_Camera_NAMTAI_SCM2S95_N8284S01-4588.jpg

Microphone

The microphone can be placed either next to the webcam and light in the top of the clamshell, or in the bottom of the clamshell, depending on the model of the laptop.