Careers in Computer and GSM Repairs – JSS3 Computer Hardware & GSM Repair Lesson Note (First Term)

Computer and GSM maintenance is the work of finding and fixing faults in computers and mobile phones.

Behavioural objectives

1. State the full meaning of GSM.
2. Name the three main careers in computer and GSM repairs.
3. Describe the work, training and tools of a technician, an engineer and an entrepreneur.
4. Compare the three careers in a table.
5. List the qualities of a good repair professional.
6. State basic safety rules for repair work.

What is GSM?

GSM stands for Global System for Mobile Communications.

• Use: it is the technology that lets a mobile phone connect to a network to make calls and use the internet.
• Nigerian examples: networks such as MTN, Airtel and Glo.
• GSM repair: fixing faults in mobile phones, such as cracked screens and faulty charging ports.
• Computer repair: fixing faults in desktops and laptops, such as a laptop that will not come on.

Why should we study computer and GSM repairs?

We study it because almost everyone uses a phone or a computer, and these devices sometimes break.

1. Job creation: you can start your own shop and employ other people.
2. Self-reliance: you can fix your own gadgets and save money.
3. High demand: millions of phones and computers in Nigeria need maintenance.
4. Steady work: as long as people use gadgets, they will need people to fix them.

What are the common faults in phones and computers?

There are two kinds of fault: hardware faults and software faults.

Hardware faults

• Definition: a hardware fault is a problem with a physical part of the device.
• Cracked screen: the display is broken and must be replaced.
• Faulty charging port: the device does not charge properly.
• Weak battery: the device switches off quickly.

Software faults

• Definition: a software fault is a problem with the programs that run the device.
• Virus: harmful software slows down or damages the device.
• Hanging: the device freezes and stops responding.
• Missing or faulty programs: the technician installs software such as WhatsApp or Windows.

What are the main careers in computer and GSM repairs?

There are three main careers: technician, engineer and entrepreneur.

People play different roles based on their level of education and skill.

1. Who is a computer or GSM technician?

A technician is a hands-on worker who repairs everyday faults in computers and phones.

• Comparison: a technician is like a “doctor” for gadgets.
• What they do: replace broken screens, fix charging ports, change batteries and install software.
• Training: practical apprenticeship or technical college.
• Tools: screwdrivers, soldering irons and multimeters.

2. Who is a computer or GSM engineer?

An engineer is a professional who understands how a device is built and designs its parts.

• Comparison: an engineer is like an “architect” for gadgets.
• What they do: design the internal circuits of phones and computers.
• Hard repairs: they solve complex problems, such as motherboard faults, that technicians may find too difficult.
• Training: usually a university degree (B.Sc or B.Eng) in Computer Engineering or Electronics.

3. Who is an entrepreneur?

An entrepreneur is a person who starts and runs a business to make a profit.

• What they do: open repair centres, hire technicians and sell spare parts such as chargers, batteries and screens.
• Management: they handle the money and the customers.
• Goal: to provide a service and make a profit.
• Skill: they do not need to hold the screwdriver themselves.
• Example: an owner of a big shop at Computer Village (Lagos) or Farm Centre (Kano) where many people come to fix phones.

What is the difference between a technician, an engineer and an entrepreneur?

A technician fixes faults, an engineer designs and handles complex repairs, and an entrepreneur runs the business.

What tools do repairers use?

Repairers use simple hand tools and testing tools to open devices and find faults.

• Screwdrivers: open the casing of phones and laptops.
• Soldering iron: melts solder to join or remove small electronic parts.
• Multimeter: measures voltage and checks whether a circuit is working.
• Tweezers: hold very small parts.
• Anti-static wrist strap: protects computer parts from static electricity.

What are the steps in repairing a faulty device?

A repair follows an ordered process from the customer’s complaint to the return of the device.

1. Listen to the customer and note the complaint.
2. Inspect the device and find the fault.
3. Tell the customer the fault and the cost.
4. Repair or replace the faulty part.
5. Test the device to confirm it works.
6. Return the device and explain what you did.

What are the qualities of a good repair professional?

A good professional has a professional attitude as well as technical skill.

• Patience: some faults are hard to find, so you must be patient to trace the problem.
• Honesty: do not tell a customer you changed a part when you only cleaned it. Trust brings more customers.
• Constant learning: new phone models come out regularly, so a good technician keeps learning how to fix them.
• Safety consciousness: always follow safety rules to avoid electric shock and injury.
• Good customer care: speak politely and respect the customer’s private data.

What are the basic safety rules in repair work?

Safety rules protect the repairer and the device from harm.

1. Switch off and unplug the device before opening it.
2. Keep water and other liquids away from the work table.
3. Place a hot soldering iron on its stand when not in use.
4. Use an anti-static wrist strap when handling computer boards.
5. Keep the work area tidy and well lit.

Evaluation

1. What is the full meaning of GSM?
2. Mention two differences between a technician and an engineer.
3. If you open a shop and sell phone chargers, which of the three careers are you practising?
4. List two qualities you must have to be a successful repairer.

Assignment

Choose one of the three careers. Write five points on its work, training and tools, and give two reasons why you would or would not choose it.