ST: Computer Industry Careers
Hardware
Hardware is the physical aspect of computers, telecommunications, and other information technology devices. Hardware includes not only the computer proper but also the cables, connectors, power supply units, and peripheral devices such as the keyboard, mouse, audio speakers, and printers. Hardware careers include three main areas, such as Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Technicians.
These areas of technical work includes a number of different job titles:
Electronics Technician - a general term for technicians involved in hands-on maintenance of computer and electronic equipment.
Service Technician - a computer repair technician usually employed by a computer equipment manufacturer.
Technical Analyst - a computer maintenance and repair technician who maintains computer equipment for an organization and its employees (but not in a customer service capacity).
Service technicians and technical analysts perform computer maintenance and repair. Some specialize in large mainframes while others work as microcomputer (PC) specialists. In either case, their responsibilities include:
- Installation of computers and peripheral devices (printers, drives, etc.).
- Performance of routine maintenance procedures.
- Diagnostics (figuring out what is wrong with a computer or peripheral) and repair.
To be effective in this job, it's important to know both hardware and software (system software, especially). Often, in the case of microcomputers, problematic behavior is caused by software glitches and not by malfunctioning hardware. Today, it is also increasingly important to know about networks as well.
While the two job titles of service technician and technical analyst are closely related, there are important differences between them. Service technicians work for the manufacturers of computer goods where they provide technical support and repair service to customers. Technical analysts, on the other hand, work for large organizations such as hospitals, universities, and large corporations, where the daily functioning of the organization requires heavy use of computers. Technical analysts serve the user community in the organization by keeping computers up and running, troubleshooting problems, installing new software, managing computer supplies and parts, and the like.
Technicians who work in the field of computer installation, maintenance, and repair require specialized training, both initially and ongoing. A college degree isn't necessary, however. Training can usually be obtained through vocational schools, 2-year community colleges, and product training seminars. Salaries range from $26,000 to $84,000 annually.
Some useful links for more information include: